For the fifth year in a row, Finland ranks at the top of the list of the world’s happiest countries.
Does this mean everything in the country is perfect? Of course not. But there is a strong focus on the mental well-being of residents. Leaders at all levels emphasize the importance of psychological health, burnout prevention, and work-life balance.
I came across an interesting article by Frank Martela (PhD, philosopher, psychological researcher, and lecturer at Aalto University). In it, he reflects on what makes people in Finland happier than in other countries:
- Equality
When the standard of living is high for all citizens, people from different social strata feel protected and can rely on the state's help in difficult situations.
On a more human level, it’s not customary in Finland to "show off." Of course, there are wealthier and less wealthy people, Teslas, and old cars, just like anywhere else. But you won’t see flashy gold Range Rovers or aggressive driving.
Frank writes in the article that in Finland, it’s not common to compare oneself to a neighbor. Finns focus on what makes them happy rather than trying to create an image of success.
Growing up in Russia, I was trained from school to have a strong competitive spirit. Even before moving to Finland, I realized how much this mindset hindered my ability to enjoy life.
On a more human level, it’s not customary in Finland to "show off." Of course, there are wealthier and less wealthy people, Teslas, and old cars, just like anywhere else. But you won’t see flashy gold Range Rovers or aggressive driving.
Frank writes in the article that in Finland, it’s not common to compare oneself to a neighbor. Finns focus on what makes them happy rather than trying to create an image of success.
Growing up in Russia, I was trained from school to have a strong competitive spirit. Even before moving to Finland, I realized how much this mindset hindered my ability to enjoy life.
- Accessibility and Proximity to Nature
According to a study, 87% of Finns consider nature important because it provides them with peace of mind, energy, and relaxation. Pausing to breathe, observing the blooming pines every day on the way to work, and not seeing the hustle and bustle.
Though, to be honest, I didn’t expect Finnish grandmas to walk faster than Moscow residents (don’t try to compete with them!) 😁
Though, to be honest, I didn’t expect Finnish grandmas to walk faster than Moscow residents (don’t try to compete with them!) 😁
- Trust
This was one of the biggest culture shocks for me. Is this really possible? People just trust you. In Russia, you can’t go to any government office without a full set of documents. Here, it’s often enough just to take your word for it.
But please, don’t consider yourself smarter than everyone else and try to be sneaky. If you get caught lying, trust will be lost. If not forever, then for a long time. I sincerely hope that we will be treated as respectable people in this country and not as those who need to be watched closely and expected to deceive.
These are the thoughts the article inspired in me.
I highly recommend reading it.
But please, don’t consider yourself smarter than everyone else and try to be sneaky. If you get caught lying, trust will be lost. If not forever, then for a long time. I sincerely hope that we will be treated as respectable people in this country and not as those who need to be watched closely and expected to deceive.
These are the thoughts the article inspired in me.
I highly recommend reading it.
