Secrets of Happiness from Denmark
Denmark consistently ranks at the top of the World Happiness Report as one of the happiest countries in the world. So, what’s their secret and what can we learn from them to “upgrade” our level of happiness?
Secret #1 – Hygge
This word does not have a literal translation, but it means coziness or cozy contentment. It’s anything that brings a deep and soul-warming pleasure. Danish people have a lifestyle that reminds them to slow down, connect with one another, and dwell and savor, rather than rush and spend.
Secret #2 – Trust
That’s an essential value in Danish culture and society. It’s something that it’s taught at schools and practiced in their everyday interactions with the authorities and various public and private organizations, and all forms of service. Denmark has very low corruption, if at all. This sense of trust allows children to travel alone on public transport as young as 8y.o. and have other passengers keeping an eye on them. It is also safer than other parts of the world to walk outside any time of day or night.
Secret #3 – Work-life balance
Family is highly valued in Danish society, as it offers a sense of identity and belonging. Danes are trusted by their manager to make their own schedule for work. According to OECD, they work 1,563hrs/yr, 10% lower than the OECD average. They take 52 weeks of parental leave, and they are entitled to take time off with full pay on the first day a child is sick. 78% of Danish mothers are employed after their children begin school. In general, people in Denmark devote 68% of their day to personal care and leisure.
Secret #4 – Tax payment as welfare investment
Danes pay some of the highest taxes in the world but in return, they receive free healthcare, childcare, elderly care, education, and generous unemployment benefits. That’s why most Danes would say they are happy to pay those taxes because they take so much in return
Secret #5 – Exercise
Last but not least, participation in sports and exercise has continuously increased in Denmark -esp. older age groups and women. In a 2017 Eurostat survey, Danes were found 23% above the EU average in terms of exercise (incl. cycling as part of their transportation).
Well, their secrets are “common secrets” -we all know these. We just need to set the intention and make the necessary changes to our lifestyle for a healthier and happier life.