One of the most important aspects of Finnishness is honesty. Finns are usually direct and reliable, and silence is not seen as something uncomfortable. Growing up in Finland taught me that people don’t need to talk constantly to feel connected. Compared to Eastern European cultures, Finnish communication feels calmer and more reserved, but also trustworthy.
Nature plays a central role in Finnish life. Forests, lakes, and seasonal changes are always close, even in cities. Spending time outdoors in all weather feels normal here in Finland. This strong connection to nature reflects Finnish values of balance, simplicity, and respect for the environment.
Another important part of Finnish culture is independence. From a young age, people are trusted to take responsibility for themselves. This can be easily seen in everyday life, such as kids going to school on their own or people managing tasks independently. Growing up in Finland taught me self-reliance and respect for personal space, which are important element of Finnishness.
Growing up between different cultures has shaped how I see Finnishness. Having an Eastern European background while being raised in Finland has helped me notice cultural differences more clearly, but also similarities. It has made me more aware of how values, communication styles, and everyday habits are influenced by culture. Because of this Finnishness feels both familiar and something I can reflect on from a small distance, which has helped me understand it more deeply.
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