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Being aware of your home country in a global context is one of the key elements of true cross-cultural intelligence.

As a high-functioning political power, the US plays a primary role on the world stage, but sometimes it's important to look past the headlines and attempt to understand national motivations in global affairs, and to look at ways of improving interactions with the rest of the world.

According to leading political analysts, international development workers, journalists and theorists, there are some prevailing myths about the US that should be disposed of. One such myth (one of many outlined in a recent, fascinating and extensive article compiled by Politico Magazine), relates to American philanthropic activities abroad can single-handedly solve the world's problems.

In the article, it is posited that while American charity and technical foreign aid solutions are functional and vital to developing nations, it will take innovative partnerships with local thinkers and organizations on the ground in developing nations in order to come to meaningful and long-lasting solutions. America as a successful leader in a global context does, and should continue to, take a multilateral and cooperative approach to foreign aid -- and international relations in general.

Learning to consistently ask questions and detect prevailing myths is a crucial quality in becoming a keen observer of global affairs. And learning to think about world powers and your home country's foreign policy from an analytical standpoint will be an asset regardless of your professional field of interest.

We suggest taking a look at the article linked above, which paints a complex and fascinating picture of the US in a global context, offering reflections on current policy and possible suggestions for the future. Also check out the MyWorldAbroad articles below for some career-focused inspiration.

Related reading on MyWorldAbroad (for registered users):

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• Political Jobs in the US Government & Congress
• The Four Key International Streams
• NGOs & Their Work Abroad