Psychologists and Workplace Experts Reveal 3 Phrases for a Happier Life

Finland and Denmark have seemingly cracked the code to living a happy life. These two nations consistently rank at the top of the World Happiness Report, with Finland holding the number one spot for seven consecutive years.

To understand their success, We (CNBC) interviewed Finnish and Danish business leaders and psychologists. Their insights revealed some common phrases that encapsulate their positive and optimistic outlooks, especially during tough times. Here are three key phrases that can help you lead a happier life.

‘Whatever You Leave Behind, You Will Find in Front of You’

One of the core philosophies in Finland is tackling problems head-on to prevent them from growing. The phrase “Whatever you leave behind, you will find in front of you” is a reminder that unattended issues will resurface. Anni Hallila, head of people and culture at Finnish manufacturing company Framery, explains that addressing problems immediately can prevent future complications.

For instance, if a friend makes an inappropriate joke, ignoring it might imply acceptance, leading to repeated behavior. Hallila emphasizes that dealing with issues as they arise is the only way to prevent them from becoming bigger problems. This proactive approach helps maintain a peaceful and respectful environment, contributing to overall happiness.

‘Pyt med det’

In Denmark, a popular phrase helps people manage stress and maintain mental well-being: “Pyt med det.” This translates to “It doesn’t matter” or “Don’t worry about it.” Meik Wiking, CEO of the Happiness Research Institute, describes it as a profound acceptance and release of worry. It’s about acknowledging that some things are beyond our control and choosing not to let them affect our peace of mind.

Wiking points out that more than 25% of Americans experience stress that harms their mental health and productivity, often due to worrying about uncontrollable circumstances. Adopting the mindset of “Pyt med det” can help mitigate this stress. It serves as a reminder not to sweat the small stuff and to move forward with grace and resilience, even in the face of significant challenges.

‘Some Have Happiness, Everyone Has Summer’

In a world where social media often showcases only the best moments of others, it’s easy to feel self-conscious or envious. Finnish people use the phrase “Some have happiness, everyone has summer” to remind themselves that everyone experiences difficult times and that comparing oneself to others is futile. Finnish psychologist Frank Martela highlights that this phrase, which has been used for over a hundred years, signifies that better days will always come.

Martela explains that life’s ups and downs are natural. While today might be tough, tomorrow could bring joy. This optimistic outlook helps Finns stay hopeful and maintain perspective, knowing that just like summer inevitably follows winter, good times will follow bad ones. This belief fosters resilience and a positive attitude towards life’s challenges.

Conclusion

The lessons from Finland and Denmark reveal that a happy life often comes down to mindset and approach. By addressing issues promptly, letting go of worries, and maintaining an optimistic outlook, you can enhance your overall well-being. Integrating these simple yet powerful phrases into your daily life can help you navigate challenges with positivity and resilience, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.