Finland: Journey from the U.S. to the Happiest Country in the World by a 28-Year-Old

Did you know in Finland, self-employed people can make up to $21,739 per quarter? This is way more than the $4,348 monthly corporate income. Here, entrepreneurs have big chances to succeed, making Finland truly stand out.

Jade Ventoniemi, once a NCAA player, left Florida’s heat to live among Finland’s serene nature. She noticed a huge shift in how Finland cares for everyone, different from the U.S. This communal focus deeply impacted her lifestyle.

Finland is impressively organized. There’s a lot of recycling, few people without homes, and great public transport anyone can use. Living here helped Jade start her own business. It’s clear Finland’s support offers big contrasts and plenty of opportunities.

If you want to know more about Jade’s change and how Finland has made her life better, check out CNBC’s feature.

Introduction to Life in Finland: The Happiest Country in the World

Finland is known for its unique blend of nature connection and strong community spirit. This combination makes it the happiest country in the world. Since 2018, the World Happiness Report has ranked Finland on top, highlighting its societal achievements.

When you step into Finnish Lapland, bracing -4 degrees Celsius welcomes you. This cold weather showcases the Finnish culture‘s adaptability and resilience. Finland’s success in happiness is also thanks to equal schools, fair homes, and a solid healthcare system.

Nature is central to life here. About a third of Finland is for reindeer, reflecting deep ties to the Sami culture. In Sami areas, like Samiland, you can join in on the reindeer herding and learn Sami traditions.

Finland is blessed with over 40 national parks offering natural beauty. People find joy in outdoor activities, like skiing in places like Levi. With 3 million saunas for just over 5 million people, Finns love to stay healthy and balanced.

Finns rate their happiness at 7.741, much higher than the UK and the US. This is tied to low homelessness, strong social and economic success, and over 100 leading global rankings. Finland seems to do a lot of things right.

Here’s a look at key data, comparing Finland with the UK and the US:

Finland sets an example in fair and eco-friendly living. It combines rich traditions with innovative social policies. As a result, Finland offers a lifestyle that many around the world admire. Want to explore the unique blend of nature and community spirit that makes Finland the happiest country in the world? Check out our feature article for insights on our website.

The Initial Move from the U.S. to Finland

Jade Ventoniemi, an ex-NCAA basketball player, thinks back on her start in Finland. Moving from Florida’s busy life to Finland’s peaceful nature was magical. The midnight sun and Finland’s unique natural scenes were big factors in her choice.

First Impressions: From Marshmallow-Like Trees to Midnight Sun

In 2017, Jade visited Finland and was awed by its beauty. She found joy and calm in the vast forests and clear lakes. The snow-covered trees looked like marshmallows, turning the place into a real-life fairytale.

Deciding Factors: Why I Moved to Finland

Several things led to moving to Finland. The chance for Jade’s husband to grow his basketball career started it all. But, what kept them there was Finland’s focus on wellbeing and community support.

Finland really cares about its people and the environment. Its happiness ranking by the UN for seven years in a row was impressive. The balanced life, Finland’s natural beauty, and the memorable midnight sun were major reasons for their move.

Embracing Finland’s Nature-Centric Lifestyle

Jade Ventoniemi loved the Finnish nature and outdoor life right away. It’s more than beautiful; it changes how we live and connect with our world.

How Being in Nature Became a Daily Tradition

Jade easily added nature to her daily routine. She enjoys walks in the peaceful Tapanila forest. What started as a fun thing turned into a daily must-do, all thanks to Finland’s well-kept trails and the long summer days.

Finnish people value outdoor time. Daycares end early, letting families enjoy evening nature walks together. This connection with nature boosts mental health and a local community feel.

Favorite Natural Spots: From Forest Trails to Scenic Lakes

Lake Vesijärvi is a gem for Jade and the locals. Its beauty and calm make it the perfect getaway. Jade loves the lake’s clear water, taking long walks there often.

Finland’s vast network of trails suits both the adventurers and those seeking peace. Lapland stands out with its unique eight seasons and the right for all to gather food and fish freely. This means everyone can enjoy the beautiful Finnish outdoors.

Finland’s dedication to nature’s upkeep keeps these spots beautiful and open for all. Whether new in town like Jade or a long-time resident, the chance to enjoy Finnish nature is a gift that forever refreshes the soul.

Experiencing the Finnish Winter: More Than Just Snow

A Finnish winter is truly unique, mixing calm, snow-filled scenery with fun outdoor things to do. Right as you land at Kittilä Airport, you might face temperatures as low as minus 4. It shows how cold weather is a big part of life here. Yet, Finland has been named the World’s Happiest Country since 2018. This is because of the people’s strong, joyful spirits despite the cold.

Outdoor Activities: Skiing, Hiking, and Swimming in Frozen Lakes

In Finland, everyone loves winter activities. Exploring the ski trails in Lapland or hiking in the national parks shows how beautiful cold weather can be. A special winter thrill is swimming in frozen lakes, followed by a sauna session. This activity isn’t just fun but also good for your health. With so many options, like skiing or icy lake swims, a Finnish winter is never boring.

