At the Finnish Happiness Institute, our mission is to promote happiness – in Finland and around the world. That’s why we are truly happy and grateful to have contributed to two inspiring articles by Business Finland, highlighting the unique nature and value of Finnish happiness.
The article “Why is Finland the happiest country in the world – for the 7th time?” explores the reasons behind Finland’s seven-year streak as the world’s happiest country. For us, it’s important to look beyond rankings and statistics, and focus on the values, everyday choices, and social trust that lie at the heart of true happiness.
Once again, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world. This often sparks a sense of bewilderment among Finns: “How can that be? We don’t feel particularly happy all the time!” For many Finns, the word “happiness” feels grand and intense, something not used lightly. Instead, we are more accustomed to expressing contentment in the small joys of everyday life.
When we talk about happiness, many Finns first think of life satisfaction – and that is something most of us can very well relate to. Happiness is often seen as an ongoing sense of stability, stemming from a well-functioning society, low corruption, and social security – factors that are emphasized in the World Happiness Report. We don’t necessarily need to be beaming with joy at all times to be happy. Instead, many Finns experience balance and a sense of control in their daily lives, which lays the foundation for a pragmatic form of happiness.
Finnish well-being is largely based on the fact that the basics are in place. Nature is close, education is of high quality, and healthcare is accessible. We can trust that our society will support us when needed. These elements create a sense of security that allows for a good life without constant worry about survival. Perhaps Finnish happiness is not about exuberant celebrations, but rather about deeply rooted contentment and stability that carries us through life.
There is an old Finnish saying: “He who has happiness should hide it.” However, modern research suggests this idea is outdated. According to Nicholas Christakis’ studies, happiness is not just an individual experience – it spreads through social networks up to three degrees of separation. Your happiness influences those around you, who then pass it on to others. Happiness is not something to keep hidden; instead, it should be shared and allowed to ripple outward.
Maybe it’s time for us to acknowledge that happiness can look different in Finland than elsewhere – it is about the quiet satisfaction found in everyday moments and a sense of security. Happiness does not have to mean constant joy; it can also be peace, purpose, and balance. Let’s be proud of how this manifests in our lives, and perhaps we can start using the word “happiness” a bit more boldly.
We are often asked about the secrets of Finnish happiness. This week, we explored this topic with a Californian journalist curious about the core pillars of happiness among Finnish women.
Finnish women are renowned for their resilience and deep connection to nature. In a culture where the welfare state, gender equality, and a profound bond with natural forces set the foundation for happiness, how do these elements shape their lives? And what can we learn from their experiences?
Nature and its impact on well-being
Nature is an integral part of Finnish culture and women’s daily lives. Forests, lakes, and tranquil landscapes offer a place to relax, recover, and recharge. Researcher Elisabet Lahti describes Finnish women’s unique strength as deeply rooted in their connection to nature:
“Nature brings us back to the cycle of life, where everything renews itself. Finnish women’s inner strength and resilience are embodied in nature – we are berry-pickers, forest wanderers, and ice-swimming powerhouses.”
Nature is not merely an escape from daily stress; it serves as therapy, a source of creativity, and inspiration. Activities like forest walks, sauna sessions, and ice swimming are part of many Finnish women’s daily wellness routines. Nature’s cycles offer comfort and a reminder of life’s constant renewal – even in adversity, new beginnings are always possible.
Seasonal changes are also deeply ingrained in Finnish identity, influencing women’s lives significantly. While the dark winter can be challenging, the bright summer nights bring energy and inspiration. Finnish women excel at adapting to the rhythm of the seasons, finding joy in every part of the year.
Societal support and equality
The Finnish welfare state provides a solid foundation for women’s quality of life and happiness. Free education, parental leave, and comprehensive healthcare enable women to pursue their dreams without significant financial barriers. Gender equality has advanced substantially in Finland, with women actively participating in both the workforce and societal decision-making.
Advisor Marika Savukoski, Director of Education in Kuopio, emphasizes the importance of life circumstances—work, income, quality of life, family, and relationships—for happiness:
“As a leader, I prioritize recognizing these factors and finding ways to support employees both in work and life overall.”
