A British Perspective on Positivity: Reflections from Houston

Jamie Tulip with BABC Texas Member company, Forth Capital works with clients around the world, many of whom now live and work right here in Texas. On a recent trip to Houston, Jamie shared his reflections on the energy, optimism, and opportunity that define the city—and what he hopes to take back to the UK.

“There are many things I love about being British. I love that we’re cynical, sarcastic, and self-deprecating. We love to complain about everything—from the weather to our politicians.

However, lately, the complaining and cynicism have created an air of doom and gloom that feels stifling. From the cost of living to higher taxes and political division, the negativity is holding Britain back. Some of these issues certainly aren’t unique to the UK.

When I arrive in Houston, though, I’m always struck by the dynamism, friendliness, and can-do attitude that define America. Despite the political polarization here in the US, Houston oozes self-confidence. Rather than seeing the glass as half empty, you get the sense of a place where the glass is overflowing with opportunity.

As I meet with clients, I can’t help but be impressed by what they’ve managed to build for themselves and their families here in Texas. The oil and gas industry has been good to many of them, and it inspires me to work harder and create more for my own family.

Perhaps I’m a bit of a romantic, but I genuinely believe that a positive attitude and an ambitious mindset are a powerful combination. In the UK, you sometimes get the sense that success is a zero-sum game—that one person’s success must come at another’s expense.

But here, working hard and being ambitious are admired. Taking calculated risks and embracing opportunity can change your life.

So, I’ll enjoy the rest of my week here in Houston—meeting clients, completing their annual reviews, and hearing about their plans for 2025. Where have they travelled? How are their children? How are they enjoying the retirements I helped them plan for?

And when I fly home on Friday, I’ll do my best to take some of that ambition and positivity back with me to the UK”. 

Jamie Tulip – Chartered International Financial Planner, Forth Capital