Why Finland is happy being content

In Finland, the central vibe is one many of us struggle with.

Nope, it’s not optimism, arrogance or even denial. It's smack dab in the middle.

Contentment.

It’s a concept that we may think we know well - but the reality is, most folk are rarely satisfied with what they have.

In contrast, the Finnish approach life with a reserved gratitude. They appreciate the significance of a moment, rather than pursuing unfulfilling highs.

It’s a way of life that often finds Finland perched atop of ‘happiest places in the world’ listings. 

More pressing though, is the burden this perception has placed on its people.

A safe place to live

Ranked number 1 in the ‘safest places to live’, Finland’s relaxed, accepting outlook is a byproduct of the trust reciprocated between the Finns and their leaders.

Where many countries shelter their young, it’s commonplace in Finland for children to travel safely without supervision.

It’s a freedom that comes from their focus on community and wellbeing - one that sees its capital, Helsinki, ranked 2nd in the world for work-life balance.

Leaders that make things happen

Another contributor is a legitimate trust in their government. I’ll say that again. They actually trust their government.

61% of Finns say they have faith in their national leaders, which is striking when compared to the 49% no faith vote in the UK.

As one of the least corrupt countries on earth, Finnish citizens understand that their opinion and vote counts. They’re also guaranteed free public health care, and their education system - get this - they don’t pay a single euro for it.

That’s right, the state funds everything from pre-school childcare, right through to university level learning. And with a stance that great education isn’t reserved for the fattest wallets, everyone gets a fair shake.

You’ll even find equality in the class system, with a smaller gap between high and low income. And though this may cause some good ol’ fashioned competition, it has led to a significant reduction in crime.

Natural connection

Finland's connection to nature goes beyond an excellent sustainability and climate awareness track record.

The Everyman Rule allows citizens free reign over the 41 national parks - meaning Finns can walk, swim, fish and forage to their heart's content.

They also boast some of the cleanest air on earth - in part thanks to 70% of the country blanketed being with forests.

Now, I get it. It’s a hell of a list. 

And though Finland still has a way to go in areas like high taxes and the gender pay gap - it’s a list of positives that from an outside perspective, looks pretty enticing.

A national attitude

These surface level observations are the backbone of what is perceived to be the Finnish national attitude. An outlook rooted in realistic expectations of yourself, rather than pushing too hard and ending up with nothing.

Sounds a little apathetic doesn’t it? Well, yes and no.

You see, their mindset is less ‘do anything it takes to be happy’ and more ‘what’s the bare minimum needed to find happiness’. A focus on the basics that finds satisfaction in simplicity. 

It sounds humbling, and for most Finns it works. But as the perception of Finland as ‘one of the happiest places on Earth’ grows, it leaves little room for people who don’t feel that way to express themselves.

Perception as reality?

Their lofty reputation as a ‘happiness capital’ means some Finns feel obliged to play along, even if they aren’t. As a result, younger people feel they should suppress their negative feelings to conform to the vibrant national stereotype.

Ironically, this pushing down of hardship has been ingrained in the Finnish life for centuries. Sisu - is a Finnish word for resilience and endurance. It’s an unassuming approach, favouring quiet and calm over jubilant and talkative. 

But it’s one that also prevents adults and younger people from addressing wellbeing problems. It asks them to soldier on in the face of depression and poor mental health. 

And though Finland is working towards solutions, it’s a dangerous trait in a country where one in five people are affected by mental illness. 

Just content

Though most Finns are aware of their country's positive attributes, many are puzzled at the 'happiest country on the earth’ label.

They’re quite happy to accept the banner of ‘contentment’ though. A label that allows less scope for stereotypes and acknowledges that ‘what they have is enough.’

However, like many countries that ‘seem to be getting it right’ - the underlying issues are often the ones that need the most attention.