The Worst Things About Living in Israel

Israel is a small country located in the Middle East which is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the west. On all other sides, Israel is surrounded by other countries.

Important Fact: Israel is a Jewish Country. Meaning, it is meant for Jewish people to live here.

Connected Fact: All of the countries surrounding Israel are Muslim countries.

Unconnected Fact: I am not from Israel. I am from Los Angeles and nether Jewish or Muslim… or Christian.

Lets get into it.

While Israel has many positive qualities such as a rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and technological innovation, there are also some challenges that come with living in the country. In this article, we will discuss what I consider to be some of the worst things about living in Israel.

1. Wars

Israel has been in a state of conflict with its neighboring countries for decades, which can lead to security concerns for its citizens. The country has faced terrorism and military conflicts that have resulted in many deaths and injuries.

It is not uncommon to see security checkpoints throughout the country, and citizens must always be aware of their surroundings.

2. High Cost of Living

The cost of living in Israel is relatively high, especially in cities like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Rent, food, and transportation expenses can quickly add up, and salaries are not always commensurate with the high cost of living.

This can make it challenging to make ends meet, particularly for those with lower incomes.

3. Bureaucracy

Bureaucracy can be a challenge for anyone living in Israel. Whether it’s dealing with government agencies or private companies, the process can often be slow, frustrating, and confusing. Obtaining visas, registering for healthcare, and opening a bank account can all be time-consuming and stressful experiences.

4. Religious Tensions

Israel is home to several different religious groups, and tensions can arise between them. The country has a Jewish majority, but there are also significant Muslim and Christian populations.

This can lead to conflicts over religious sites and practices, and discrimination against minorities is not unheard of.

5. Traffic and Transportation

Traffic in Israel can be chaotic and frustrating, particularly during rush hour. Public transportation is available, but it can be unreliable and overcrowded, and some areas may not be well-served.

Additionally, many Israelis rely on cars to get around, which can contribute to traffic congestion and air pollution. Basically, traffic in central Israel (Tel Aviv) is a real pain in the ass!

6. Language Barriers

While Hebrew is the official language of Israel, many Israelis speak English as a second language. However, there are still many situations where a lack of Hebrew language skills can be a significant barrier, particularly in government offices and smaller towns.

Clearly, this can make it challenging to navigate daily life and access services. Good news is that most of the people in Israel do speak English. So you should be able to get by if you know English.

7. Extreme Weather

Israel’s climate can be challenging, with hot and humid summers and cool and rainy winters. For example, in some parts of the country, temperatures can reach well over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months, making outdoor activities uncomfortable or even dangerous.

The winter can also bring heavy rains and occasional snowfall, which can cause transportation disruptions and flooding.

8. Limited Resources

Israel is a small country with limited natural resources, which can lead to challenges in meeting the needs of its growing population. For example, the country is highly dependent on imported oil and gas, which can be subject to price fluctuations and supply disruptions.

See, I remember the day I arrived in Israel I had NO money – NO friends – and NO job.

Let’s get into it, and let me start at the beginning.

About seven years ago (and after 15+ years of soul-searching), I had a powerful self-realization.

The purpose of my life, was helping other people get what they want from life.

Therefore, with my 15+ years of experience in the field of sales, and customer service I decided to open a sales training company.

At this point, I had a full time job working for a high-tech company so on my day off, I found an accountant. Then I hired him and had him file the proper paperwork to open a sales training company with the government.

I never thought that I would open my own business in Israel… but I did!

I decided to name my sales training company Sales Development Israel. Then, I began to use all of my spare time before work and after work creating training materials, and trying to acquire clients.

In addition, I was sending emails and cold calling companies in Tel Aviv, Herzliya, Ramat Gan, Jerusalem, Bat Yam, and Holon. Basically, I was reaching our across the whole country of Israel during my efforts.

I doing everything in my power to generate momentum in my new business.

Great news is that I was able to find my first few clients!

Something I immediately noticed was at the conclusion of my sales training workshops, two things would happen consistently happen:

Firstly, I would receive feedback that my sales training workshops were providing massive value for the sales team. This meant that the companies were happy with the service I provided, which was nice to know.

Secondly, one or two of the students in the courses would privately approach me.

These students would speak with me about their struggles not only in sales, but also in their lives.

Then one time, a female student offered to pay me for a one-on-one session outside of the office.

She asked me to help her learn how to communicate more effectively, and to help her figure out a better career path. We developed a plan, strategized, and executed.

Another student, approached me and offered to pay me for my time to help prepare him for a job interview.

We developed a plan, strategized, and executed.

Similarly, another student from another workshop, at another company, asked me to help them build their inner-confidence.

This would happen again, and again…

Each of these wonderful people I began to work one-on-one with, had their own unique challenge, and asked me for help. Each time we developed a plan, strategized, and executed.

They knew that I was not professionally trained, and still they would offer to pay me for my time. These first clients would call me their “Life Coach” or “Career Counselor“, and I was able to help them!

At the conclusion of our 3 to 5 one-on-one sessions, they each had taken took massive steps forward towards the results they wanted.

Each time we developed a plan, strategized, and executed successfully!

Eventually, enough people paid me to sit down with them, and then called me their Career Counselor or Life Coach that I began to call myself a “Career Counselor” and ”Life Coach”.

In addition, most people set out to become a trained and certified life coach (קואצ’ר , אימון אישי) or career counselor before ever having a client.

I never once said to myself that I wanted to be a life coach (אימון אישי לחיים) or a career counselor even one time. On the contrary, this beautiful, interesting, and fulfilling profession came directly to me.