According to the annual United Nations World Happiness Report, Finland has yet again proved that it is the happiest country in the world, having won the title for seven consecutive years. Denmark is second.
The secret to a happy life is simple, and Finns mainly attribute it to four fundamental elements: a strong bond with nature, a grounded lifestyle, fresh and wholesome food, and a commitment to sustainability. According to Finns themselves, the key to happiness is a set of skills that can be learned rather than a closely guarded mystery, Good News Network reported.
CNBC Make It consulted a panel of Finnish and Danish business leaders and psychologists to explore key sayings that encourage optimistic thinking, particularly during challenging times.
Incorporating these three phrases into your vocabulary can enhance your overall happiness, these experts said:
Things You Leave Behind Will Only Haunt You
Everyone encounters problems in life or at work, but addressing them as soon they show up can prevent them from happening again.
Finland believes that neglecting an issue can only lead to larger problems down the line, which is why it is very important to address it upfront to avoid further escalation, said Anni Hallila, head of people and culture at Framery, a Finnish manufacturing company.
"Pyt Med Det"
Americans face numerous external stressors beyond their control, with 27% reporting daily inability to function due to stress, per an American Psychological Association poll.
People in Denmark use a three-word phrase to avoid this stress every day. Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, wrote "Pyt med det" on CNBC Make It.
"Pyt med det" is a frequently used phrase in Denmark that translates to "It doesn't matter" or "Don't worry about it." While it was initially used as a swear word meaning "hell," its modern usage embodies a deep acceptance and letting go of worry. It represents a gentle exhale amidst life's challenges, reassuring that things will be okay, even if they do not seem to be.
Wiking added that "Pyt med det" fosters a mindset of shrugging off negativity and progressing with grace and resilience.
While Some Have Happiness, Everyone Has Summer
Most of us agree that we tend to feel self-conscious or envious when we see other people sharing their highlights on Social Media. It would help if you were not because what we perceive is only a meticulously curated image they choose to present.
We are currently in an era of perfectionism that kills, where the pressure to meet impossible standards in our personal lives, the quest for an ideal body, or the relentless drive for career success fosters a toxic psychological environment. Will Storr's book "Selfie: How We Became So Self Obsessed and What It's Doing to Us" reads.
Finnish psychologist Frank Martela wrote for Make It in March that Finnish people rely on the century-old phrase, "Some have happiness, everyone has summer," which signifies that better days are on the horizon regardless of current challenges.
Life has its ups and downs, with challenges for some today and joys for others tomorrow. Finns are certain that, despite circumstances, "summer will come to us all." Martela added.
