Would we want to be as happy as Finland?

Being happy is essential for countries, organisations, and individuals, as it is linked to improved well-being and higher standards of living. This blog explores why Finland is one of the happiest countries and what lessons we can learn, particularly regarding the significance of community and shared purpose—and how to foster these elements. I believe that any organisation can benefit from strengthening its sense of community, as the benefits outlined below demonstrate. Additionally, I think this could lead to increased productivity, which is a significant concern for organisations and the UK as a whole.

For eight consecutive years, Finland has topped the UN-sponsored World Happiness Report and again this year, 2025. This ranking is based on a range of indicators, including income, social support, healthy life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and perceptions of corruption. The report emphasises that Finns benefit from a robust welfare system, widespread trust in government and institutions, and ready access to nature—all elements that contribute to a high quality of life.

I have always assumed that it was due to the high standard of living, good health, and supportive welfare system, all of which I would like to see in the UK, plus a strong sense of community. While watching the first episode of Simon Reeve's new series on Scandinavia on BBC2 (available on iPlayer), I realised that a darker reason might explain the strong sense of community that helps them achieve their top place in happiness. Research suggests that a strong sense of community contributes to improved well-being and increased happiness among individuals.

The links between community and well-being

Research indicates a robust link between community belonging and a range of positive outcomes, spanning happiness, mental and physical health, and broader social benefits. As communities foster environments where individuals feel cared for and valued, the ripple effects include not only improved individual well-being but also a more resilient and thriving collective.

A substantial body of research suggests that individuals who feel connected to their community tend to be happier, healthier, and better equipped to manage life's stresses. Here are links to two different papers that have analysed a range of research on the subject Well-being is more than happiness and life satisfaction: a multidimensional analysis of 21 countries and Co-creating community well-being initiatives: what is the evidence and how do they work? both open-access papers if you want to find out more.

Summarising the research, there are three key areas:

Emotional and Mental Health Benefits

Numerous studies have demonstrated that individuals with strong social connections tend to experience higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction. When people feel a sense of belonging, they also report lower levels of anxiety and depression. This benefit goes beyond just feeling good; it fosters resilience by offering emotional support during challenging times. Research on community well-being initiatives shows that when communities come together to create solutions, this collaborative spirit can lead to significantly improved mental health outcomes and overall psychological well-being.

Physical Health and Longevity

Being part of a supportive community not only enhances mental and emotional health but is also linked to improved physical health. Engaging with others and participating in community activities can lower stress levels, which, over time, may reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease. These physical benefits are often attributed to the mechanisms of social support, where the collective care found within a community promotes healthier behaviours and offers practical assistance during health crises. While much of this research originates from public health and epidemiology, there is a consensus that social connectedness acts as a protective factor, contributing to longer, healthier lives.

Social and Behavioural Impacts

Belonging to a community enhances social capital, which means individuals are more likely to engage in altruistic actions, participate in local initiatives, and contribute to a safer and more cohesive environment. When people are part of networks built on trust and shared purpose, they are more inclined to volunteer, collaborate on local projects, and support one another. These actions reinforce both individual and collective well-being. Furthermore, the reciprocal relationship between personal health and community health fosters an environment where progress in one area encourages progress in the other.

A Different Perspective of Finland

I found Simon Reeve's episode on Finland, part of his broader series "Scandinavia with Simon Reeve," to be fascinating and informative. The episode provides an in-depth examination of how Finland's conscription system serves as both a practical tool for national defence and a unifying ritual in Finnish society.

In the programme, Reeve meets young Finnish male citizens who are called up for mandatory military service and females who have chosen to be involved voluntarily. You see the rigorous training routines (including dropping through ice holes), which show the sense of discipline, resilience, and national pride they feel. The episode reveals that, in Finland, conscription is not merely about defence; it is also a formative experience that strengthens social bonds, instils a deep sense of civic duty, and contributes to the country's robust national identity. Citizens have an ongoing responsibility to defend their country. It illustrates how mandatory service helps Finland maintain a spirit of unity and preparedness in the face of geopolitical challenges, which is especially relevant given its long border with Russia. The very real and current fear they have is illustrated by the nuclear bunker, which is ready for use and is part of Father Christmas's grotto.

The shared enemy helps forge a sense of community spirit. The programme provides a vivid picture of how Finland blends modernity with enduring traditions, offering insights into the country's social fabric that go far beyond conventional military narratives. It includes, for example, a segment on a Finnish Forest School, where small children play outside unless the temperature falls below minus 30 degrees Centigrade!

The following is part of an interview with Simon Reeve in Wanderlust, discussing the entire series.

" Survey after survey shows that they are the happiest countries(Scandinavia) in the world. What would you put that down to? What is the secret?" Part of Simon Reeve's answer:

"Well, I think it's pretty clear to me that it's about trust. Which is really not just something wishy-washy. It really matters. It means you feel comfortable around other people. It means you feel safe and secure where you live and in your country, and that's got a real definable value. "

What we can learn

The Finnish people trust one another to collaborate effectively in defence against common threats, forming bonds with strangers through their military service. This creates a strong sense of community.

This approach can be applied to organisations by providing opportunities for teamwork and ensuring that everyone understands and shares a common vision of how you will make the world a better place. It's essential to hire or involve individuals who align with this vision, as doing so will help build a strong community with all the associated benefits.

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