In Finland, equality is not just a topic for speeches but a daily reality, providing women with opportunities for independence and well-being. These achievements reflect Finnish women’s overall satisfaction with life.
Work-life balance
Work-life researcher Jari Hakanen highlights that women often report higher levels of stress and burnout than men but also experience greater positive well-being at work. This phenomenon, called work engagement, is described as “a positive, energizing, and motivating relationship with one’s work, almost like a ‘positive symptom.’”
Finnish society supports women in balancing work and family life with flexible parental leave and remote work opportunities. As a result, women can actively engage in professional life while caring for their families and prioritizing their own well-being.
Sauna culture and wellness
For Finns, the sauna is a sacred space for relaxation and stress relief. Its warmth, silence, and focus on the present moment create a unique environment for recovery. Sauna sessions are often paired with other wellness practices like spending time in nature or ice swimming, making it a holistic experience.
The sauna culture is an intriguing and exotic topic for international audiences. Finnish women’s way of incorporating sauna into their daily lives illustrates their ability to blend tradition with modern well-being.
Sustainable lifestyle
Finnish women value simplicity and eco-friendly choices. Responsibility and sustainability are integral to daily life, with many actively participating in combating climate change through recycling and supporting local production.
Community and relationships
Though Finns are often perceived as introverted, close personal relationships are central to happiness. Finnish women value deep and authentic connections that enhance their well-being. Community engagement, whether through neighborhoods or hobby groups, provides opportunities to share experiences and strengthen a sense of belonging.
Finnish women are resilient, nature-connected, and community-oriented individuals whose lifestyles seamlessly combine tradition and modern wellness practices. Their experiences offer valuable lessons on how to live a meaningful and happy life. In Finland, nature, equality, and community form a unique foundation for happiness – a model from which we can all learn.
If you would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us!
Finns and the forest are inseparably connected. For us, the forest is much more than just a natural environment; it is a source of peace, strength, and happiness. Walking in the forest and enjoying the beauty of nature, especially in the fall, offers us the chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel a connection with the natural world.
Autumn in the forest is a special experience. As the weather cools and the leaves glow in shades of yellow, red, and orange, Finns head to the forest to gather berries and mushrooms. Picking berries and mushrooms is much more than just a way to obtain food; it is part of the Finnish rhythm of life and a deep connection with nature.
The health benefits of the forest are significant. Picking berries and mushrooms in the quiet of the forest brings a sense of timelessness. In the forest, there are no schedules or to-do lists—only you, the forest, and its offerings. This feeling of timelessness, combined with walking in the forest and listening to the sounds of nature, helps us recover from the rush and stress of everyday life. Studies have shown that even a short time spent in the forest can lower blood pressure and reduce stress hormones.
Walking in the forest and picking mushrooms and berries also contributes to mental well-being. Finding your first chanterelle or picking the perfect blueberry brings a small burst of joy. These small moments are meaningful and remind us that happiness is often found in the simple pleasures of everyday life.
For Finns, the forest is a profound and multifaceted source of happiness. It provides us with a place to retreat and listen to ourselves. The forest reminds us that we are a part of nature and that adapting to its rhythm can bring balance and well-being to our lives.
Autumn forest walks are like a return to our roots, back to what makes us Finns so unique. As we walk through the forest, we feel a connection to the generations before us who have walked the same paths and gathered the same natural gifts. This connection to the past and to nature gives us strength and depth, which are also reflected in the renowned Finnish resilience and calmness.
The forest teaches us patience and appreciation. Mushroom hunting requires attention and sometimes long searches, but it rewards us with the joy of discovery. Gathering berries—whether they are blueberries, lingonberries, or cranberries—brings a harvest that nourishes not only the body but also the mind.
For Finns, the forest is a true source of happiness. It offers us the opportunity to experience deep peace, a connection to nature and ourselves, and simple yet profound joy. As autumn arrives and the forest calls to us, we answer that call and let the forest fill us with happiness and vitality. So, head to the forest, let it calm your mind, and remind yourself of the profound impact nature can have on our well-being and happiness.
Are you longing for a different kind of workplace well-being day? Here’s an example worth trying! Take your leadership team into nature, far from the hustle and bustle of the office, just like Unity did with its international leadership team.
