Lagom: The Swedish way for more balance
The Swedes are among the happiest people in the world.
Whether this is due to the picturesque nature, the delicious cinnamon buns or the loving and carefree cooperation, this is the finding of the "World Happiness Report". Every year, the Report chooses the countries with the happiest inhabitants. Above all, freedom, generosity, honesty, health, income, care, security and a trusting government are important factors for the happiness of people.
"But what is the Scandinavian recipe for happiness?"
From Hygge to Lagom
So far, we have made ourselves hyggelig at home: putting on thick woolen socks , lying on the sofa, drinking a cup of tea and enjoying the company of friends made the bad weather more edible. We associate the Danish Hygge with being together, cosiness and homeliness. Being satisfied with what you have and not wanting too much - that seems to be a basic attitude of the Scandinavians, whether they come from Denmark, Sweden or Norway. If you are currently browsing the shelves of the bookstores and libraries, a new term can be found next to the Hygge publications and it's called: Lagom. It is the Swedish answer to the right balance in life, replacing the Hygge trend.
"What does Lagom mean?"
One can not translate Lagom literally, but the rough meaning is "the right measure". It's about finding the perfect balance, be it on important life issues, such as the balance between work and fun, or the right dose of milk in coffee. Not too little, but not too much either.
How can we integrate Lagom into our lives?
Lagom can not be trained like de fined upper arms, but is an attitude that can gradually be integrated into ones life. The Swedish word for a lifestyle that runs like a thread through all areas. For the right Lagom feeling it is especially important to cultivate relationships with friends and family, to keep work and leisure in good balance, to live in harmony with nature, to refrain from overflowing and to make regular coffee breaks for more relaxation. The Swedes say: insert a Fika. You make a date several times a day for a coffee together, be it at work or at home, to rest for a moment. The harmonious, familiar togetherness is in the foreground
"To appreciate the little everyday joys and to live down to earth - that's what we should learn from the Swedes. "
Of course, it must not be forgotten that Scandinavia generally lives in good balance, because there are hardly any differences in income, poverty or unemployment in the Nordic countries. Of course, those who have work and do not know any major social differences also live happier lives. Ultimately, Lagom and Hygge are transporting a philosophy of life that, when put into practice, brings more satisfaction, happiness and wellbeing.
