Oftentimes, people say this and that about their wealth or capability to the point that it becomes annoying or meaningless. If you are tired of this nonsense, try to follow Jantelagen.
Lola A. Åkerström, the author of Lagom: The Swedish Secret of Living Well, describes Jantelagen, or the law of Jante, as a way to keep everybody equal. It is about not being too flashy and not bragging unnecessarily.
The Swedish concept is not legally written under the law, but many Swedes abide by it. Jantelagen is, arguably, what society needs today as a reminder that wealth does not instantly make you a better person. You are not better than anyone else.
Also Read: Worry Less, Salary Never Defines You
Examples of Jantelagen by Swede Figures
It is true that we cannot point out that a person abides by the law of Jante directly. However, several behaviors might suggest that the person is doing so.
One example is Ingvar Kamprad, the founder of IKEA. He was one of the richest men in the world and among successful business leaders.
Despite everything, until his death, he flew economy class, thought of his employees as ‘co-workers’ and encouraged everyone to dress informally, stayed in cheap hotels and drove an old Volvo.
Another instance is Felix Kjellberg, famous YouTube king PewDiePie. Questioned by media about his YouTube income numerous times, Felix always avoids to answer and never discloses it.
Also, when other YouTubers are bragging about money and cars they can afford, Felix shows the world about his prehistoric Nissan Micra just to make fun of ‘flexing customs.’
Controversies surrounding the Views
Despite everything, the law of Jante also receives numerous backlash, including from Swedes themselves. The reason being that Jantelagen is contradicting itself to some extent.
Nicole Falciani, a Swede blogger and Instagram influencer, hopes that it would be better if Jantelagen disappeared. In his defense, he argues that the law prevents his countrymen from being open, especially about materialistic things.
Also, what is controversial from Jantelagen is that people might brag about one thing, but they refuse to hear about another thing. For instance, in Sweden, it is normal to talk about new houses you have, but it is not you are talking about new luxurious cars.
Implementing the Values
Jantelagen is still practical and arguably fruitful for societies these days. It helps establish awareness for people to not disclose too much about what they have or earn, unless necessary.
For instance, it is not important to brag about the money you get from your work to your friends as it serves no meaningful purpose.
Besides avoiding gossips, it teaches us to tell details only if it truly is necessary. Otherwise, it will just be a waste of time and energy, not to mention potentially spreading negativity.
Indifferent to disclosing our good sides, it also applies to the limit of uncovering what bad luck we encounter. It educates us to be strong and not rely on anyone at all times we have problems. However, it does not mean that we may not talk about it. Just remember the portion. Not too much, not too little. Lagom.
Also Read: Life Lessons Taught by Trading
