Scandinavia's Happiness Secret: Trust, Community, and a 70% Effort Level

Scandinavia's Happiness Secret: Trust, Community, and a Shared Vision Scandinavia consistently ranks among the world's happiest places, a fact explored by travel writer Simon Reeve in a recent interview on the Lorraine show. Reeve, who recently completed a new series exploring the region, attributes this happiness to several key factors. He points to a high level of trust among Scandinavians, noting that "Scandinavians will say they have a very high level of trust in other people. Their society, even their politicians in government, believe it or not." This trust extends to a strong sense of community, supported by government subsidies for various clubs and associations. Reeve emphasizes the importance of community involvement, stating that people "feel part of their community." The government's active role in fostering this sense of belonging is a key element, according to Reeve. He highlights the government's recognition that "it's key to people being happy." This holistic approach, combining societal trust and government support for community initiatives, creates a unique environment conducive to happiness, according to Reeve's observations. The interview also touches on the concept of a 70% effort level, a philosophy embraced by some Scandinavians to avoid burnout. This suggests that a balance between productivity and well-being is a cornerstone of their societal values.