Did you know there was a World Happiness Report? The current report for 2022 can be found on their website. In the graphs displayed on country ranking, you will see the United States ranks as number 16, Finland takes first place, and Denmark is in the 2nd spot on the chart, which they have held respectively for the last five years.
“The report uses global survey data to report on how people evaluate their own lives in more than 150 countries around the world, with the ranking based on a three-year average. Key variables that contribute to explaining people’s life evaluations include gross domestic product per capita, healthy life expectancy, generosity, social support, freedom to make life choices, and perceptions of corruption.”-(Bloomberg)
Denmark (The Danes) whether their lengthy, dark winters by gathering with friends to share a warm drink or a warm meal. The word they use for the feelings associated with those moments is hygge (hoo-gah). Hygge helps them offset the impact of enjoying less sunlight than their counterparts at lower latitudes. By circling a simple table with loved ones, their hearts are nourished.
I took time to research the countries ranking high on the happiness report to see what they were doing to rank so high on happiness. Some of the things I think all of them have in common is how to appreciate life, support each other, and gather together as a community.
Gathering together as a community is the strongest way to build a solid foundation. We will face difficult days and challenges to weigh heavy on our shoulders and hearts. However, with community encouraging one another and nourishment to each other’s souls, together we are able to accomplish so much.
My husband and I grew up in the same town at the same time. We share many similarities. Talking about growing up, however, is a little different because of our households. However, the things we did had similarities. I was an only child growing up; he had several siblings sharing space with him. We played outside until the street lights came on, and we had to head home. The neighborhoods took care of everyone! People would gather on the front porches to talk, and safety was always felt.
What do you think about happiness in your community? Do you have a way to check the happiness level in your community? I am always looking at ways to improve happiness. Are there things that get in the way of your happiness? What makes you happy?
