A widely known Finnish saying goes, "Slowly or quickly, summer will come into everyone’s life." The Finns believe that certain events in life are beyond human control.
Rooted in this philosophy, they have embraced the wisdom: "Why should I be anxious about what is not in my hands?" They have also internalized another essential truth: "Life sometimes gives and sometimes takes away. Today, I may be in a good position while someone else struggles; tomorrow, my situation may reverse".
This is, in fact, reality. Nations that think like the Finns tend to live in peace, comfort, and happiness. Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, and Switzerland are prime examples.
These countries consistently rank among the world's happiest, as reflected in this year’s World Happiness Report. For the eighth consecutive time, Finland has secured the top spot—an achievement that is both remarkable and enviable.
But the question remains: What key do these nations hold that allows them to immerse themselves in the sea of happiness?
Happiness Is Not for Show
True happiness is not something to be flaunted. Even in Helsinki, CEOs of major corporations commute in simple Volvos or Volkswagens.
But what about countries that constantly lament the lack of happiness? Do their top officials lead lives as simple as the Finns? Have the general populations in those countries embraced a culture of minimalism?
Instead, many people in these nations live by a different motto—"More, more, I want more!" Could this very mindset be the root of their unrest and distress? A lack of restraint seems to dominate these societies.
In contrast, happy nations accept that obstacles are a natural part of life. They believe setbacks are inevitable, and by preparing mentally to face them, happiness becomes more attainable.
On the other hand, unhappy nations nurture a constant fear of the unknown. But fear and happiness are opposites. Instead of sighing, "I built a home for happiness, only to see it burn in flames," those struggling with unhappiness must stand before a mirror, look into their own eyes, and seek the true source of their fears. Where exactly does happiness go wrong?
The Key to Happiness
Happy people focus not on what they lack but on what they still have. This mindset makes it easier to move forward.
This is the true key to happiness—learning to think positively. Instead of panicking in difficult times, one must cultivate self-confidence and belief. No one will serve happiness on a silver platter; your happiness is your own responsibility. This idea echoes an age-old Roman proverb.
For this reason, scholars often define happiness as "a state of mind." The poet wisely advised, "Do not crave happiness, nor entangle yourself in sorrow..." Yet, happiness remains one of humanity's most sought-after treasures.
A recent Harvard study claims that happiness can be found—if one actively seeks it. However, happiness does not lie in career success, wealth, or possessions. Instead, it thrives in human connections and social well-being.
Thus, before striving to be happy, we must ask ourselves: Do we have "our people"? And how healthy is our society?
