22. April 2026 – fbs (youtube)
Today our Culture Vultures conversation explores “Happiness Across Cultures – same word, different worlds?
Inspired by Florence’s recent trip to Finland, we will take a closer look at a fascinating fact: Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world for the 9th year in a row in the World Happiness Report. So, what’s behind it? And perhaps even more interestingly: How do Finns themselves define happiness?
Unlocked sales booths and the well-known “handshake is enough” mentality – just two examples she encountered that reflect a deeply rooted, trust-based way of engaging with others.
Is happiness shaped by the gap between expectations and reality? By a certain modesty in what we hope for – and gratitude for what we have? Is it about valuing “enough” over “more”- things like peace, meaningful work, trust and a sense of contentment? Florence observed a quiet friendliness – less comparison, more ease with oneself and others. Could that be part of the foundation?
Where does your country rank – and what does that really tell us? And more importantly: What can we learn from different cultural perspectives on happiness?
More about Bettina Andresen Guimarães: https://www.authenticwow.com/bettina-a-g/