Right now, the precious things that make us feel happy, secure, and hopeful in the U.S. are being sideswiped by other things that have been filling many of us with uncertainty and fear.
Unbelievable and increasingly shocking as many of the news stories we’ve been barraged with lately have been, these events have shaken us awake to the fact that anyone who cares about our country should take actual steps to protect it – and themselves.
One is to have a Plan A for immediate action to take ASAP as citizens if you are not happy with the direction things appear to be going, politically. For that, we are sharing 10 suggestions from professor, author, lawyer, and political sage and activist Robert Reich.
The other is to have a viable Plan B, and for that we give you a list of the most-recently rated places around the world that you may wish to know about as potential new lands for you and your loved ones to call home that could provide better opportunities for a happier, more secure and peaceful future, if it comes to that.
These are just two ideas. No matter what you decide, it’s always good to have a ready Plan A and a backup Plan B. We hope this post inspires you to take action, however you see fit.
Plan A: Take Real Action
On January 23, Robert Reich posted on his Substack page, “America has deep problems, to be sure. Which is why we can’t give up on it – or give up the fights for social justice, equal political rights, equal opportunity and the rule of law.”
Yesterday, he posted this updated list of 16 action steps that are the most realistic ways we have come across that anyone can do right now to help make things better. Here they are, should you choose to act:
(Need a nudge? Read what people-centered, cause influencer Stacie Ledden posted tonight: “What’s Worth Fighting For”)
Plan B: Research Alternatives
In early January, we received a request to update our previous posts about the top places around the world for Americans to consider relocating or retiring to that might provide better opportunities for a happier lifestyle. As fate would have it, we had already been compiling a list of countries most recently ranked the Best in various categories.
If putting down roots in a new country interests you, then use this list to begin your research.
Most Peaceful Country
ICELAND
Iceland has been lauded as the most peaceful country in the world in 2025 due to its absence of a military, low crime rate, minimal incidences of terrorist acts and violent demonstrations, harmonious relations with neighboring countries, and stable political scene. These factors contribute to a high level of societal safety and security, making Iceland a standout in global peace rankings.
See the other 9 most peaceful countries in the world as ranked by Global Citizen Solutions: https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/most-peaceful-country-in-the-world/#:~:text=1.,'t%20tolerated;%20it's%20celebrated
Happiest Country
FINLAND
Finland has been ranked the happiness capital of the world for the seventh consecutive year in 2025, according to the World Happiness Report. This is attributed to several factors, including a strong social safety net, low corruption, excellent public services, high levels of trust in government, and a strong sense of community. Finns also enjoy a high quality of life, gender equality, and a family-friendly society.
Read about the other happiest countries on the short list at CEO Today: https://www.ceotodaymagazine.com/2025/01/the-10-happiest-countries-in-the-world-for-2025/
Healthiest Country
SPAIN
Spain is considered the healthiest country in 2025 due to its robust public healthcare system and the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. These factors contribute to a high life expectancy and overall well-being for its residents.
See the rest of the top healthiest countries list here: https://economymiddleeast.com/healthiest-countries-in-the-world/
Safest Country
SWITZERLAND
Switzerland is considered one of the safest countries in the world due to its low crime rate, political stability, strong economy, high quality of life, and effective law enforcement. These factors, along with the country's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking safety and tranquility.
Checkout the full list at Global Citizen Solutions here: https://www.globalcitizensolutions.com/ten-safest-countries-in-the-world/
Least Corrupt Country
SWITZERLAND
Switzerland is considered one of the least corrupt countries in 2025 due to its strong institutional integrity, transparency, and robust legal framework.
Read the full list here from U.S. News & World Report: https://www.usnews.com/news/best-countries/rankings/least-corrupt
Most Welcoming Country
IRELAND
Ireland is considered one of the most welcoming countries for expats due to its friendly attitude, warm hospitality, and strong community spirit. It is also one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
See the full list here from IAS Services: https://iasservices.org.uk/the-9-best-countries-for-americans-to-move-to/
Best Country for Retirees
SPAIN (Valencia)
Valencia, Spain, is considered a top choice for retirees in 2025 because of its excellent healthcare system, affordable living, and endless leisure opportunities.
Read the full list here from USA Today: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2025/01/25/best-destination-to-retire-abroad-overseas/77931773007/
Most Democratic Country
NORWAY
According to the Democracy Index 2025, Norway is ranked as the most democratic country in the world. Norway consistently scores high in categories such as civil liberties, electoral process, and political participation, making it a standout example of a full democracy.
Read the full list here from World Population Review: https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/democracy-countries
Best Year-Round Climate
SPAIN (Canary Islands)
Though “best weather” can mean quite different things to different people, the Canary Islands are widely considered to have the best year-round climate. In fact, the Island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands group, is known as the “Island of Eternal Spring” and boasts an average temperature of 75-degrees F, and 3,000 hours of sunlight per year.
Ecuador, Italy, Brazil, and Colombia also top various lists for countries with the best weather conditions.
Best Country for Digital Nomads
COSTA RICA
Costa Rica is considered one of the best places for digital nomads due to its beautiful natural landscapes, a welcoming culture, a dedicated digital nomad visa with tax benefits, reliable internet access, a high quality of life, and the opportunity to easily balance work with outdoor activities and leisure pursuits, all encapsulated by the "Pura Vida" lifestyle.
Read the full list here from Go Overseas: https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/best-countries-digital-nomads
Do your homework…
Before making any big move, gather as much updated information as possible on any location’s expat requirements, citizenship, culture, political standing, climate, cost of living, banking and finances, healthcare availability, etc.
InternationalCitizens.com is a great resource to consult to find out exactly how one emigrates legally from the U.S. to other countries like Mexico, Great Britain, or China, for work or to retire, or simply start a new way of life.
Photo: Protesters gather outside the Massachusetts State House to rally against Trump on Feb. 5. Photo: David L. Ryan/The Boston Globe via Getty Images.
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