Enhancing quality of life through career fulfillment … and hygge

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This article was published 11/01/2025 (309 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Each year, the global conversation around quality of life gets a fresh boost when internet database Numbeo releases its Quality of Life Index.

For 2025, cities in the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Denmark once again dominated the rankings. These countries consistently score high due to their balance of excellent infrastructure, safety, access to health care and a culture that values well-being.

When mulling over why they are consistently well-rated, I thought of a card deck a relative brought to a family reunion over the holiday break. It was called The Hygge Game: Cozy conversation in pleasant company.

It is a box of cards bearing questions that promote calm conversations and connectedness by encouraging participants to share stories and discuss the big and small things in life.

“Hygge” is a Danish/Norwegian word that has no direct English translation, but encapsulates the art of comfort, coziness and finding joy in the simple things. While we often think about quality of life in broad societal terms, there is a personal dimension — and one of the most powerful ways to elevate it is by aligning your career with practices that reduce stress and promote fulfillment.

Here are some suggestions to use hygge as a guide to crafting a better workday:

Career, quality of life: intertwined paths

A fulfilling career can greatly enhance overall quality of life. Beyond the paycheque, work shapes identity, builds community and provides a sense of purpose. Yet, for many, the demands of the modern workplace can tip the scales toward stress, fatigue and disconnection — all of which can erode well-being.

It’s here that we can learn from cultures where hygge offers a framework to bring balance, intentionality and joy into daily life, including work.

In Denmark, hygge isn’t just a seasonal indulgence reserved for winter evenings by the fire. It’s a way of life that permeates all aspects of Danish culture, including professional environments. This emphasis on well-being doesn’t come at the expense of productivity; rather, it enhances it by fostering happier, more connected employees. Incorporating elements of hygge into your own work life doesn’t require a cultural overhaul or an elaborate setup. It starts with small, intentional choices designed to reduce stress and bring moments of joy.

What is hygge?

Hygge (pronounced “hoo-guh”) is often described as a sense of coziness and comfort, but it’s more nuanced. It’s about creating a warm atmosphere, enjoying the good things in life and prioritizing meaningful moments with others. Whether it’s sipping coffee with a friend, lighting a candle during dinner or savouring a quiet moment at the end of the day, hygge invites you to slow down and appreciate what’s in front of you.

While the concept is rooted in Danish culture, its principles are universally applicable. At its core, hygge emphasizes mindfulness, simplicity and intentionalit y— qualities that can be transformative when applied to work. After all, careers are not just about climbing ladders; they’re about crafting a life that aligns with personal values and fosters joy.

Bringing hygge to the workday

The typical workday can often feel like a race against time, punctuated by back-to-back meetings, endless notifications and looming deadlines. Infusing your professional life with hygge doesn’t mean abandoning productivity; it means redefining it to include well-being. Here are ways to embrace hygge during your workday:

1. Create comfortable workspace

Whether you work from home or in an office, your environment plays a critical role in your mood and productivity. A hygge-inspired workspace prioritizes comfort and calm. Think soft lighting, warm textures and personal touches like photos, plants and/or artwork that bring you joy. If you’re working remotely, consider investing in a cozy chair or a soft blanket to drape over your lap on cold mornings. In-office? A photo of your cherished place and a cup of your favourite tea can bring a sense of calm amidst the hustle.

2. Slow down, savour breaks

Breaks are an essential part of any workday, yet they’re often rushed or skipped altogether. In the spirit of hygge, transform your breaks into mini-retreats. Step away from your desk and truly savour your coffee or lunch. Focus on the taste, the warmth of the mug in your hands and the act of nourishing yourself. Even a five-minute mindfulness exercise or a quick walk outside can refresh your mind and reduce stress.

3. Foster genuine connections

Hygge thrives on meaningful interactions — and the workplace is no exception. Instead of rushing through conversations, take time to connect with colleagues. Start meetings with a brief check-in or take a moment to express appreciation for a teammate’s efforts. These small acts of connection build camaraderie and trust, making work a more enjoyable and collaborative experience.

4. Simplify your schedule

Overloading your calendar is the antithesis of hygge. To create a more balanced workday, prioritize what truly matters and let go of non-essential tasks. Embrace the Danish principle of arbejdsglæde (work happiness) by setting realistic goals and celebrating progress — even if it’s incremental. A clear, uncluttered schedule allows you to focus deeply on tasks and reduces the frantic pace that often leads to burnout.

5. Celebrate small wins

Part of the joy of hygge is finding happiness in the little things. Apply this mindset to your career by recognizing and celebrating small wins. Finished a challenging report? Take a moment to acknowledge your accomplishment. A meeting went particularly well? Share your enthusiasm with a co-worker. These moments of positivity add up, creating a sense of achievement and fulfillment.

6. Embrace rituals

Rituals bring structure and comfort to the day. Consider starting your mornings with a ritual that grounds you, whether it’s a few minutes of journaling, stretching or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. Similarly, end your workday with a closing ritual — perhaps tidying your workspace, reviewing what you’ve accomplished or setting intentions for tomorrow. These small acts help mark the transition between work and personal life, promoting balance and reducing stress.

Long-term benefits of hygge-inspired career

Incorporating hygge into your work life doesn’t just make the day more pleasant; it can lead to lasting improvements in well-being. By reducing stress and fostering joy, hygge helps protect against burnout, enhances focus and improves overall job satisfaction. Over time, these changes ripple outward, positively influencing your physical health, relationships and even career trajectory.

Moreover, a hygge-inspired approach aligns beautifully with the values underpinning high-ranking countries on the Quality of Life Index. Denmark’s success isn’t just about policy; it’s about a culture that prioritizes balance, connection and contentment. By adopting similar principles, individuals can create a work life that’s not only productive but also deeply fulfilling.

The Takeaway: quality of life is within reach

While external factors in society strongly affect quality of life, personal choices are equally important. A fulfilling career is about more than professional success; it’s about cultivating a life that feels meaningful and aligned with your values. Embracing hygge at work offers a pathway to achieve this balance.

So, whether you’re starting your day in a cozy home office or heading into a bustling workplace, take a cue from the Danes. Slow down. Savour the moment. Your quality of life — and career satisfaction — will thank you for it.

Tory McNally, CPHR, BSc., vice-president, HR consulting, is a human resource professional, radio personality, speaker and problem solver. She can be reached at tory@legacybowes.com