Here’s how the day went:
The team arrived in the spring sunshine at the beautiful Nuuksio National Park, just a 30-minute drive from Helsinki. Host Pekka had prepared a cozy campfire in the middle of a traditional hut.
We started the “Succeeding sustainably” workshop by the crackling fire. Midway through, we took a break to prepare dinner, delicious grilled salmon over an open fire, and then continued the workshop in the hut.
In small groups, we discussed how to utilize elements of Finnish happiness, such as trust and psychological safety, in our own teams.
The workshop ended with a delightful dinner, followed by relaxation in the sauna and refreshing dips in the icy lake.
Why you should try this:
🌲 Nature, an essential part of Finnish happiness and well-being,
➡️ boosts creativity and problem-solving skills
➡️ reduces stress and lowers blood pressure
➡️ strengthens the immune system
💡 Taking the team out of their usual environment opens pathways to new perspectives and ideas 🤝 Relaxed togetherness builds trust and compassion
Would you like a similar experience for your team, for example in the Helsinki metropolitan area or Pirkanmaa? Drop me a message at miia@miiahuitti.fi
Congratulations, Finland! It’s our pleasure and honor to announce that Finland has once again – for the seventh consecutive time – been rated the World’s Happiest Country! This achievement is a testament to how strong community, high levels of trust, quality education, equality, and a nature-centric lifestyle can contribute to overall well-being.
Amidst this significant recognition, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to every Finn for your contribution to the well-being of our society. Together, we have created a country where people can live happily and safely.
Warm thanks also go out to all researchers, partners, and supporters who have dedicated themselves to the study of happiness and well-being. This acknowledgment is also thanks to your tireless efforts.
Finland’s continued success in fostering happiness serves as an inspiration amidst shifting global trends. As outlined in the latest World Happiness Report, the evolving landscape of happiness across different regions, and the unfolding of happiness across different stages of life, offers valuable and nuanced insights that challenge conventional wisdom and shed light on evolving global trends.
Contrary to the conventional beliefs that youth equates to happiness, recent data from North America and Western Europe indicate a concerning decline in happiness among young people aged 15-24 since 2006-10. Yet, amidst these shifts, Central and Eastern Europe witness a remarkable surge in happiness across all age groups, leading to a convergence in youth happiness levels between Eastern and Western Europe.
Globally, individuals born since 1980 exhibit lower levels of happiness, pointing towards broader societal changes. Moreover, the widening gap in happiness inequality across regions, except Europe, poses another cause for concern.
From the challenges faced by the younger generation to the importance of well-being in combating dementia among the elderly, the report underscores the multifaceted nature of happiness. Finland’s consistent position at the forefront of happiness rankings serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the efficacy of policies promoting community, trust, education and equality, stemming from the nature-centric anti-stress lifestyle.
As we celebrate Finland’s achievement, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of well-being and happiness for all. Let’s continue to work, both within Finland and globally, towards building an even happier and more sustainable future. Together we can create a world where happiness and well-being thrive.
Imagine for a moment the fresh scent of the forest, the soft moss beneath your feet, and the joyful singing of birds in your ears. These are moments familiar to many Finns, bringing peace and joy to their hearts. Nature is a part of the Finnish identity, and its impact on our happiness and well-being is undeniable. Let’s explore why nature is such an essential part of Finnish life.
Finland is a country where nature is omnipresent. Forests, lakes, archipelagos, and mountains offer unique experiences and opportunities to enjoy the diversity of nature. Studies show that being in nature and experiencing its wonders have positive effects on mood, reduce stress, and increase well-being. The proximity to nature plays a significant role in Finnish happiness by providing us with the opportunity to get close to nature and enjoy its benefits.
The proximity to nature also provides opportunities for physical activity. Finns are known for being an active nation, and engaging in outdoor activities is one of the most popular ways to take care of oneself. Walking in the forest, berry picking, skiing, fishing, and hiking offer excellent opportunities for exercise and improving health while enjoying the beauty of nature. Physical activity, in turn, releases endorphins and other feel-good hormones, enhancing the feeling of happiness.
