Living in Finland: A Year of Transformation and Perspective Shift

By Wesley Mercer, April 12, 2025

Spending a year in Finland, often hailed as the world’s happiest country, proved to be a profound experience that reshaped my views on life and happiness. Much more than a vacation, this journey involved diving deep into the Finnish way of life, navigating through both challenges and joys that ultimately transformed my perspective.

Embracing the Finnish Concept of Sisu

One of the first things that struck me about Finnish culture was the concept of Sisu. This untranslatable term embodies resilience, courage, and determination in the face of adversity. Initially, the idea of resilience was intimidating. Could I adopt this attitude in my own life?

With time, I began to embrace the spirit of Sisu. Instead of avoiding challenges, I learned to confront them with courage. The experience shifted my understanding of hardships from mere survival to thriving amidst difficulties, instilling a lasting change in my perspective on life.

Learning to Appreciate the Quiet

Finnish culture also places a high value on quiet and solitude. Coming from a bustling city where noise is commonplace, the silence in Finland was initially unsettling. However, I soon discovered that tranquility provides space for reflection and introspection.

One memorable experience involved spending time alone in a small cabin by a serene lake. The stillness allowed me to explore my thoughts freely. This appreciation for silence has since informed how I interact with my environment, helping me foster personal growth and deeper self-understanding.

Understanding the Importance of Balance

“Moderation in all things,” Aristotle famously stated, and this notion seems to underpin Finnish society. Unlike the relentless pursuit of happiness that often characterizes modern life, Finland embodies a balance between various aspects of life.

I learned this during a long winter evening when a Finnish friend encouraged me to take a break from my work. Following his advice led me to appreciate the beauty of the Northern Lights while recognizing the need for balance. This newfound understanding has transformed how I approach my daily life, promoting a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

Discovering the Finnish Love for Nature

Another aspect of Finnish life that reshaped my perspective is the intrinsic value placed on nature. With laws supporting “Everyman’s Right,” everyone in Finland is free to enjoy the outdoors. This connection to nature prompted me to engage in activities like berry-picking, which revealed a peaceful meditative quality to being surrounded by greenery.

Experiencing nature has taught me the significance of slowing down and appreciating life outside of urban environments. This connection strengthened my understanding of living harmoniously with the world around us.

Embracing the Finnish Art of Contentment

The Finnish notion of finding contentment in simple activities is embodied by the word kalsarikännit, which translates loosely to “pantsdrunk.” It humorously refers to the relaxation of staying at home in one’s pajamas with no plans to go out.

This became particularly meaningful on a cold winter evening when nestled in my blanket, enjoying hot chocolate and a good book. I found joy in simplicity, realizing that fulfillment stems from everyday moments as much as from monumental achievements.

Valuing the Finnish Approach to Education

An observation that resonated with me was the Finnish education system, known for its outstanding performance worldwide. Unlike many countries that focus on competition, Finnish education emphasizes equality and student wellbeing.

A visit to a local school left a lasting impression on me. The warm, engaging atmosphere fostered a love for learning, moving beyond grades to prioritize mental health. This perspective shifted my views on education, highlighting the importance of nurturing individual growth and happiness.

Experiencing the Finnish Sense of Community

Finally, my year in Finland exposed me to the strength of community and collective responsibility, encapsulated in the term talkoot, which describes a gathering to complete a task together.

Participating in a local clean-up event, I experienced the joy of working alongside others, sharing laughter and meals, and contributing positively to our neighborhood. This spirit of communal participation reinforced the message that happiness is interconnected with the well-being of the community as a whole.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my year in Finland, I recognize the profound impact it has had on my outlook on living. From embracing resilience and silence to understanding the significance of balance, nature, contentment, education, and community, my experiences there have instilled a lasting transformation in my perspective on happiness and fulfillment. Living in Finland was not just about experiencing a different culture; it became a journey of personal growth and deep self-discovery.