Every year, the World Happiness Report publishes a list of the happiest countries globally. Finland has consistently secured the top spot overall for the seventh consecutive year. However, for individuals under 30, Lithuania claimed the leading position.
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Junona Almonaitienė, an associate professor in the health psychology department at Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, expressed, "I think that it can be surprising. When you look from the United States, ... it's somewhere near Russia," a region often associated with danger.
"Lithuania regained its independence not so long ago — it was in 1990," noted Antanas Kairys, an associate professor in the department of general psychology at Vilnius University. "That means that young people under 30 have spent their life entirely in independent Lithuania while other age groups ... experienced the harsh reality of the Soviet Union."
Since gaining independence, Lithuania has made significant strides in its economy and national relations, including joining NATO and becoming a member of the European Union in 2004. "Lithuania had a really strong transformation of its economy and society, and I think the main factor of this happiness is that Lithuania is ... strong, safe and a modern democracy," Kairys emphasized.
Various aspects of Lithuania's culture and norms also contribute to the happiness of its youth.
They express Gratitude for their Current Circumstances
Kairys suggested that while comparison is often considered a thief of joy, for young people in Lithuania, it might actually enhance their happiness.
"I should mention that we have something to compare with... historically... youth can compare their own experience with experiences of parents or grandparents," he explained, noting that the older generations had to endure challenging times under the Soviet Union.
"We also have neighboring countries where there is much less freedom and opportunities, and this creates a possibility to compare and feel that we are living quite well," Kairys added.
While the United States has not experienced recent history similar to Lithuania's hardships, you can still cultivate gratitude in your own life. This could involve feeling proud of your work achievements compared to a previous job where you felt stuck, or appreciating the progress you've made after a divorce compared to a less fulfilling life in the past.
They prioritize spending Time with Family and Loved Ones
"Family ties are still very strong in our country," Almonaitienė noted. Many young Lithuanians live with their parents, and even if they work or study in another part of the country, Lithuania's small size allows them to easily visit their hometowns.
Moreover, older Lithuanians are known to support their children. "It's like insurance — young people always know that economically, they can also rely on their parents," Almonaitienė explained.
Since social connections are crucial for well-being, it's no surprise that familial bonds contribute to the happiness of young people.
Kairys suggested that if you feel a lack of social connections in your life, you can start by joining a volunteer group or picking up a hobby that allows you to interact with others. This is one way to meet people and build meaningful relationships.
"When we talk about people with many social connections, we should consider the depth of these connections, as it's not the quantity but the quality that matters," Kairys emphasized.
Gregory Sullivan, the program director of the Positive Coaching and Athletic Leadership master's program at the University of Missouri, previously described this kind of connection as a "3 a.m. friend," referring to someone you can call for help or advice in the middle of the night.
They live in the Present Moment
With neighboring countries often experiencing conflict and unrest, feeling grateful for Lithuania's upward trajectory is natural. This mindset helps people appreciate what they have and encourages them to make the most of it.
"There are sociological surveys that show many people in Lithuania feel stressed because of the possibility of war or invasion," Almonaitienė explained. "But what they usually do is try to live their lives in the present... not delaying enjoyment for the future."
While it's tempting to postpone your dream trip or learning a new hobby, allowing yourself to do these things now can enhance your sense of joy.
People in Lithuania feel a Sense of Opportunity
According to Kairys, the country's economic growth has not only increased the overall wealth of young people but has also created future prospects for them.
"This means they have the opportunity for education, travel, choosing leisure activities, and, if you look at the capital of Lithuania — Vilnius — you see young people everywhere doing what they love," Kairys remarked.
Education is another significant opportunity provider, enabling Lithuanians to acquire new skills and pursue various careers. "We have a high level of people with university or college degrees," Kairys added.
Happiness isn't something that Magically appears; it must be Nurtured
Some factors that contribute to feeling good are beyond your control.
According to Kairys, it's not that Lithuanian young people are doing something drastically different from their counterparts worldwide. Rather, it's the growth, independence, and opportunities within the country that provide them with a conducive environment for happiness. After all, how content can you be if you're contending with an unsupportive government and constant conflict?
Kairys also noted that while there are certainly unhappy individuals and those facing mental health challenges in Lithuania, this doesn't imply that the entire country is always cheerful.
Regarding happiness, Kairys emphasized the importance of controlling what you can and managing what is more challenging to control. For instance, while you can't change your personality traits, such as being more prone to stress than others, you can practice meditation and mindfulness to reduce stress. "There are factors you cannot change, and there are some factors you can change with some effort or a lot of work," he explained.
Additionally, Kairys highlighted the importance of sleep, a nutritious diet, and exercise, along with social connections, as crucial elements for happiness.
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