Happiness, according to a Danish parent, is “freedom from dread.” It was a persistent phrase. It felt particularly clear, not because it was poetic.
It isn’t the tropical climate, perpetual optimism, or charisma of the people that make Scandinavia consistently the happiest country in the world. It all comes down to structure, trust, and a purposefully planned pace of life. Being able to go about your day without worrying about unexpected social isolation, medical bills, or losing your job is often a sign of happiness in places like Helsinki or Bergen.