In a recent TikTok video, a Cuban woman living in Miami shared her insights on the realities of emigrating to the United States. Her message was directed at Cubans who have already arrived, those in transit, and those considering the move, cautioning them about the misconceptions and unrealistic expectations often associated with life in this country.
"Life in the United States is very different," she began, emphasizing that while the country offers numerous opportunities and benefits, it also demands a significant shift in mindset and lifestyle. "This country has many good things, but it has its challenges. Maybe you're used to a life where you don't have to work hard to pay the bills, like in Cuba."
One of the central points of her message was the importance of hard work and self-reliance. "You can't live on sympathy here in the United States," she declared emphatically. In her view, dignity and success in the U.S. are achieved through consistent effort and the ability to face difficulties without depending on the compassion of others. She illustrated her point by mentioning the many single mothers who "work tirelessly, making 10, 15 beds every day in a hotel, cleaning vomit, cleaning mess," and despite receiving no government aid, strive to support their children.
Dayanis—the TikTok name of the young Cuban mother—stressed that true independence is achieved by leaving behind the mindset of asking for help, which she believes is common in Cuba. "You leave dependency in Cuba, living at the mercy of others—you leave all that behind because this country gives you the opportunity to work," she stated. She emphasized that emigrating with the expectation of constant support from others is a mistake and that "you come to this country to work, to move forward without expecting anything from anyone."
In her remarks, she also criticized the image some people project on social media about life in the United States, an image she believes doesn't always reflect reality. "Don't be swayed by what social media wants to sell you and by what many Cubans are now trying to sell about what life in the United States is like," she warned.
Additionally, she highlighted the possibilities that exist in the country for those willing to work hard. "You can go to work and earn money like we all do here in the United States," she explained.
The video concludes with sincere advice for Cubans planning to emigrate, those on their way, or those who have just arrived: "You come to the United States to work, to get ahead, and the beginnings in this country are very tough, but very tough. The way is not to shout for help, but to ask yourself what you are going to do to help yourself," she said in the post, which has garnered words of praise and approval from many users on the platform.
Emigrating to the United States: Key Insights
For those considering emigrating to the United States, here are some important questions and answers based on the insights shared by Dayanis in her TikTok video:
What is the main message Dayanis shares about living in the United States?
Dayanis emphasizes the importance of hard work and self-reliance, cautioning against the misconception that one can live off sympathy or constant support from others.
Why does Dayanis criticize the portrayal of life in the U.S. on social media?
She believes that social media often presents an unrealistic image of life in the United States, which can mislead those considering emigration.
What advice does Dayanis give to Cubans planning to emigrate to the U.S.?
She advises them to be prepared for hard work and tough beginnings, emphasizing that the key to success is self-reliance and effort, not relying on the help of others.