Adjusting to Cold Weather: Tips and Tricks

Getting used to the Finnish winter is hard at first, but it’s doable with a little advice. Dressing in layers helps a lot. Start with a layer that wicks moisture, then add insulating layers, and top it all off with something waterproof. Don’t forget to keep your hands, head, and feet warm with quality gear. It’s also smart to do outdoor exercises to get used to the cold. And, sauna visits are a common and enjoyable way to warm up and relax. Doing as the locals do helps you not just survive but truly enjoy winter in Finland, even when it’s freezing.

Learning to Live with Finland’s Unique Seasons

The Finnish seasons vary greatly, giving people a special experience with their contrasts. Summers are warm and full of light, while winters are dark and snug. Each season brings new ways for everyone, including people like Jade Ventoniemi, to enjoy life.

Getting used to Finland’s weather is key for fitting in. The cold, dark winters push activities like sauna use and ice swimming inside. But in the bright summers, the sun never fully goes down. Days are long, perfect for outdoor fun like hikes and picking berries.

These traditions are more than just ways to pass the time. They connect people to nature and each other. Jade loves these activities because they make her understand and value Finland’s changing seasons. They also show how important working together and being strong are in Finnish society.

Living in Finland means dealing with both the bright, endless summer days and the cold, snowy winters. By embracing these extremes, you become part of the lively Finnish culture. This culture is what helps the Finnish people face their challenging seasons with cheer and unity.

Fitness Culture in Finland: Staying Active at All Ages

In Finland, everyone, from young kids to the elderly, loves staying active. They take part in many sports and activities. Cross-country skiing is especially popular. People of all ages enjoy gliding through the snowy landscape. This love for outdoor activities is a key part of Finnish life.

Finland’s approach to fitness is about staying active your whole life. From kids to seniors, moving is encouraged and made easy. Parks, sports centers, and community events help everyone stay healthy. This keeps the whole society fit and happy.

• Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world for five consecutive years.
• Public healthcare is often free, enhancing the sense of safety and well-being.
• Generous leave packages and free education create a supportive environment.

The country’s view on fitness is clear. Everyone should find it easy to stay active. So, health care is not a worry. Plus, there’s good transportation to help people move around easily. This approach makes exercise and outdoor fun a natural part of life.

In Finland’s schools, being active is just as important as your grades. Kids have plenty of time for breaks and games. This helps them grow up loving to move and keep fit.

Finnish workers get lots of time off, five weeks a year. This long break helps keep their work and personal lives balanced. It means they can spend more time doing what they love, staying fit and healthy. So, the whole Finnish way of life is built around staying active and happy. Curious about the fitness culture in Finland and how it contributes to the country’s happiness? Learn about staying active at all ages and the key components of Finland’s social welfare system on our website.

Community and Social Welfare: What Sets Finland Apart

Finland is known as the happiest country because of its strong community and social welfare. Its systems help everyone, from new moms to working folks, find support in a fair setting.

Support Systems for New Parents and Families

Finnish social welfare shines with its support for new parents. It ranks high in the world for care for expectant mothers. New parents benefit from long parental leaves, allowing them to care for their children with less money worries.

Accessible Public Services: Transportation, Healthcare, and Education

In Finland, access to public services is excellent. Education is free, backed with a government stipend, for everyone. For 18 years running, Finland has topped in education quality worldwide. Every school is top-notch, adding to its status as a leader. Plus, the teachers all hold at least a master’s, which helps maintain high standards.

Healthcare is key in Finland’s welfare, known for being efficient and open to all. The public transport system is also top-quality and affordable, making moving around easy.

The Role of Pay Transparency and Equitable Social Policies

Transparency in pay and fair policies play a big role in Finland. These principles keep society fair and trustworthy. Finland stands out in government transparency and is a great place for new businesses. Policies on fair pay ensure fairness everywhere, helping maintain order and harmony.

Finland’s commitment to these policies and services strengthens its communities. This, together with a focus on happiness, keeps it on top of the world in the happiness report.

Emotional Well-being: Friendships and Community Integration

In Finland, being emotionally well is linked to fitting into a close community and having real friends. When you move to a new place, like Finland, you have to learn new ways of socializing. But, making friends in Finland is special. It brings a deep sense of joy and belonging.

Finland focuses on building social skills from a young age, which helps create strong bonds. The country’s top-notch education system adds group work and yoga to teach teamwork and self-control. This early training leads to lifelong friendships and feeling part of a tight-knit community.

Friend-making starts in school, where kids have longer breaks to have fun with friends. This not only helps them do well in classes but also builds a strong set of friends. As kids get older, the Finnish education system supports their emotional health with a mix of academics, arts, sports, and music.

