I read the rulebook

In a book written in the mid-1930s called A Fugitive Crosses His Tracks, by Aksel Sandemose, there is a list. I didn’t read this book, but happened upon his list in Helen Russell’s book The Year of Living Danishly, (on page 42). Known locally as Jante’s Law, Google translated it to read as follows:

Jante’s Law (Google):

1. You’re not to think you are anything special
2. You’re not to think you are as good as we are
3. You’re not to think you are smarter than us
4. You’re not to convince yourself that you are better than us
5. You’re not to think you know more than us
6. You’re not to think you are more important than us
7. You’re not to think you are good at anything
8. You’re not to laugh at us
9. You’re not to think anyone cares about you
10. You’re not to think you can teach us anything
11. According to Russell, there is one more unspoken rule: Don’t put up with presenteeism.

It seems these rules are to help the fugitive, or immigrant perhaps, fit in. I’ve changed the context slightly to be more inclusive, making it read like this when I see it.

Jante’s Law (Nearly Nordic):

1. You’re not to think you’re more special than anyone else
2. You’re not to think your culture is better than any other
3. You’re not to think you’re smarter than anyone else
4. You’re not to convince yourself you’re better than anyone else
5. You’re not to think you’re more intelligent than anyone else
6. You’re not to think you’re more important than anyone else
7. You’re not to think you’re the best at anything
8. You’re not to laugh at others
9. You’re not to think people care about what you are doing
10. You’re not to think you know better than others
11. You’re not to think you should do more than others

These rules read like the definition of humility. They bring to mind some very distinct Nordic social habits. It seems a good set of rules for teaching the Nordic mindset of equality to a culture full of individuals seeking to stand out.

Americans are very individualistic. They like to stand out. It is an unwritten rule that you’re supposed to distinguish yourself, stay all night, put in the hours, finish the project, and get all the glory. But at what cost? They work longer, have less balance and more stress. These habits create health issues, leading to lower quality of life in all aspects. And this competitive behavior erodes the work-life balance for others in the office. Ironically, the corporate balance sheet is also negatively impacted when employees are overworked, unhealthy and unhappy.

I appreciate these rules. Working together as a team makes us more than the sum of our parts, as the saying goes. There is synergy. Beyond that, appreciating those around us as equal contributors engenders more trust. And that can lead to greater happiness.

Nordics appreciate being equal. Everyone on the team adds his or her part; no one person is indispensable. There is balance. And they like to keep it that way. 

What did I learn from this?

Learn to blend in and be part of a team. You’ll be happier for it.