Why Finland is the HAPPIEST COUNTRY in the world?
Finland – the Nordic nation is known as the happiest country in the world. It has remained at serial number 1 in “World Happiness Index Report” for six consecutive years from 2018 to 2023.
Little Personal Experience
I am living in Finland for the past one and half year and I already started to feel the happiness and peace Finland has to offer. The government plays a great role here as it thinks highly of the citizens unlike several nations. It focuses to reduce the economic insecurity as well as negative mental health of people. I have seen people here giving space to each other and not intruding in others life which also one of the core reasons why PEOPLE ARE HAPPY HERE. They are less demanding as Finland fulfills all their demands beforehand which satisfies them and keeps them happier. They are mostly introvert and remains far away from any kind of conflict with each which will become an obstacle to their happiness.
So here’s what I felt made Finland the happiest.
Now let’s talk about the logical and worldly reasons that made Finland the happiest country.
Connection with Nature
According to a 2021 survey; 87% of Finns reported that nature is important to them because it provides them with peace of mind, energy and relaxation. In Finland, employees are provided four week summer vacation. Most of them spend their holidays in the countryside where they can immerse themselves in nature.
In Finland, forests are always close at hand and easily accessible. Within less than 30 minutes from the center of Helsinki, you can reach a national park, or escape to a nearby island in just 15. With over 40 national parks, Finland offers abundant hiking routes, nature trails, and campfire sites, inviting you to spend a night under the stars surrounded by pristine wilderness. On the other hand, from witnessing the NORTHERN LIGHTS to THE MIDNIGHT SUN the Finns are closely connected with nature.
Social Welfare System
In contrast to many nations, the Finnish government prioritizes the well-being of its citizens. With a comprehensive social welfare system in place, Finland provides top-notch healthcare, education, and various unemployment benefits. These measures significantly alleviate economic insecurity among citizens, fostering a sense of stability and confidence in the society.
Sweat out the negative in SAUNA
In Finland, there are an impressive 3 million saunas for a population of just over 5 million people. This abundance of saunas is a testament to the cherished Finnish sauna culture, recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Central to Finnish customs and well-being, the sauna holds profound significance in understanding Finnish culture and happiness. For many Finns, sauna sessions are intertwined with lakeside experiences, offering ample opportunities across the country’s 188,000 lakes to relax, unwind, and rejuvenate.
Work-Life Balance
Undoubtedly, one of the cornerstones of Finnish happiness lies in its prioritization of work-life balance. The culture places a significant emphasis on this aspect, with employees enjoying shorter work hours, ample holidays, and flexibility in their schedules. This commitment to fostering a healthy balance between work and personal life allows Finns to prioritize family time, leisure activities, and overall well-being, contributing greatly to their overall happiness and satisfaction. Finland offers opportunities for ensuring healthy work-life balance; employees are provided four week summer holiday; free maternity leave of 160 days that can be extended for paid leave of almost one year; in order to facilitate the fathering role; paternity leave of 56 days is granted to employees.
Mental Health Awareness
In Finland, there is a growing awareness of mental health issues, accompanied by a range of policies and services designed to support those in need. From accessible mental health care services to comprehensive support systems, Finland is committed to addressing and alleviating mental health challenges. This emphasis on mental well-being reflects a societal commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all individuals, contributing to a healthier and happier population.
Low Crime Rate and Corruption Rate
Finland’s reputation for its low crime rate and overall safety makes it a welcoming environment, particularly for women who feel secure here. Remarkably, Finland is also recognized as one of the least corrupt nations globally. This low level of corruption is often linked to higher levels of happiness, reflecting the trust and integrity within Finnish society that contributes to a sense of well-being and contentment among its citizens.
Egalitarian Marital Relationships
Finland boasts high levels of gender equality, fostering egalitarian marital relationships where mutual understanding is valued and household and parenting responsibilities are shared. Notably, Finland holds the distinction of being the only country globally with the best fathering commitment. This egalitarian ethos not only enhances marital satisfaction but also contributes significantly to the overall well-being and happiness of individuals and families in Finland.
Free Education!
Finland provides Free Education to the residents not only that its groundbreaking education system is renowned worldwide. Teachers in Finland are highly educated and extensively trained to prioritize students’ well-being and holistic development. This emphasis on nurturing students’ overall growth sets Finland apart, ensuring that every learner receives the support and guidance needed to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Trust In Government
The Finnish people exhibit a profound trust in their government and public institutions, a key determinant of a country’s happiness. This high level of trust reflects the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of Finland’s governance structures, fostering a sense of security and stability among its citizens. This trust serves as a foundational element in shaping Finland’s overall happiness and well-being, underlining the significance of strong governmental and institutional integrity in fostering societal contentment.
Community Support and Trust
Finland is celebrated for its deeply ingrained culture of sharing and caring, where relationships are prioritized and both work and personal connections are marked by warmth and affection. Finns readily provide emotional, informational, and tangible support to one another, enhancing their happiness and well-being. With a strong sense of community, every Finn has someone to lean on during challenging times. Additionally, Finland is recognized for its autonomy-supportive parenting approach, where parents respect differing opinions and empower their children to think and act independently. This positive parenting style significantly contributes to the self-esteem and life satisfaction of Finns, fostering a sense of autonomy and fulfillment.
No comparison
There’s a famous line by a Finnish poet: “Kell’ onni on, se onnen kätkeköön.” Roughly translated, it means: Don’t compare or brag about your happiness.
Indeed, the Finnish mindset places little emphasis on overt displays of wealth or material possessions. A telling anecdote involves encountering one of the wealthiest men in Finland, who, instead of opting for luxuries like an expensive car or private driver, chose to push his toddler in a stroller toward the tram station, embracing public transportation like everyone else. In Finland, success is not measured by ostentatious displays, but rather by blending in with the community and embracing a humble, down-to-earth approach to life.