Nature also offers a chance to calm down and relax. The fast-paced lifestyle and constant information overload of today’s world can strain the mind and cause stress. Spending time in nature allows us to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and make room for silence and contemplation. The tranquility of the forest, the sound of water, and the birdsong can act as therapeutic elements that help us recharge and unwind.
In addition to the direct benefits of being in nature, the preservation and conservation of Finnish natural landscapes contribute to a sense of national pride and cultural heritage. The untouched wilderness, clean air, and pristine waters are treasures that Finns cherish and strive to protect for future generations.
In conclusion, nature plays a vital role in the happiness and well-being of Finns. Its presence in our lives provides opportunities for physical activity, relaxation, and a connection with our roots. Whether it’s a leisurely walk in the forest, a refreshing swim in a lake, or a mesmerizing sunset over the archipelago, nature has the power to uplift our spirits and enrich our lives. Let us cherish and protect the natural wonders that make Finland a truly special place.
The topic of happiness creates as many thoughts as there are people. What is happiness for you? My entry point to the subject is both personal and work related. I have always been a person who looks at things from the bright side – finding something positive even when something unexpected happens. According to research, people with a positive attitude are much happier than those that look for what is wrong, and I can totally relate to that.
Those who chase for happiness, usually miss the mark. Happiness is very often in the small, joyful moments. It is rather the way, not the destination. To feel happy we usually need three things:
A meaningful vision of the future
It is valuable to have a clear vision of something to thrive for and to see our own role in pursuing the vision.
A sense of purpose
We all have a wish for meaningful work in all we do. When our contributions make a difference, we feel good about ourselves.
Great relationships
The value of relationships is key to our wellbeing. Our social network is directly affecting how we feel, and positive emotions relate to feeling happy.
The psychologist Ed Diener has a researched the theme of happiness and the conclusion is that the frequency of positive experiences is a much better predictor of happiness than the intensity of positive experiences. Somebody who has a dozen of mildly nice things happen each day are usually happier than somebody who has a single truly amazing thing happen. This also shows that the source of happiness is in the small, daily things.
Dr. Lyubomirsky, head researcher from UC Riverside concluded, “When people feel happy, they tend to feel confident, optimistic and energetic and others find them likeable and sociable. Happy people are thus able to benefit from these perceptions.”
Here some hints that can help you create more happy moments in your daily life:
Accept things as they are
Enjoy what you already have
Be honest to yourself
Focus on being present and on what is important to you
See the bigger picture and enjoy the ride
Look at ‘failures’ as learning opportunities
Let’s go a bit deeper. What if you are told that you only have 12 months to live. Would you do the things you are doing now? What would you change? It is very likely that you would make different choices. Maybe you would fulfill a dream that you have postponed time after time. You would probably spend more time with your loved ones. How about doing those changes already now!
Some years ago, I realized that I want to feel even better every day, so what to do about it? I started listening to inspiring people and I created new, lasting habits. How we start and finish our days really matter. The morning sets the tone for the whole day. Now I own my mornings instead of feeling rushed from the moment I get up. What could be a good morning routine for you?
In the evening I transit into bedtime by stopping social media activities at least an hour before sleeping. I also think of what to be grateful of each evening. Those happy moments from the day put a smile on my face and as a bonus it deepens the sleep. Let’s remember that we can create happy moments if we choose so.
This is a text by our guest writer Carita Nyberg who has a role as an Advisor for the Finnish Happiness Research Association.
Carita Nyberg is the Founder and Master Trainer of her company Keys2Balance and she has developed a unique, deep yet practical training method and has helped leaders unleash their full potential and thrive both on a personal and collaborative level. After two decades of transformative work in Finland, she is now building a global Keys2Balance Trainers’ network.
For many of us the past years have been a challenge. Whether you have worked from home or have had a workplace to go to, things have not been as they used to be. Far from it! In one of the Gallup webinars the presenter said something interesting about the pandemic. “It is as if we have been in the same storm, but in different boats – each coping differently with the situation at hand.”
