For the past eight years, Finland has ranked number one and the United States twenty-fifth out of 157 nations on the World Happiness Report. The report is comprised of more than 250 pages of extensive research and data, of which one common thread between the countries that ranked the highest is the relationships of its residents and how their willingness to contribute increases their overall happiness.
What is it about Finland that they score the highest year after year? Below are some insights from the report on how best to maintain happiness.
Caring and Sharing: Benevolence is a win-win for both the giver and the receiver. It feels good when you are kind to another person and has a two-fold effect. By graciously accepting another’s kindness, you help them feel happier, too.
Sharing Meals: In 2023, roughly “1 in 4 Americans reported eating all of their meals alone the previous day – an increase of 53% since 2003.” While loneliness is a global epidemic, sharing a meal brings people together with quality time spent with one another a tradition worth holding on to.
Living with Others: “Happiness is nurtured in relational spaces and the family is at the heart of these connections.” In many cultures, families who live together increase their happiness. Mexico and Europe average four to five people living in a home, while Latin American families who live together are larger. Sharing a home can be where you feel supported and share close bonds daily.
Connecting with Others: “In 2023, 19% of young adults across the world reported having no one they could count on for social support, representing a 39% increase compared to 2006.” One of the greatest gifts you can give another is the quality of your attention. A small act of kindness can make a difference, even for a stranger. When you take time to build relationships with others, you can have deep, meaningful conversations. Every relationship varies and takes time and effort. Be willing to take the first step and you may be surprised by how well it is received.
Supporting Others: We all experience times when we need support. The comfort and security of knowing we have people to count on in life is essential to our overall well-being. Being there for each other in times of need gives us a sense of purpose and contribution.
Trusting Others: Trust between people is the foundation of strong relationships and often takes time to build. When you have established trust, you have people you can count on who look out for your best interest and are honest with you even when it is difficult to express. In a trusting relationship, you feel safe, secure and confident.
Giving to Others: Giving is not only monetary and there are many other ways to give from sharing our time, talents and treasures with others.
