This is the first I've ever heard of 'lagom' but what a beautiful concept! I struggle with the word "enough". It sounds restrictive, or resigned to me. But "just enough" adds an inviting layer to my mind. A relished contentment. And it's so lovely to have another culture in one's pocket to rethink the messages we're all bombarded with!
Yes, exactly - it’s not about valuing or counting the things or spaces, but about relishing what you do have and finding deep contentment with the simple things in life. That means you will feel more joy, more peace, and more generous.
I had not heard of this concept Miriam, but it basically sounds like the theme of the popular Sheryl Crow song "Soak Up the Sun" that says--"It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got."
I love this, Miriam! First of all, you have given me a name form my favorite shade of red - thank you. What a great story around that color, as well!
I had not heard of Lagom, but I do incorporate the concept of "just enough" in corporate training I deliver. Some people thrive on details and the more the better. Others, like me, grasp ideas quickly and need very few. Too many and I start to shut down. As a trainer, I need to find the sweet spot of "just enough" (and have used that term) in which detail people can get what they need and people like me don't get overwhelmed or lost in an area of "too much."
Thank you for the delightful Swedish treats today!
Hi Cathy! So glad you enjoyed this letter. That’s a great use of the idea of Lagom - it’s about balance, and the sensitivity to adjust it to your circumstances (and those around you). For Swedes - it’s just part of how we think and see the world - so it doesn’t require really any effort. Even so, I appreciate being thoughtful about it when I can, and expressing it. To keep it top of mind, and also to really feel that contentment. Thanks for sharing your experience with it!
What do you teach? Teaching is quite an art - especially in corporate environments!
Currently, I train organizations in the use of two different technology platforms. I have also delivered management, leadership, skills-based training and would love to get back to more of that.
That’s fascinating Miriam. I always wondered about the red used for so many houses in Sweden. I’ve never heard of Lagom but I’ll try to incorporate it into my life.
Hi Denise! So cool when there’s a story behind colors and cultural traditions, isn’t it? I hope you find some Lagom to celebrate in your life - those small moments of “just enough” that bring a little calm and contentment. Happy Friday!
This is the first I've ever heard of 'lagom' but what a beautiful concept! I struggle with the word "enough". It sounds restrictive, or resigned to me. But "just enough" adds an inviting layer to my mind. A relished contentment. And it's so lovely to have another culture in one's pocket to rethink the messages we're all bombarded with!
Yes, exactly - it’s not about valuing or counting the things or spaces, but about relishing what you do have and finding deep contentment with the simple things in life. That means you will feel more joy, more peace, and more generous.
I had not heard of this concept Miriam, but it basically sounds like the theme of the popular Sheryl Crow song "Soak Up the Sun" that says--"It's not having what you want, it's wanting what you've got."
Seems like a good balanced way to go.
Great analogy, Melanie! Great song - also of course the Rolling Stones song. 🎼
Thanks! Which song Miriam? Not much into the Stones.
"You can't always get what what you want.... but if you try sometimes, you'll get what you need"
Oh yes, duh. I do know that one!
Yep - I figured!
Beautiful Swedish heritage!
I love this, Miriam! First of all, you have given me a name form my favorite shade of red - thank you. What a great story around that color, as well!
I had not heard of Lagom, but I do incorporate the concept of "just enough" in corporate training I deliver. Some people thrive on details and the more the better. Others, like me, grasp ideas quickly and need very few. Too many and I start to shut down. As a trainer, I need to find the sweet spot of "just enough" (and have used that term) in which detail people can get what they need and people like me don't get overwhelmed or lost in an area of "too much."
Thank you for the delightful Swedish treats today!
Hi Cathy! So glad you enjoyed this letter. That’s a great use of the idea of Lagom - it’s about balance, and the sensitivity to adjust it to your circumstances (and those around you). For Swedes - it’s just part of how we think and see the world - so it doesn’t require really any effort. Even so, I appreciate being thoughtful about it when I can, and expressing it. To keep it top of mind, and also to really feel that contentment. Thanks for sharing your experience with it!
What do you teach? Teaching is quite an art - especially in corporate environments!
Currently, I train organizations in the use of two different technology platforms. I have also delivered management, leadership, skills-based training and would love to get back to more of that.
Love it! Combining your Iagom to my hygge will be perfect. I want to read more about it!
Hey Brenda! All these Nordic lifestyle concepts relate to each other - I write often about Hygge and how it makes life better 👉🏼https://letters.thewhiskeyporch.com/p/that-hygge-time-of-year?r=2lml1e
There’s so much more to share about Lagom but I wanted to keep this letter short … hope you enjoy exploring!
That’s fascinating Miriam. I always wondered about the red used for so many houses in Sweden. I’ve never heard of Lagom but I’ll try to incorporate it into my life.
Hi Denise! So cool when there’s a story behind colors and cultural traditions, isn’t it? I hope you find some Lagom to celebrate in your life - those small moments of “just enough” that bring a little calm and contentment. Happy Friday!