This is why Finland has been the happiest country in the world for nearly a decade

It may not have the scorching hot beaches that many of us dream of, but Finland has consistently been voted the happiest country in the world for nearly a decade.

The report asks people in 156 countries to value their lives on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst rating.

Also taken into consideration when ranking a country is level of corruption, social support, life expectancy and generosity.

Finnish philosopher and psychology researcher Frank Martela explained the reasons why his home country is scoring top points on the report.

First he notes, the Finnish don't compare themselves to their neighbours.

Martela writes: "I once ran into one of the wealthiest men in Finland.

"He was pushing his toddler in a stroller towards the tram station. He could have bought himself an expensive car or hire a driver, but he opted for public transportation.

"That’s what success looks like in Finland: just like everyone else."

Modest living aside, the people of Finland also take a keen interest in nature - with 87 percent of Finns ranking nature as important to them in a 2021 survey.

Martela explains: "In Finland, employees are entitled to four weeks of summer holiday.

"Many of us use that time to hit the countryside and immerse ourselves in nature. The fewer amenities, even to the point of no electricity or running water in the house, the better.

"A lot of Finnish cities are also densely built, which means that many people have access to nature at their doorsteps. I live next to Helsinki Central Park, where I go on regular walks."

In addition to this, Finland is a 'high trust' society, where people believe in the honesty of their fellow citizens.

Martela writes: "Finnish people tend to trust each other and value honesty. If you forget your laptop in a library or lost your phone on the train, you can be quite confident you’ll get it back.

"Kids also often take a public bus home from school and play outside without supervision."

Is it any wonder that 'being born in Finland is like winning the jackpot' is a saying in the Nordic country?

With low crime rates, beautiful landscapes and one of the best education systems in the world, Finland certainly has a lot to be happy about.

It doesn't hurt that their Prime Minister seems like the type of person you'd want to go for a drink with.