In the pursuit of happiness? Here is a cue from the Finns!

On 20th March 2020, Finland was recognized as the happiest country in the world for the third time in a row by the United Nations. At a time when all of us are coping through so much stress and are helplessly trying to digest each day as it slowly lurks by, this indeed is a wake up call. Yes folks, we are really discussing the land of the Northern lights and the hometown of Santa Claus; a country where the temperature crosses 10 degree Celsius for less than four months in a year. However what is truly admirable is that the Finns aren’t boggled down by the weather but in fact consider it their blessing. So let us get to the actual reasons behind all this using our favorite technique: asking the apt questions.

Why is Finland so happy? Did a movement for happiness (as big as the Me-too) originate there? Is there a provision for unlimited access to mobile data and chocolates or something?

I answer this question by presenting a report brought out by The Legatum Institute. In 2016, it stated that Finland had the best Governance in the world. The institute’s prosperity index which values wealth and well being amidst the nine pillars placed Finland in the third spot among 156 nations. This shows that efficiency in the decentralization of Governance can indeed reap wonders.

A PEEK AT FINLAND'S FEMALE POWERED GOVERNMENT

Though the inflow of money hasn’t been great in the last few years, the country has been successful in converting its wealth into prosperity. The Government has time and again been praised for progressive taxation, wealth distribution and its numerous welfare laws. The Universal education system and the easy and affordable access to heath care have struck a huge chord in enabling a stable society.

The Government has also been successful in instilling a social security net by taking a series of measures to end homelessness and poverty as a whole. Finns enjoy a strong sense of freedom and security. A study shows that though the GDP of France and Finland are on the same range, Finns are much happier because they dare to be more free; psychologically, socially and politically.

Here is another fact. Though the US has the highest GDP in the world, its rank has slipped down in the happiness index. This strengthens two arguments;

Firstly, richness doesn’t have to necessarily be expressed in monetary terms always. Secondly even on large scale(countries in this case) happiness cannot be simply equated to higher economic growth. Another important fact is that income disparity is very low in this country.

As Anna Parthenon rightly pointed out in her book “The Nordic Theory of Everything”, Finland stands out from the rest purely due to its capability to make its people feel that they still have a control over their lives.

Not just this, Finland has utilized its low population density to its fullest advantage and has taken concerted and systematic measures to ensure the protection of its environment and its precious Eco system. Several lakes have been cleaned up; natural endowments are being set up even in urban areas and there are several curbs that are in place to regulate emissions from large industrial units. As a result, it stands on top of the pedestal (in environment conservation) and has a lot of

scenic spots and a number of breathtaking views to offer to its tourists.

On a lighter note, Finns aren’t really inclined to chocolates (at least not to the extent that I thought) but to alcohol. They associate a large part of their happiness to a bottle of wine or a mug full of beer . No meal is complete without the popular Lakka and Mesimarja. Owing to the cold climatic conditions, alcohol (specifically beer) is a staple part of their diet.

These technical reasons can’t provide an entire justification. Surely there must be more to the story right?

Yes, you have hit the nail with that question. Robert Tew once said: if you learn how to create your own happiness, then no one can take it away from you. The truth is; Finns are a living example of this very ideal.

§ A report shows that over 80% of the Finns completely trust their police force. This has a positive effect psychologically as where there is trust, dedication follows. It has enabled the creation of a super efficient system and crime rates have reduced drastically as a consequence of this.

Finns take a lot of pride in their national culture. Not just this, be it a morning stroll through the forests carefully picking the right berries or gazing earnestly at the northern lights, they savor and cherish the small small joys that come across their path.

§ Finland is a country that definitely prioritizes time over money. It has a provision for 25 days of paid leave whereas countries like the US don’t even have such a law in the first place . The global average is 20 days. ( On a side note, sorry for pulling you up again US. I needed you to strengthen my rhetoric).

§ Gender equity is a definite icing on the cake. The government has played a major role in ensuring that women feel free, safe and equal. Its numerous welfare laws have paved way for millions to realize and work towards their potential. Unemployment rates are dismissively low and a strong workforce has stimulated and fostered greater development.Did you know that this is a country where fathers spend more time with their kids than mothers (by 8 minutes)?

§ It is common sayings that if you want to be generous then do it the Finn way. Studies also point out to the fact that this very quality of being generous and ever ready to provide social support to others gives the Finns the resilience they need to face various disasters. Wow man! These people are on the top of every list.

Finally on this list is SISU, a unique philosophy that the Finns meticulously follow. It roughly translates to will, determination and perseverance. This policy sets them apart from the rest and is their identity.

Finland is happy because its people have realized that it is a choice not an obligation. On a concluding note, here is a Finnish quote to ponder upon:

“Happiness is a place between too much and too little. It doesn’t come from happiness itself but from the journey of achieving it.”