The Great Read: My Miserable Week in the ‘Happiest Country on Earth’

For eight years running, Finland has topped the World Happiness Report — but what exactly does it measure?

May 2, 2025, 2:00 p.m. Eastern time On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go. Catherine Hyland for The New York Times My Miserable Week in the 'Happiest Country on Earth' For eight years running, Finland has topped the World Happiness Report — but what exactly does it measure? Open now Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request. Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app Connect with us on: Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018