8 Scandinavian Secrets to Living a Happier Life
Copenhagen
The Nordic countries consistently rank atop the world's happiness lists. In fact, five Scandinavian nations—Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland and Iceland—made the top 10 happiest countries in the 2023 World Happiness Report. With long winters yet delighted residents, what makes Scandinavians so cheerful and satisfied? We spoke to Scandinavian experts to uncover the secrets to Nordic contentment.
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Why Are Scandinavian People Considered the Happiest in the World?
According to Henrik Jeppesen, a Danish travel blogger who has visited every country across the globe, Scandinavians benefit from strong societal safety nets that reduce uncertainty.
"The main reason is certainty. For the vast majority of people no matter what happens they will be taken care of. This is not the case in a lot of countries in the world including the United States," Jeppesen explains. Knowing they will be supported through job loss, illness or other life events provides Scandinavians with a sense of stability.
Jeppesen also notes that egalitarianism is a key ingredient in Nordic happiness. "In Denmark, it's OK to be normal, you don't have to be something special to be accepted, which might be the case in a lot of countries," he says. "The cleaner can sit next to the boss of a big company, while this might be unheard of in other countries." This lack of status consciousness creates a sense of belonging across Scandinavian communities.
Moreover, affordable healthcare ensures Scandinavians don't face financial catastrophe from injury or illness. "I was diagnosed with Lyme disease last year and various kinds of tests and hospitalization in a Danish hospital didn't cost one cent. I'm not going to guess how much that would have cost in the United States," Jeppesen remarks. With medical bankruptcy nearly non-existent, Scandinavians are freed of that worry.
The combination of sturdy social safeguards, egalitarian values and accessible health services provides the foundation for Scandinavian happiness. Citizens are supported at both an individual and societal level to thrive. Now let's explore the specific secrets that help Nordic residents capitalize on this foundation to build joyful, purposeful lives.
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8 Scandinavian Secrets to Living a Happier Life
1. Paid Parental Leave
According to Nate Axvig, who lived in Norway for two years and who owns Aktiv Style, a Scandinavian store in Colorado, a full year of paid parental leave is standard across Scandinavia after having a baby. "Basically, a newborn spends the first year of his or her life with a parent," Axvig explains. This generous bonding time in a child's first year cements strong family connections from the start. Both moms and dads can take advantage of the leave, splitting it however they choose.
2. Universal Childcare
Per Axvig, affordable childcare seamlessly takes over once parental leave ends around a child's first birthday. "Once the parental leave is up, the child moves into 'Barnehage,' which is organized daycare for ages 1–5," he describes. With quality care covered, Scandinavian parents can return to work while children socialize and play in a stimulating environment.
3. Early Retirement
Scandinavians can retire as early as age 62, transitioning to their golden years with a government pension in hand. This allows several decades to pursue passions like volunteering, hobbies and travel outside of work. In contrast, Americans generally labor well into their 60s—delaying leisure pursuits.
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4. Embracing the Outdoors
Axvig notes Scandinavians treasure outdoor recreation and activity year-round—not letting weather limit them. "The unofficial Norwegian motto is, 'There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing,'" he shares.
Instead of hunkering inside during winter, Nordics enthusiastically gear up to bike, ski and hike regardless of rain, snow or cold conditions. Being active outdoors provides mood boosts even in the darkness of winter.
5. Vacation Time
Scandinavians enjoy ample vacation time from work each year. "The work calendar affords many opportunities to hop on flights to any and all places," says Axvig.
Travel helps expand perspectives, creates joyful memories and provides a relaxing change of scenery. With more disposable vacation time, Scandinavians frequently embark on adventures near and far.
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6. Cozy Time
The Scandinavian tradition of "cozy time" involves lighting candles, putting on warm fuzzy socks and comfy clothes, and enjoying hobbies like knitting or listening to music. "It is almost like a mini hibernation," explains Axvig.
This hygge concept of getting cozy and savoring simple pleasures is a cherished way to de-stress and feel content.
7. Long Summer Days
As Axvig notes, during Nordic summers, the days stretch gloriously long—with nearly 20 hours of sunlight above the Arctic Circle. "This allows the citizens to fit in late-night hikes, swims and general exploration," he says. Few things beat long sunny evenings perfect for being active outdoors. The summer's abundance of light uplifts moods after winter's darkness.
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8. Natural Beauty
Scandinavia's breathtaking landscapes astound on a daily basis. "For example, Western Norway and especially the coastlines north of Bergen are simply gorgeous. Clear cold fjords are fed through mountain ranges by stunning waterfalls," describes Axvig. Majestic vistas inspire awe and make appreciating nature effortless.
While happiness is multi-faceted, the Nordic way emphasizes work-life balance, social support, and savoring simple pleasures. By borrowing from Scandinavia, we too can infuse more joy and satisfaction into our days.
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Sources
Nate Axvig, owns Aktiv Style, a Scandinavian store.
Henrik Jeppesen, a Danish travel blogger at Every Country in the World.