Many feel exhausted and there is a real danger that the next pandemic concerns mental health. That is why NOW is a good time to invest in happiness – both as individuals, families and as societies at large. One wonderful example comes from Buthan. Did you know that Bhutan measures currently gross national happiness? It is measured as:
Psychological Wellbeing
Material Wellbeing/Standard of Living
Good Governance
Health
Education
Community Vitality
Cultural Diversity and Resilience
Balanced Time Use
Ecological Diversity
Investing in happiness has paid off for them! Bhutan must be the unlikeliest pandemic success story, yet they offer a really inspiring example of making happiness a goal and combining happiness and health in an innovative way. Resilience and compassion played a huge role in the relief efforts the country made during the pandemic.
As you may know Finland was chosen as the happiest country in the world for a fourth time in a row again this year. But our relationship to happiness is quite complex. For example the most famous finnish prowerb on happiness says: “Kell onni on, se onnen kätkeköön.” Which means “May the one who has happiness hide it.” There are many other sayings like that in finnish where low key, modest enjoyment is emhasized. Just like elsewhere, in Finland too happiness is connected to family, health, friends and love but in recent studies nature seems to be of particular importance for Finns. Experiencing nature in different ways, being in nature and bringing nature in in form of plants, flowers and yes, pets. Nature is a source of finding peace and meaning. It is enjoyed with friends and family but also in solitude – experiencing silence and stillness on purpose. It is a place to find yourself, meditate, exercise and whenever the weather permits our forests are available freely for berry and mushroom picking as well. It is no wonder that in one study finnish respondents described forests as their private sanctuary.
Right now happiness and pursuing it is possibly more important, than ever as each of us start to feel a bit worn out with the dragging pandemic. Happiness has many benefits to health and wellness and Finns are experts on finding happiness in the nature. It has been noted that Finns have easy access to nature, there are trails everywhere and even in bigger cities it is possible to find a forest or lake nearby. Nature offers many opportunities to fun, joy, peacefulness and relaxation. According to latest research even 15 minutes outside in the nature can have a positive effect on your happiness. It really is worth a try! Exploring nature is also mostly free or pretty low cost activity, so some form of nature is available to us all. Here are some ideas on what to explore:
Take a brisk walk outside! Remember, even 15 minutes a day can make a difference. If at all possible, take advantage of the little daylight we have right now as a bonus and walk at lunchtime. How about making a little lunch walk in a close by park a daily habit? During the darkest months before the lasting snow falls, walking in darkness can be fun too. Wear reflective gear, remember to dress in layers and choose appropriate footwear.
Plan a picnic outdoors or visit a National Park. There are a plenty of options really. Nothing says relaxation as loud as roasting sausages by the camp fire. If you want to invest, tryl local guides – they have many wonderful stories to tell and you can order a ready made picnic menu so you can concentrate on enjoying the trip.
Try Nordic walking! I remember when the Nordic walking poles became popular people joked that the walkers had forgot their skis. Nordic walking is surprisingly effective and great fun with a walking buddy.
Go to work or where ever you need to go using a bicycle instead of a car. Yes, its true. Now you can ride your bicycle year around. There are fatbikes and special winter tires for bicycles as well. This is a true move towards hard core nature enjoyment.
P.S. Don´t let the weather scare you. As you can see from the examples above it is a matter of having proper clothing options for each weather type and you are all ready to enjoy the nature at its best.
We are interested in what makes Finns happy and Finland the happiest place to live in the world. It is intriquing that Finland has been chosen as the happiest country in the world for a fourth time in a row. What makes Finland so special? How is the Finnish happiness created on the individual and societal level?
It seems that we are clearly doing something right over here. As the authors of the World Happiness Report point out most of the differences in happiness outcomes were connected to differences in life expectancy, social support, gross domestic product per capita, generosity, freedom to make life choices and for example to subjective perception of corruption levels. Questions such as: “Did you smile or laugh a lot yesterday?”or “Were you treated with respect all day yesterday?” were used to evaluate the subjective experience of individuals.
Although Finland has ranked high in happiness we are far from perfect. Just like in other countries in our continent, unemployment is high compared to other countries in European Union and we rank high in both depression and suicide rates. On the other hand our public school system is among the best in the world, public health care system is available to all and we have a relatively low rate of powerty compared to others. One thing that has been highlighted in the studies is trust. We trust each other and the society at large.
