Finland is consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world, topping the World Happiness Report for years. Despite its long winters, freezing temperatures, and months without sunlight in certain areas, Finland’s residents report exceptional life satisfaction. For comparison, the United States ranked 23rd on the same list.
A large part of Finland's happiness can be attributed to its systems that alleviate stress, such as free education, universal healthcare, and generous vacation policies. With a population smaller than New York City, the country’s resources are easier to manage. However, Finland’s high satisfaction also comes from cultural habits that prioritize emotional well-being and social connections. Read on to find out how Finland fosters happiness and how you can apply them in your life.
Related: 10 Practices of Happiness from Around the World
Unlike in many countries where people are expected to respond to "how are you?" with "good" or "fine," Finns are more open about their emotions. They’re comfortable admitting when things aren’t going well.
Meri Larivaara, director at MIELI Mental Health Finland, noted that this culture of emotional transparency allows people to express themselves without fear of judgment. Suppressing emotions can lead to feelings of isolation and stress, while being honest fosters connection and understanding. Research shows that bottling up feelings can negatively affect mental health and social bonds. Practicing emotional openness with trusted individuals can help you feel less overwhelmed and more connected.
In Finland, work hours are manageable, leaving people with plenty of time for themselves. Moreover, employees are entitled to four weeks of summer holiday there. This balance allows individuals to relax, pursue hobbies, and focus on personal well-being.
People living in the country report that short commutes further improve their quality of life by freeing up more time each day. Having this balance not only reduces stress but also allows people to engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment.
Nature plays a central role in Finnish happiness. The country’s Everyman’s Right rule grants everyone access to forests, lakes, and natural spaces, enabling activities like hiking, berry picking, and skiing without cost.
Psychologists from Finland note that being surrounded by nature reduces stress, which directly impacts overall happiness. They add that even in urban areas, natural spaces are never far away. For those looking to embrace this Finnish habit, spending time outdoors—even in a local park—can offer similar stress-relieving benefits.
Related: Science Offers These Tips to Find Joy in Your Life
Finns place a high value on learning, whether it’s picking up a new skill or exploring a hobby. Larivaara explained that learning something new, even a simple task like trying a recipe, is beneficial for mental health.
Experts highlight that Finland’s many community associations make it easy to pursue hobbies affordably, such as yoga and pottery. Engaging in new experiences helps break the monotony of daily routines and makes time feel more meaningful. Exploring new interests can leave you with a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
Finland’s small population fosters strong social networks and trust among its residents. Experts say these connections are key to the country’s high happiness levels.
While the U.S. and the U.K. are much larger and less cohesive, focusing on building your own circle of trustworthy relationships can have a similar impact. Research has consistently found that loneliness is one of the biggest detractors of life satisfaction. Strengthening ties with family and friends can help combat isolation and create a more fulfilling life. Prioritizing these relationships through regular check-ins and quality time can improve your overall well-being.
Happiness in Finland is more about a steady sense of contentment than experiencing intense joy. Experts note that culturally, happiness in Finland is tied to a constant satisfaction with life and its smaller pleasures rather than seeking out euphoric emotions. This perspective, according to mental health specialists, makes happiness more attainable because it’s rooted in appreciating what you already have.
Social sciences experts point out that the World Happiness Report doesn’t measure emotional highs but rather overall life satisfaction. This approach encourages focusing on small joys, like a warm cup of coffee or reliable transportation, rather than chasing fleeting excitement.
There is a well-known Finnish saying that states, "Those who are happy should not flaunt it," which captures the cultural value of avoiding comparisons and materialism. Finns apply this mindset in their daily lives by refraining from outward displays of wealth or success.
For example, even the wealthiest individuals in Finland are known for often taking public transportation with their children instead of opting for a chauffeur-driven car. In Finland, success isn’t about standing out but blending in and focusing on personal contentment. Experts recommend adopting this approach by valuing what brings you happiness and setting your own benchmarks instead of comparing yourself to others.
Related: 5 Apps That Will Help Make You Feel Truly Happy
One of Finland’s strengths is its cultural appreciation for the present. Mental health experts emphasize that Finns prioritize enjoying daily moments without worrying excessively about the future or dwelling on the past.
Embracing this mindset means practicing mindfulness when you eat, spend time outside, or simply enjoy a quiet evening at home. Embracing the present gives Finns a sense of peace and balance that contributes to their well-being.
