Lagom: A Swedish Guide to Balanced Living
By Kate Love
In a world that often values more over less, there's something refreshingly calming about the Swedish philosophy of lagom (pronounced law-gohm). It’s a concept that’s been passed down through generations in Sweden, and it's gaining global appeal for its simplicity and sense of balance.
But what exactly is lagom, and why is it so effective at helping us live more peacefully?
What Is Lagom?
Lagom is best described as "just the right amount" - not too much, not too little. It’s about balance and moderation in all things, from work and relationships to how you take care of yourself. It’s the sweet spot between excess and deprivation, the ability to enjoy what you need without being overwhelmed by it.
Unlike the all-or-nothing mindsets we often encounter in today’s world, lagom encourages a more sustainable approach to life. Whether it's the amount of food on your plate, the number of hours you spend working or the number of activities you take on, lagom helps you find that perfect balance, where enough is enough.
A Philosophy of Balance
The idea behind lagom is simple, but it’s not always easy to put into practice. In Sweden, it’s applied to nearly every aspect of life, whether it’s keeping your home tidy but not overcrowded, enjoying the outdoors but not over-scheduling your days or eating well without overindulging. It’s the practice of making life simpler and more intentional. The Swedish proverb, “Lagom är bäst”, literally means, “The right amount is best” but is also translated as “Enough is as good as a feast”.
In a world that often encourages more – more work, more possessions, more social commitments – lagom is a welcome reprieve. It’s a mindset that allows you to slow down, take a breath and truly appreciate the moments that matter.
How Lagom Relates to Hygge
While the Danish hygge is all about cosiness and contentment, lagom complements it with a focus on balance and moderation. Where hygge might focus on a hot chocolate by the fire, lagom invites you to enjoy that hot chocolate without overindulging in distractions or excess, like putting too many marshmellows on top. It’s about appreciating the little things and creating a life that feels comfortable and fulfilling without going overboard.
Both philosophies encourage mindfulness and an intentional way of living. Where hygge is about enjoying the present moment with loved ones, lagom ensures that you don’t overwhelm yourself with too many commitments or things. It’s about enjoying enough without stretching yourself too thin.
As life gets busier, it’s easy to forget that sometimes, less truly is more.
Embracing Lagom in Your Daily Life
So how can you bring lagom into your everyday routine? Here are a few ideas to help you live with more balance:
Simplify your home: Clear out the clutter and create a space that is calming and purposeful. Lagom encourages functionality and minimalism – focus on what you really need and enjoy.
Work-life balance: Avoid the trap of overwork. Embrace the idea that enough is enough, and know when to stop working and start enjoying life. Lagom teaches us that productivity is important, but so is rest and relaxation.
Mindful eating: With lagom, you don’t need to overindulge or deprive yourself. It’s about enjoying food that nourishes you, in the right quantities, without guilt or excess.
Create space for yourself: While social connection is important, lagom reminds us to balance social activities with time for ourselves. Don't feel pressured to be everywhere at once. Enjoy your own company as much as you enjoy time spent with others.
Appreciate the simple pleasures: Whether it’s a cup of coffee, a walk in the park or a quiet moment with a book, lagom helps you slow down and appreciate the little things in life.
Lagom’s Impact on Wellbeing
Living by the principles of lagom can reduce stress and promote a sense of wellbeing. By focusing on balance, we’re less likely to feel the pressures of modern life – whether it’s the constant hustle or the desire to keep up with societal expectations. With lagom, there’s no need to chase after more. Instead, it’s about appreciating the abundance that already exists in your life, in the right proportions.
Living with lagom means you’re constantly checking in with yourself, ensuring you’re not pushing yourself too hard in any one direction. It’s about avoiding the extremes – and instead, aiming for a sustainable pace of life where everything feels “just right”.
A Balanced Approach to Happiness
Lagom doesn’t promise an all-encompassing happiness that’s defined by what you own or how much you achieve. Instead, it gives you the space to feel content with what you have and who you are right now. It’s not about perfection, but about embracing life as it comes, finding joy in simplicity, and appreciating the present moment without being weighed down by excessive demands.
The Beauty of Moderation
As life gets busier, it’s easy to forget that sometimes, less truly is more. Lagom reminds us that we don’t need to overcomplicate things to find happiness or fulfilment. Whether it’s having just enough on your plate, spending just enough time at work or enjoying just the right amount of social connection, lagom helps you strike that perfect balance, and stop striving for more, more, more.
In a world of excess, lagom is a gentle reminder that living in moderation and simplicity can lead to a life of calm, joy, and lasting contentment.