Alisa Atroshchenko, a multilingual life and couples coach with 7+ years of experience, specializes in guiding diverse couples towards stronger connections using empathy and practical strategies, drawing from her international background.
Happiness. That elusive glow we’re all chasing, but like the perfect pair of shoes, it looks different on everyone. Around the world, cultures have their own take on what happiness means, and spoiler alert, it’s not just about bottomless mimosas or scrolling through dreamy vacation pics. It turns out that these global happiness philosophies don’t just make life richer; they also make love and self-love irresistible.
Let’s jet-set through some of the most inspiring happiness concepts and see how they can upgrade your life and your relationships.
1. Japan: Ikigai, the sweet spot of purpose
Picture your life as a Venn diagram where passion, talent, societal need, and paychecks overlap. Welcome to Ikigai, Japan’s blueprint for a meaningful existence. It’s not about working harder; it’s about working smarter—for your soul.
Ikigai is a Japanese philosophy that helps people find their purpose in life by aligning their passions, skills, and what the world needs. The word "ikigai" is a combination of the Japanese words "iki" (life) and "gai" (value).
Relationship takeaway: When you know your purpose, your confidence radiates. Supporting your partner’s dreams while living your own makes for a relationship where both of you shine.
Self-love takeaway: Ikigai is a reminder to stop settling for “meh.” Prioritize what fuels you. Your purpose isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Do not settle for less, find right person for you.
Ask yourself: What’s one thing you could do every day that feels like pure magic?
2. Denmark: Hygge, cozy up to happiness
Think soft lighting, chunky sweaters, and warm tea on a rainy day. That’s hygge, the Danish way of wrapping yourself in life’s tiny pleasures. It’s not about extravagance; it’s about creating moments that feel like a hug.
Hygge is a Danish concept that involves creating a cozy atmosphere and enjoying life's simple pleasures with loved ones. It's often practiced at home or in a quiet location, and can include sharing a meal, drinks, or snacks.
Relationship takeaway: Transform your date nights into something more intimate. It’s not about spending big; it’s about creating spaces that feel like home.
Self-love takeaway: Treat yourself like royalty, even in the simplest ways. Light that candle, pour that tea, and savor the moment—just for you.
Pro tip: Turn off your phone for an hour and indulge in some guilt-free “me” time.
3. Costa Rica: Pura vida, pure and simple
In Costa Rica, pura vida isn’t just a saying; it’s a lifestyle. It’s about slowing down, embracing simplicity, and living in the now. It’s happiness stripped of complications and clutter.
This philosophy encourages appreciation for a lifestyle that is relaxed, carefree and optimistic. Costa Ricans, known as Ticos and Ticas, embody Pura Vida by embracing sustainability, living in harmony with their environment, and cherishing moments of happiness.
Relationship takeaway: Ditch the drama. Keep your relationship clean and uncluttered by focusing on gratitude and connection over chaos.
Self-love takeaway: Simplify your life. Cut out what doesn’t serve you and savor what does. Happiness doesn’t need a grand plan—it just needs space to breathe.
Challenge: What’s one thing you can let go of today that’s holding you back?
4. Scotland: Céilidh, dance your heart out
You can turn up to a ceilidh with a partner, on your own, or with a group of friends. In addition to the band, there is a "caller" on stage, who runs the evening and explains each dance. For each dance, the caller announces the name of the dance, and its formation.
A céilidh isn’t just a party; it’s a full-body celebration. Scots believe joy is better when shared, and nothing brings people together like music, dancing, and laughter.
Relationship takeaway: Make fun a cornerstone of your love life. Laugh, dance, and don’t take things too seriously.
Self-love takeaway: Dance alone, dance often. Joy isn’t just something you share; it’s something you create. Be your own best partner.
Tip: When was the last time you blasted your favorite song and danced like nobody was watching? Do it tonight.
5. Finland: Sisu, grit and grace
Sisu is the Finnish secret to happiness: a mix of resilience, determination, and quiet strength. It’s the “keep going” mentality that turns tough times into growth spurts.
It's “an action-oriented mindset.
Relationship takeaway: Hard times don’t break strong couples; they build them. Lean into your partner when the going gets tough.
Self-love takeaway: Channel your inner warrior. You’ve survived 100% of your bad days so far—don’t stop now. Sisu is your reminder that strength is sexy.
Question: What’s one challenge you can face head-on this week, just for you?
6. Bhutan: Gross national happiness, collective joy
Bhutan measures its success in happiness, not wealth. It’s about valuing well-being, connection, and balance over material gain.
“GNH is based on Buddhist beliefs and Bhutanese cultural values, and considers a range of factors beyond economic output. The GNH index is calculated from surveys that ask 148 questions, and is disaggregated by various groups.” (Google AI)
Relationship takeaway: Think of your love life as its own little ecosystem. Are you both investing in what truly matters?
Self-love takeaway: Stop chasing “stuff” and start prioritizing peace. You don’t need more to feel like enough.
Action: Write down three non-material things that make you ridiculously happy. Chase those instead.
8. France: Joie de vivre, savor the moment
Only the French could turn happiness into an art form. Joie de vivre is about slowing down, indulging your senses, and enjoying every moment like it’s a masterpiece.
It's the delight of being alive.
Relationship takeaway: Treat your love life like a five-course meal—savor every stage and don’t rush to the end.
Self-love takeaway: Splurge on something that feels indulgent—a bubble bath, a croissant, or just an hour to read in bed. Happiness is in the details.
Question: What’s one small luxury you can give yourself this week?
9. USA: The pursuit of happiness, dream big
In America, happiness is a hustle, a dream to be chased. It’s about ambition, reaching goals, and celebrating the wins.
Relationship takeaway: Celebrate your milestones together, big or small. The journey is just as beautiful as the destination.
Self-love takeaway: Dream bigger for yourself. Stop playing small; happiness doesn’t wait for permission. Do not settle for less.
Coaching tip: Feeling stuck chasing happiness? Sometimes a detour leads to the real prize. Let’s find your path.
Seduce your own happiness
Here’s the truth: Happiness starts with you. Fall in love with yourself. Take yourself out. Indulge in little luxuries and grand gestures—just for you. When you prioritize your happiness, you radiate confidence and draw in the kind of love that matches your energy.
Food for thought: How can you seduce yourself to lift up your quality of life and happiness today?
Your happiness toolkit
Reflect: Are you chasing the right kind of happiness for you?
Borrow from the best: Steal these global happiness hacks and make them your own.
Invest in yourself: As someone who’s lived and loved across cultures I can help you translate these lessons into a life—and relationship—you adore!
Ready to create your happiness blueprint?
Happiness isn’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Whether you’re looking to ignite your personal glow-up, deepen your relationship, or balance the chaos of cultural differences, coaching can help.
Read more from Alisa Atroshchenko
Alisa Atroshchenko, Life and Relationships Coach
Alisa Atroshchenko, a life and couples coach with over 7 years of experience, specializes in fostering stronger connections and personal growth in relationships. Fluent in four languages— English, French, Russian and Spanish—her multicultural upbringing lends a deep understanding of global perspectives. Guiding couples through self-understanding and needs assessment, she facilitates transformative journeys towards understanding and harmony. With a mission to spread happiness through building stronger relationships, she draws from her international background spanning Russia, France, Switzerland, and Mexico. Her commitment to fostering understanding knows no bounds, offering support and guidance worldwide.