Jade Ventoniemi describes how Finns, though quiet at first, show big warmth once you get to know them. Trust is key in Finnish friendships. Their high trust in government and belief in helping friends in need show how strong their friendships are. This trust level and open government make Finland’s society very united.

The country also values time off work, giving employees five weeks’ vacation. This focus on balancing work and life makes people happier and more connected. It’s one reason Finland has been named the happiest place on earth for five years running.

With a well-organized society, caring schools, and a culture that treasures deep friendships, Finland is great for emotional health and making lasting social connections.

Comparing Life in Finland and the U.S.

Living in Finland is very different from life in the U.S. Both places have unique daily routines, social norms, and more. Jade Ventoniemi, sharing her views, points out why Finland ranks high in happiness for seven years straight.

Contrasts in Daily Life and Social Norms

The difference in pace and lifestyle between Finland and the U.S. is quite noticeable. Finland’s focus on nature brings a calm and balanced life. In America, the rush and stress are common.

In Finland, there’s strong trust and care for the community. Spaces there are open and welcoming, promoting togetherness. This creates a friendly and supportive environment.

Safety and Independence in Public Spaces

Finland leads in public safety and independence more than the U.S. Its towns and cities are made for everyone to move around safely. This feeling of being secure plays a big role in their happiness.

Another side of the coin is seen in many U.S. places, with public safety issues. This can affect how people feel and their general well-being every day.

The table below lets us compare how happy people of different ages are in Finland and the U.S. according to the World Happiness Report:

Comparing happiness and life satisfaction in the two countries shows clear differences. Finland excels in providing safety, community care, and freedom. This contributes to a higher quality of life. It helps us see what makes life in Finland so special and fulfilling.

Adapting to a New Culture: Challenges and Triumphs

Moving to another country is like stepping into the unknown. Jade Ventoniemi’s story in Finland shows both struggles and successes. Getting used to Finnish ways was tough, but it brought big rewards.

At first, Jade noticed how Finns like peace and their own space. This was different from the U.S., where talking and being social is common. She had to change how she interacted with others. But, this led to stronger friendships over time.

Jade also had to fit into Finland’s work-life balance. Finnish jobs are known for being flexible and caring about their workers. This is unlike some places with tougher work environments. The support from her workplace helped Jade balance her life well.

Learning Finnish was challenging but essential for fitting in. Yet, with hard work and support from others, Jade made progress. Joining local events and getting involved outdoors made her feel at home. It showed Finland’s community spirit.

Jade found joy in Finnish culture by taking part in local ways and enjoying the distinct seasons. Her story teaches us about being patient and open in a new culture. Today, she flourishes in a country celebrated for its people’s happiness. Adapting took effort, but it led to a rewarding journey.

Career Shift: From a Corporate Job in the U.S. to Entrepreneurship in Finland

In Finland’s vibrant business world, changing your career path to start your own business is a real journey. Jade Ventoniemi is a great example. She went from working in the U.S. to setting up a marketing firm in Finland.

Starting a Marketing Firm and Finding Fulfillment

She chose to start her business in Finland for many reasons. The country is known for welcoming new businesses. Its strong focus on education and innovation also helped.

She learned to work with the Finnish style, which values creativity and taking initiative. The education system there also encourages thinking in innovative ways. This mix really helped Jade feel fulfilled in her work.

Financial Realities: Comparing Earnings Then and Now

Jade noticed big differences in earnings between her job in the U.S. and her business in Finland. While a job in the U.S. meant steady pay and maybe more money at first, starting her own business showed promise of better long-term earnings and personal satisfaction.

Looking at the numbers, Jade’s shift in finances is clear:

Finnish culture is key to forming good business opportunities. The country’s focus on learning, community, and a balanced life helps a lot. Feeling fulfilled while starting a firm there shows Jade made a good choice in her career shift.

The Impact of Finland on My Personal and Professional Growth

Moving to Finland has greatly shaped my life and work. I faced unique challenges but found great satisfaction. Finland, often called the happiest place on Earth, focuses on well-being. This is thanks to its strong welfare, trust between people, and equal opportunities. These things are key for personal growth. They help build a supportive, positive space that supports deep thinking and toughing out hard times, which the Finns call ‘sisu’.

At work, I learned a lot from Finland’s modern ways and its belief in equality. The work culture is flexible, and everyone’s ideas matter. Being part of this for years has improved my leadership and helped me find a good work-life balance. Feeling empowered, I’ve ventured into my own business. Here, fairness and flexibility bring out the best in me and my team.

Finland’s care for everyone shines through its support for the community and innovative thinking. The high trust in the police and strong welfare systems are impressive. Initiatives like ‘housing first’ to help homeless people show a deep commitment to all. These values have shaped my idea of doing business. For me, caring for others is as important as success itself, which is a big part of my career growth.

In the end, Finland has not only changed me as a person but also improved what I offer at work. The support and culture here have taught me a lot. The experience has filled me with pride and happiness. It shows how living in the happiest place can truly be life-changing.