In many parts of the world , personal influence is essential in achieving success. This is not true in the United States, where success usually results from hard work , education, skill, and personal initiative , America is truly a　"do-it-yourself" society ; success is not dependent on family　origins or　the help of an influential person . Personal progress is the result of individual effort.

　　　　Because effort and initiative are so important in America , there are many customs that may be different from　 those　 practiced in other countries. For example , it is not considered dishonorable to quit a job, even if you have had it for only a short time . Moving from job-to -job , or "job-hopping ", as it is called , is quite acceptable in the United States. Frequently , the opportunity　to change jobs offers workers a chance to move up to a better position. Americans like to move from place to place trying new jobs, meeting new people　and living in different parts of the country. "Job-hopping" also gives employers a chance to benefit from the new ideas and skills that　different people bring to their jobs even if such　people are employed for only a short time.

Excerpted　from " A Guide to U.S.A. ", edited by Li Yang, Li Yi, published by Foreign Language　Teaching and Research Press.

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