People who live in some places are happier than others. But if you move to a happy country, happy city or happy district, will it make you feel better? And what can do if you can't uproot from your current home, can you make sad spaces happier?
Dan Buettner introduces us to his "Blue Zones", and explains why these places score so highly in wellbeing surveys. Helen Russell tells her story of moving to one of the happiest nations on earth...in bleak midwinter. And Texan Jason Roberts admits he had to break the city laws to make his neighborhood in Dallas a bit nicer.
For further reading:
Helen Russell - The Year of Living Danishly: Uncovering the Secrets of the World's Happiest Country.
Dan Buettner - The Blue Zones of Happiness: Lessons From the World's Happiest People.
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09/19/22 • 31 min
16 Listeners
The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos - Move to Your Happy Place
Transcript Summary
In the episode "Move to Your Happy Place," the author shares her experience of moving to Denmark and explores the Danish lifestyle as a means to find happiness and work-life balance. She documents the prioritization of free time, strong family and social connections, and the significance of hobbies and play in Danish culture. The concept of "huga," meaning cozy togetherness, is discussed, along with concerns about its commercialization. Danish norms, like Jante's Law, discourage social comparison and showing off. Trust in society is high, with Danes even leaving their babies outside unattended. Studies show that immigrants to Denmark adopt Danish levels of trust and happiness within a few years. The episode also features the story of Jason Roberts, a Texan inspired by the vibrant streets and lifestyle in Europe, who started initiatives to revive his neighborhood. The Better Block Foundation, his nonprofit, helps other communities make small changes to transform their spaces and encourage local governments to make permanent improvements. It is emphasized that changing one's surroundings and optimizing their environment can significantly impact happiness. The episode concludes by suggesting that if you are not living a happy life where you are, you should consider moving to a new location.
Transcript
Pushkin. When you think of living in the big city and what do you fear a size about. Is it endless happy hours in Chica, cocktail bars or branch at fancy restaurants, in invitations to gallery openings. It's possible that Carrie Bradshaw haskewed a lot of our expectations, but also brought into that fantasy of the city life and sex in the city, but relocated to Britain. This is Helen Russell, a fellow budding Carrie Bradshaw. I was living in work
Move to Your Happy Place Top Questions Answered
How did Helen Russell's move to Denmark initially make her feel?
Helen Russell initially felt unhappy due to the unfamiliarity and cold weather in Denmark.
What did Helen Russell discover about Danish culture while writing her memoir?
Helen Russell discovered that Danish culture emphasizes free time and work-life balance.
How many hours per week does the average Dane work?
The average Dane works 33 hours per week.
What takes precedence in Danish society?
In Danish society, family and social connections take precedence.
What are some valued activities in Danish culture?
Danish culture values activities like having coffee and participating in clubs.
What is the concept of "hygge" in Danish culture?
"Hygge" is the concept of warm, cozy time, which holds importance in Danish culture, especially during the long winter months.
What is Jante's Law in Danish society?
Jante's Law is a principle in Danish society that discourages social comparison and showing off.
What is the level of trust among Danes?
79% of Danes report trust in most people, indicating that trust is a key aspect of Danish culture.
How do immigrants to Denmark adapt to the Danish lifestyle?
Immigrants quickly adopt Danish levels of trust and happiness when they assimilate into the Danish lifestyle.
What impact can immersion in the Danish lifestyle have?
Immersion in the Danish lifestyle can lead to increased happiness.
What did Jason Roberts do to transform his neighborhood in Dallas, Texas?
Jason Roberts organized events and engaged the community to transform his neighborhood in Dallas, Texas.
What are some initiatives undertaken by Jason Roberts?
Jason Roberts revived a historic theater, transformed a block with pop-up cafes and bike lanes, and created outdoor spaces for community interaction.
How can small improvements and community initiatives enhance a neighborhood's happiness?
Small improvements and community initiatives can bring people together and enhance the overall happiness of a neighborhood.
Which areas are considered "blue zones"?
"Blue zones" include Okinawa, Sardinia, Costa Rica, and Loma Linda, California.
What habits do people in "blue zones" share?
People in "blue zones" share habits such as following plant-based diets, engaging in regular physical activity, having strong social connections, and using strategies to avoid overeating.
What factors contribute to longevity and happiness in blue zones?
The environment and community play significant roles in promoting longevity and happiness in blue zones.
What does Dan Butner believe is more effective in promoting well-being?
Dan Butner believes that focusing on environmental factors rather than individual interventions is more effective in promoting well-being.
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