The World's Happiest Country : The Concept of "Sisu"
Despite reaching our limits, we can find a force within us to keep going. For Finns, this inner strength is known as sisu.
According to the World Happiness Report 2023, Finland has been ranked the happiest country in the world. Is the Finnish concept of sisu the key to their happiness?
"Sisu" (pronounced "see-su") is a Finnish concept that refers to the strength of will, girt, determination and perseverance, especially in the face of adversity. It's a quality that is highly valued in Finnish culture and is considered to be one of the key factors in the Finnish national character. Sisu is difficult to translate, but it is considered the "second wind" of energy or determination that motivates you to persist, even when you feel like giving up on your goals.
The spirit of sisu is about pushing on, never giving up, beating the odds, and holding oneself accountable for high standards. Sisu is often considered almost magical because it empowers people to achieve what others might perceive as impossible. During the Winter War of 1939-1940, Finnish soldiers relied on Sisu's incredible mental fortitude to overcome impossible odds and retain their independence.
Mentally strong people understand that failure is an event that could happen to anyone, not a reflection of who they are. They let their perseverance define them, not their failures. Sisu reminds me of Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Tap into the immense power within you to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
Thank you for visiting my post. Please leave a comment, I would love to hear your thoughts on this topic.
Ann.
References
Lahti, E., (2019). Embodied fortitude: An introduction to the Finnish construct of sisu. International Journal of Wellbeing, 9(1), 61-82. doi:10.5502/ijw.v9i1.672
Nylund, J.
(2018). Sisu: The Finnish Art of Courage. Running Press Adult
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