Helsinki, Finland
My Answers to the World Happiness Survey
The happiness ranking asks people to rate their lives on a ladder from 0 to 10. Finland won again. I'd like to submit my answers.
Finland is the world’s happiest country for the ninth year in a row, followed by Iceland, Denmark and Costa Rica. The ranking comes from people rating their own lives on a ladder from 0 to 10. Nobody asked me, so I answered anyway.
My Answers
Imagine a ladder from 0 to 10, where 10 is the best possible life. Which step are you on? Step 11. I brought my own ladder.
And in five years? Step 12. Same ladder. I’m adding a step.
If you were in trouble, is there someone you could count on? Yes. Me. I’ve never let me down.
Did you smile or laugh a lot yesterday? Yes. All day, and especially in photos.
Did you worry a lot yesterday? Once, when lunch was late. It turned out fine. Lunch always does.
My Results
My average comes to 11.5. Finland’s is about 7.76. So I’m happier than the happiest country in the world, by almost four steps.
The survey people would say the ladder only goes up to 10. I’d say that’s a very short ladder, and they should get a better one.
Still, I want to see what Finland is doing right. I’m told it’s saunas, forests, lakes and a lot of reading. I’ve booked a trip. I’ll be taking my ladder.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Finland keep winning?
I asked a man in Helsinki. He said one word, sauna, and went back to his book.
Can you really score 11?
Not officially. Unofficially, I'm on 11 right now, and still climbing.