A quick search for the world’s happiest country will likely point you to Finland.
This Northern European nation, bordered by Sweden, Norway, and Russia, has consistently topped the United Nations’ World Happiness Report for years.
What makes Finland stand out when it comes to quality of life, job satisfaction, and overall mental health for its citizens?
Some reasons include its relatively small population of 5.6 million, robust social services and welfare programs, and strong progress in gender equality.
But beyond these, let’s explore five key factors that contribute to Finland’s high levels of happiness.
1. Proximity to nature
Nature is a central part of life in Finland.
Forests, parks, and lakes are easily accessible, often just minutes away from residents in towns and cities across the country. What’s more, these natural spaces are free to enjoy, thanks to the Everyman’s Right—a law that grants everyone in Finland the freedom to explore and use the islands, parks, and forests for recreation and relaxation.
Under Everyman’s Right, you can hike, cycle, paddle, fish, swim, or simply unwind in nature without restrictions or interruptions. This deep connection to the outdoors plays a significant role in the happiness and well-being of the Finnish people.
2. Lack of corruption
Finnish society is built on transparency and good governance, with corruption being virtually non-existent.
Living in a society free from crime and corruption significantly boosts the happiness of its citizens. Policies are designed to benefit the people, and systems like free education, universal healthcare, and strong social support function effectively. This creates a sense of security and trust, further enhancing the quality of life for Finns.
3. Strong work-life balance
In Finland, working long hours is not the norm.
This approach allows people to dedicate more time to activities they enjoy and find fulfilling. Additionally, Finns spend less time commuting, which means more quality time with family and friends and lower stress levels. This balance between work and personal life is a key factor in their overall happiness.
4. A culture of trust
Trust is a cornerstone of Finnish society.
The small population fosters close-knit, connected, and supportive communities where people easily trust one another. Finns also have strong trust in their government, as social welfare policies are effectively implemented, and equal rights are actively promoted. This sense of trust and mutual support contributes significantly to the high levels of happiness in Finland.
5. Freedom of emotional expression
In Finland, bottling up emotions is discouraged. People are free to openly share their uncomfortable or negative feelings without hesitation.
This openness allows for the release of pent-up emotions, creating a sense of relief and contributing to higher levels of satisfaction and contentment. Finns feel lighter and more at ease knowing they’ve fully expressed themselves, which plays a key role in their overall happiness and mental well-being.
