Finnishness is about how people live and behave in Finland. The Finnish culture affects people’s attitudes, values and it can be seen in the daily routines.
Nature is very important in Finland. The country has many forests, thousands of lakes and four seasons. Finns spend a lot of time in nature to relax, unwind, exercise and to enjoy the sounds of nature. Many Finns have a summer cottage (mökki) where they go on bank holidays and for longer periods during summer, especially during mid summer (juhannus). Finns often go to their cottages with family or friends.
The sauna is one of the most important and well known part of Finnish culture. Many homes have their own sauna and Finns go there often. Cottages also usually have a sauna and Finns go in the lake or snow to cool off during their sauna sessions. Sauna is a great place to detox, relax and calm the body and mind. Friends and family often sauna together and it’s believed, the most important conversations happen in the sauna, but also Finns value silence and don’t find silent moments awkward but rather peaceful.
Another key pillar in the Finnish culture is sisu. Sisu means inner strength, not giving up even when life gets difficult and the road seems dark. Due to the history of Finland, people are used to facing challenges and continuing forward without complaining. In my day to day life, I notice sisu in Finns. I see it as being patient, strong and determined, especially in the long and dark winter months.
Everyday life in Finland is simple and made to be very practical. Everything is efficient and works. From my experiences, Finns follow rules and respect each other. Equality is a big thing in Finland and throughout decades Finns have pushed for equal rights despite the gender, race or status. Teachers and students are allowed to be informal while talking to each other, I believe it makes the bond real and meaningful. Us Finns believe whether it’s my boss or a worker in my local supermarket, everyone is treated respectfully and the hierarchy doesn’t affect it.
Coffee is a big part of Finnish everyday life. Finns drink several cups of coffee a day and often drink their coffee black to enjoy the bitter taste. Coffee breaks are common at work and in school, they are an important social moment.
In conclusion, Finnishness is being connected to nature, staying calm and strong. Although Finns are often not social butterflies, I believe once you get close with a Finn, you will have a loyal friend for the rest of your life. Finnishness can come off cold and quiet at first, but it is deep and meaningful once you get close.
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