Lagom

1. Lagom: Finding Balance in All Things

Lagom has no equivalent in the English language, but it loosely means “not too little, not too much, but just enough”.

Defining Lagom. Lagom is a Swedish concept that encapsulates the idea of balance, moderation, and "just enough." It's about finding the sweet spot in life, avoiding extremes, and appreciating the value of contentment. This philosophy extends to various aspects of life, from work and consumption to relationships and personal well-being.

Historical Roots. The term "lagom" is believed to have originated from the Viking phrase "laget om," which meant "around the team." This referred to the practice of sharing a horn of mead, ensuring everyone got a fair share. While the etymology is debated, the anecdote perfectly illustrates the core principle of lagom: fairness and shared resources.

Beyond Materialism. Lagom goes beyond mere frugality or minimalism. It's a mindset that encourages conscious decision-making, prioritizing quality over quantity, and valuing experiences over possessions. It's about creating a life that is sustainable, both for the individual and for the planet.

2. Work-Life Balance: The Swedish Way

If you do it right, you’ll spend a lagom amount of time on it.

Prioritizing Well-being. Swedes place a high value on work-life balance, recognizing that well-being is essential for productivity and overall happiness. This is reflected in their shorter work hours, generous vacation time, and emphasis on taking regular breaks. The average Swede works 1,644 hours per year, compared to the OECD average of 1,776 hours, yet Sweden ranks sixth in the global competitiveness index.

Trust and Flexibility. A key element of the Swedish work culture is trust. Employees are given autonomy and flexibility to manage their work, with the understanding that they will deliver results. This fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership, leading to increased job satisfaction and productivity.

Fredagsmys. The Swedish tradition of "fredagsmys," or cozy Friday, exemplifies the importance of downtime and relaxation. It involves spending the evening with loved ones, enjoying comfort food, and unwinding after a long week. This ritual reinforces the value of disconnecting from work and prioritizing personal connections.

3. Fika: More Than Just a Coffee Break

More than just topping up your coffee, fika is about an exchange, a connection; about unplugging from the task at hand and being present with your colleagues in true lagom style.

A Social Institution. Fika is a deeply ingrained part of Swedish culture, representing more than just a coffee break. It's a social ritual that encourages people to pause, connect, and recharge. In traditional Swedish workplaces, employees enjoy a 15-minute fika every morning and afternoon, in addition to their lunch break.

Benefits of Fika. Fika provides numerous benefits, including:

• Reduced stress
• Increased productivity
• Improved communication
• Stronger relationships

The Fika Experience. A typical fika involves coffee, pastries (such as cinnamon buns), and conversation. It's a time to step away from work, relax, and engage with colleagues or friends. The act of sharing food and conversation fosters a sense of community and belonging.

4. Equality and Family Life: A Cornerstone of Lagom

Lagom is in the little things…

Gender Equality. Sweden is a pioneer in gender equality, with policies and practices that support both parents in balancing work and family life. This includes generous parental leave, subsidized childcare, and flexible working arrangements. The percentage of working women in Sweden is the highest in the European Union, at 78.3%.

Latte Dads. The term "lattepappor," or latte dads, refers to Swedish fathers who actively participate in childcare and household responsibilities. This reflects a cultural shift towards shared parenting and a recognition of the importance of fathers' involvement in their children's lives.

Benefits of Equality. Research shows that gender equality and family-friendly policies have numerous benefits, including:

• Happier parents
• Healthier children
• Increased productivity
• Stronger economies

5. Sustainable Consumption: Less is More

If you know what’s ‘just enough’, why go overboard?

Conscious Consumerism. Lagom promotes a mindful approach to consumption, encouraging people to buy less, choose quality over quantity, and prioritize sustainable products. This involves considering the environmental and social impact of purchases and making conscious decisions to reduce waste.

Recycling and Reuse. Sweden is a leader in recycling, with a highly efficient waste management system that minimizes landfill waste. This includes initiatives such as:

• Deposit refund programs for bottles and cans
• Separate waste collection for different materials
• Energy recovery from waste incineration

Köpstopp. The concept of "köpstopp," or purchase stop, involves committing to a period of not buying anything new. This encourages people to re-evaluate their consumption habits and appreciate what they already have. It's an exercise in mindful living and a way to break free from the cycle of consumerism.

6. Embracing the Outdoors: Friluftsliv

There is no bad weather, only bad clothes.

Connecting with Nature. "Friluftsliv" is a Norwegian term that encapsulates the Swedish love of the outdoors and the importance of spending time in nature. It's about embracing the natural world, regardless of the weather, and finding joy in outdoor activities.

Allemansrätten. The "allemansrätten," or right of public access, grants everyone the freedom to roam freely in nature, regardless of land ownership. This allows people to enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, and foraging without restrictions.

Benefits of Friluftsliv. Spending time in nature has numerous benefits for physical and mental health, including:

• Reduced stress
• Improved mood
• Increased creativity
• Enhanced immune function

7. Socializing the Lagom Way: Community and Connection

Home is the most important place in the world.

Home Gatherings. Swedes often prefer socializing at home, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere for connecting with friends and family. This can involve activities such as:

• Fika
• Potlucks
• Game nights
• Movie nights

Joining Clubs and Associations. Swedes have a strong tradition of joining clubs and associations, which provide opportunities for social interaction and shared interests. This can range from sports teams and book clubs to choirs and community organizations.

Neighborliness. Building strong relationships with neighbors is an important aspect of Swedish culture. This can involve activities such as:

• Participating in community events
• Helping with household tasks
• Sharing resources

8. An Honest Approach to Happiness: Feeling All Emotions

Happiness in a sustainable sense is not about extremes.

Accepting Imperfection. Lagom encourages an honest and realistic approach to happiness, recognizing that life is not always perfect and that it's okay to experience a range of emotions. This involves accepting both positive and negative feelings and learning to cope with challenges in a healthy way.

Mindfulness and Presence. Practicing mindfulness and being present in the moment can help cultivate a sense of contentment and appreciation for the simple things in life. This involves paying attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment and focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future.

Sustainable Happiness. The goal of lagom is not to achieve constant elation but to cultivate a sustainable sense of well-being that is rooted in balance, moderation, and connection. This involves prioritizing relationships, health, and meaningful experiences over material possessions and external validation.

Last updated: February 28, 2025