Lagom audiobook cover - The Swedish Art of Balanced Living

Lagom

The Swedish Art of Balanced Living

Linnea Dunne

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Categories:
Personal DevelopmentMindfulness & HappinessSociety & Culture

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Lagom
Core Philosophy+
Work-Life Balance+
Food & Cuisine+
Outdoor Life & Well-being+
Social Bonding+
Sustainable Living+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 8
What is the fundamental meaning of the Swedish concept of 'lagom'?
  • A. Striving for constant self-improvement and excellence
  • B. Finding balance by having not too little, not too much, but just enough
  • C. Adopting a strict minimalist lifestyle that avoids all material luxuries
  • D. Prioritizing outdoor activities and nature over modern technology
Question 2 of 8
In Swedish work culture, what is the 'förankringsprocessen'?
  • A. A mandatory daily coffee break designed to boost workplace productivity
  • B. A government policy that guarantees generous parental leave for both mothers and fathers
  • C. An inclusive decision-making process involving all employees, from executives to new hires
  • D. A flexible scheduling system that allows employees to work six-hour days
Question 3 of 8
What is the primary purpose of the Swedish tradition called 'fredagsmys'?
  • A. To balance the week's efforts with cozy, simple relaxation and quality time with loved ones
  • B. To encourage children to explore creative hobbies and skills outside of academics
  • C. To gather with neighbors and perform communal tasks like cleaning the apartment block
  • D. To forage for wild ingredients in preparation for weekend meals
Question 4 of 8
What cultural lesson does the tradition of 'Lördagsgodis' (Saturday sweets) teach Swedish children?
  • A. The importance of supporting local businesses and bakeries
  • B. Moderation and self-control
  • C. The value of sharing food with their community
  • D. How to appreciate traditional Swedish recipes
Question 5 of 8
Which of the following best describes 'Allemansrätten'?
  • A. A cultural movement emphasizing homegrown food and reducing food miles
  • B. A relaxed, non-judgmental community fitness class
  • C. The Nordic philosophy of disconnecting from screens to improve mental health
  • D. The right to access nature, allowing people to swim, cycle, and pick flowers almost anywhere
Question 6 of 8
How do Swedes typically approach communication and socializing according to the book?
  • A. They use excessive politeness to ensure no one feels offended during conversations
  • B. They value literal honesty and frankness, making direct answers and silences natural
  • C. They prefer to socialize in bustling public spaces like bars rather than at home
  • D. They avoid discussing personal matters to maintain a professional distance
Question 7 of 8
When adopting a sustainable lagom lifestyle, what does the practice of 'köpstopp' involve?
  • A. Returning glass bottles and aluminum cans to the store for a small refund
  • B. Gradually replacing all plastic items in the home with bamboo, wood, or metal
  • C. Committing to not buying anything for a set period to appreciate what you already have
  • D. Purchasing only preloved or secondhand items to reduce your carbon footprint
Question 8 of 8
What is 'plastbanta' in the context of Swedish sustainable living?
  • A. A plastic detox where you gradually replace plastic items with sustainable alternatives
  • B. A communal system for recycling household waste to keep landfill use under 1 percent
  • C. A tax imposed on single-use plastics in grocery stores
  • D. A method of upcycling old plastic containers into home garden planters

Lagom — Full Chapter Overview

Lagom Summary & Overview

Lagom (2017) introduces the Swedish attitude toward life that embodies the principle of “not too little, not too much, just enough.” It explores how this approach contributes to happiness and well-being – as evidenced by Sweden’s high ranking in the World Happiness Report – by being deeply rooted in community and responsibility. 

Who Should Listen to Lagom?

  • Busy professionals seeking balance
  • Environmentalists aiming for sustainable living practices
  • Community organizers needing to foster social bonds

About the Author: Linnea Dunne

Linnea Dunne is a writer and editor. In addition to writing Lagom and Good Mornings, her work has been featured in the Irish Times, the Guardian, and the Irish Independent. Dunne is the founder of copy agency Clearly Nordic, which helps Nordic brands communicate effectively in English​.

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