Tuesday, April 6, 2010

The Happiest Place on Earth

Disney World claims to be "the happiest place on earth," but the real area for human bliss comes from a seemingly dreary, cold, mediocre country. (Hint: it's not the U.S. which ranks an unimpressive #23).

It's also not a tropical paradise with palm trees and beautiful beaches. (Fiji ranks more than 50 spots below Iceland in worldwide happiness rankings).

The happiest place taxes its people at between 50 - 70% of income. Ironically, this perceived negative is the source of their happiness. Give up? Read on.

Denmark ranks #1. Even with higher taxes: the Danes have a thing called "Jante-lov," which basically means, "You're no better than anyone else." Since an accountant can end up taking home as much money as a garbage collector, people don't choose careers based on income or status.

See everyone as one and don't worry, be happy (or "hygge" in Danish). 92% of Danes say they regularly sing, dance, socialize, even deliberately laugh with fellow Danes, regardless of status. It's not about the stuff, it's about the trust in their fellow man; seeing each other as truly equal, and reveling in relationships, spells bliss.

Bliss is not about money, power, or status. You don't need to move to Denmark to find bliss either. Don't worry, be hygge!

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