Denmark, Switzerland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Luxembourg, Austria, and New Zealand are also among the world's happiest countries. It's worth noting that most of them are high-income countries with efficient infrastructures and systems, thus offering an excellent quality of life to their populations. And yet, the global health crisis compelled virtually every country to adopt drastic measures for their survival.
To date, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in not only 2.78 million deaths out of 127 million positive cases around the world but also a series of crises. Indeed, the pandemic has affected not only populations but also economies and labour markets. In many countries, the unemployment rate keeps rising as thousands of workers lose income and purchasing power.
As countries try to reopen their borders for economic recovery, new COVID-19 surges are taking over. Today, many sectors, millions of employees and their families are struggling for survival. So what does happiness mean amid a crisis that isn't coming to an end?
Hank, an American expat in Ecuador
For Hank, an American who has lived in Ecuador for many years, there are several ways to find the right balance amid the chaos. “Get your COVID-19 vaccine; this will automatically change your perception of well-being. Meditate. There are plenty of videos and audiotapes to help you out on the internet. Also, try to keep in touch with your family and friends through social networks, email or Skype ”, he says. According to Hank, you also need to know how to turn off all your devices at bedtime, including the modem in your room. "Eat foods you enjoy, unless your doctor has ruled out something. Get outside, especially on sunny days. Swim regularly if you can, and the climate allows”. He also believes that staying away from fake news definitely contributes to happiness.
Claude, a French expat in Canada
“What makes me happy here is the climate, and in particular the gentle winds and the cosy atmosphere,” says Claude, a French expat in Canada. Nothing makes him happier than being able to sit under a tree at any time of the day to enjoy some fresh air. Despite the health crisis, Claude is getting the most of his expat life. "The way Canadians smile, their face expressions, etc., all contribute to the sweetness of life here".
Sylvie, who just returned to France from the United States
For Sylvie, returning to France is much more of a relief. “I'm really grateful for being here with my loved ones and by my mom's side. She has been ill for several months, and I couldn't have waited any longer to be here. I had a job, a home, friends, a whole life there in the US. But the past year made me think about what mattered most to me, and I think it's the best decision I have ever taken", she says. Sylvie doesn't yet know how long she will stay in France, but for the time being, her priority is to spend time with her family.
Hicham, a Moroccan who was about to relocate to Belgium
For Hicham, happiness would be to find a better job with a decent salary so that he can offer a better life to his family. "It would be to be able to offer quality education and other benefits to my children in a pleasant and healthy environment", he says. But he admits that all this looks difficult in the current context. “In the meantime, it gives us more time to prepare for upcoming challenges. It's important to strengthen our skills, whether in languages, new technologies or IT, learn and understand the values of our host country for better integration".
Aude, a French expat in Denmark
Passionate about well-being, happiness and respect, Aude believes that she has found her place in Denmark. “Among the countries where I have lived, Denmark is the most advanced on issues such as gender equality, acceptance of differences, education without violence, less corruption. People trust each other more, and certain behaviours which might seem unacceptable in some countries are quite normal here. In a way, the Danes focus on the simpler things about everyday life. Individual well-being is important for society," she says. And this balance suits her perfectly. “Since nearly two years, I can see myself ageing here”.
Valerie, a French expat in Italy
"We have been locked down once again, but I'm not complaining," she says. For Valerie, the lockdown turned out to be a blessing. “In normal times, I rarely get to spend quality time with my children. Remote work has allowed me to manage my tasks and then take care of my children and plan activities to keep them busy. I'm not saying that all this is a good thing, but I'm happy to be spending my days like this. Sometimes, I do feel overworked, but I can rely on my partner's support as he is working from home too".
