One decision, a million questions! So, I decided to move to Sweden and I thought I had done my research. However, I was rather surprised by a number of things.
If you are planning on relocating to Sweden or just want to know more about life in this country, here are five things that I wish I had been told before I left for Sweden.
1. The Weather Isn’t Just Cold — It’s a Whole Mood
I had anticipated the cold and the snow, but I was not prepared for the lack of light. In the winter, the sun can set as early as 3 pm, and this lack of sunlight can be quite exhausting and even depressing. But the Swedes have a wonderful way of dealing with this — lots of lights, candles in all the windows, and an understanding of the concept of mys.
Tip: Get a good winter coat, some thermals, and possibly a light therapy lamp. And learn to appreciate fika, the Swedish daily coffee and cake break that can even cheer up the gloomiest of days.
2. Swedish Society Is Built on Trust, Equality and Lagom
Sweden is not only one of the most attractive countries in the world but also one of the most advanced societies in terms of social justice. The social-economic system is one of the best in the world and is based on equity, equality, and justice. Parental benefits are quite liberal. Both parents are allowed to take leave, and it is common to see men with prams in the streets during weekdays.
Education and healthcare are mostly tax-funded. The idea of lagom, or ‘just right’, pervades everything from work-life balance to social interaction. In short: life in Sweden is calm, fair, and well thought out.
3. Everyone Speaks English — But Swedish Still Matters
One of the biggest surprises? Almost everyone speaks English. From bank staff to grocery clerks, you will not have any problem with translation. Sweden is among the top countries in the world regarding the use of English.
But here is the thing: Knowing Swedish can take you further. If you want to make close local friends, understand cultural subtleties, or get career progression, then learning the language will help you in a way that English will not.
4. Swedes Are Friendly — Just Not in a Loud Way
If you are from a culture where people engage in conversations and invite each other freely, you may find Sweden a bit… silent. Swedes are not generally very talkative and people respect their personal space. It is not that they are not friendly, they are just more shy than most cultures. But once you have broken the ice, you will find real, true friends. Trust is a huge issue here, once you gain it, it stays that way.
Tip: Do not push for conversations. Be patient, find a hobby group, and let relationships build up on their own.
5. Sweden Is a Quiet Giant in the Global Digital Scene
When I thought of Sweden, I thought of IKEA, ABBA, and Ericsson. What I did not know was that Sweden is more than a technological giant.
Here are just a few global giants that call Sweden home:
- Spotify
- Volvo
- Scania
- ABB
- SAAB
- Klarna
- Skype and so many more.
The country’s digital economy is sleek, efficient and incredibly advanced. Need to sign a contract? There’s an app. Want to pay rent? Do it on your phone. Sweden’s digital infrastructure makes everyday life simple and smart.
Final Thoughts
Living in Sweden has made me appreciate silence, slow down, and have a balance. It is a country of systems, of understatement, of deep values
So, if you are planning to make the move, be ready for a different way of life – one that is quieter, fairer, and quite nice. And, of course, do not forget your umbrella and your fika habit.
