Workplace happiness is more than just a perk, it’s a key component to overall business success. Companies around the globe are increasingly recognizing the importance of employee well-being. However, Scandinavian countries like Denmark and Sweden stand out as leaders in fostering workplace happiness. But this is not just a Scandinavian secret anymore.
Studies show that happier employees are more engaged, productive, and less likely to leave their jobs. In fact, organizations that focus on employee well-being had a 30% lower rate of voluntary departures. Understanding how to create a happy, thriving work environment can be the strategic advantage your company needs.
So, what can we learn from Scandinavia’s workplace happiness philosophy? And how can you bring these insights into your organization?
What is Arbejdsglæde?
In Scandinavia, there’s a unique concept called arbejdsglæde—a Danish word that translates to “happiness at work.” Unlike common HR terms such as employee engagement or satisfaction, arbejdsglæde is about the deep, intrinsic joy of working. This word for workplace happiness only exists in Scandinavia.
This concept goes beyond traditional employee satisfaction surveys or performance bonuses. Arbejdsglæde focuses on fostering a positive emotional environment where employees find joy in their daily tasks. It is a long-term investment in both the employee and the organization. Instead of motivating people to work harder, it is about helping them find joy in what they do daily.
Why is happiness at work so important?
Workplace happiness or arbejdsglæde is essential to our lives as we spend the majority of our time working. Our jobs occupy 13 years of our life, which is more time than we spend with friends, family and on hobbies in a lifetime!
Therefore, if we spend all this time working, we should at least be doing something that makes us happy. Also, happiness in the workplace contributes to a person’s happiness in life. A meaningful job is one of three things that contribute to happiness in life. In addition to an affectionate romantic relationship and valuable friendships.
When looking at the business perspective, the numbers speak for themselves. In fact, happier employees are 13% more productive. But how do the Scandinavians achieve employee happiness?
What can we learn from the Scandinavians?
Scandinavian countries have embedded happiness into their workplace culture. Happiness at work in Scandinavia can be tied to 3 main reasons: work-life balance, transparent decision-making and prioritizing well-being. They provide employees with freedom, trust and equality in the workplace.
1. Flexible work policies to boost work-life balance
A 40-hour work week is not the standard in Scandinavia. These countries have been experimenting with 6-hour work days or 4-day work weeks with overall positive results. Denmark has one of the shortest work weeks in Europe, an average of 33 hours per week.
People can spend more time with their friends and family or on leisure activities. This contributes to employee happiness and well-being. It also reduces burnout as it allows employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
What you can do: Introduce flexible work policies like remote working options or flexible hours, allowing employees to balance personal and professional responsibilities better.
2. Transparent decision-making to build trust
Scandinavian companies operate with flat hierarchies and open communication channels. Employees are given a voice in decision-making processes. This promotes trust and a sense of ownership over their work. Transparency boosts morale and encourages employees to be more engaged, as they feel their opinions and ideas matter.
What you can do: Encourage transparent communication by involving employees in decisions that impact their work. Regular feedback sessions can help build this culture of openness.
3. Prioritizing employee well-being with breaks and social spaces
In Sweden, “fika” breaks, short, regular coffee breaks, are part of the culture. These breaks encourage employees to step away from their desks, relax, and build personal relationships with colleagues. “Fika” is more than just a coffee break. It represents a time for employees to recharge and reduce stress.
What You Can Do: Create wellness programs that encourage regular breaks, mental health support, and physical wellness activities. Design workspaces that promote movement and social interaction.
The key ingredients to workplace happiness
So, what really makes us happy at work? According to Alexander Kjerulf, a workplace happiness expert, the answer lies in two critical factors: results and relationships.
“Results” refers to the satisfaction that comes from being good at your job and making meaningful contributions. When employees feel competent and recognized for their efforts, they experience a deep sense of accomplishment.
The second factor, “relationships,” is equally important. Liking and trusting your colleagues creates a supportive and enjoyable work environment. Social connections are crucial for maintaining happiness at work. After all, people who enjoy spending time with their colleagues are more likely to stay engaged and motivated.
Why should we focus on arbejdsglæde?
Focusing on arbejdsglæde is about creating a nicer workplace and driving measurable business outcomes. Happier employees are more productive, more loyal, and more creative, leading to tangible benefits for the organization.
When people feel good at work, they perform better.
This connection between happiness and performance is supported by data. Disengaged employees cost the global economy a staggering $8.8 trillion annually. On the flip side, research shows that happy employees are 13% more productive. In other words, investing in employee happiness isn’t just a nice-to-have—it directly impacts the bottom line.
Beyond productivity, workplace culture plays an increasingly important role in employee retention. Companies offering greater flexibility experience not only higher productivity but also an improved work-life balance for employees. 82% of employees say that the ability to work from anywhere has made them happier.
Organizations should create a culture where employees feel competent, connected, and truly engaged.
Investing in employee well-being for the long term
The Scandinavian model of workplace happiness offers more than just feel-good principles. It provides a clear roadmap for fostering long-term success. By embracing arbejdsglæde, organizations improve the well-being of their employees and enhance productivity, creativity, and retention. These are tangible business outcomes that go beyond the surface.
It’s time to rethink how we approach employee engagement. Organizations should invest in creating environments where employees feel valued, trusted, and empowered. The benefits of prioritizing employee well-being are clear: they lead to happier employees who are more committed and productive.
As you look to the future, ask yourself: What small changes can you introduce to align your organization with the Scandinavian philosophy? The steps you take today will shape the happiness and success of your workplace tomorrow.
