Finns are incredibly proud when it comes to things like sauna, salmiakki or ice hockey, but can not take a compliment when being ranked as the happiest country in the world. It’s not that they disagree, it’s just in their nature to make self-deprecating jokes. Even when it comes to our personal achievements, we tend to downplay or avoid drawing attention. When visiting someone, we don’t want to cause any inconvenience. We will have a cup of coffee if the rest do, but there is no need to make coffee just for us.
Finns appreciate the simplicity in life. Chasing big dreams or striving for more is not the default mindset. Finns do work hard but not to get fast gratification. Finnish design and architecture isn’t flashy either. Take a look at Artek chairs or Marimekko Unikko print. The designs may not impress everyone, but a Finn can appreciate the beauty in simplicity. This plainness extends to our food as well, macaroni and minced meat making one of the most beloved dishes, makaronilaatikko.
The Finnish tendency to pessimism must be in the DNA. Excepting the worst seems to be a soothing method for some. It is common to save up for a bad day, we feel at ease when we are prepared for the worst. And when things turn out perfectly, say the weather might have turned out good or the strawberries are finally ripe, Finns don’t necessarily jump for joy. Instead, we can enjoy the feeling of content in silence. Silence in general is common to a Finn. It is perfectly fine to be quiet next to a stranger, just as it is with a family member. In addition to keeping to oneself, small talk can get awkward with a Finnish person. But I guess that’s part of life. At least the life of a Finn.
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