What’s Different About Living in Denmark?

If there’s one question I’ve been asked more than any other since moving to Denmark, (besides what I think of the current state of US politics, which I won’t go into here), it’s this: What is the biggest difference you notice between living in Denmark and living in the US?

I like this question because a) it usually means I’m talking to a curious and interesting person and b) it really makes me ponder. But it’s also hard to tease out what differences are cultural and what are simply due to the fact that my life is completely different here. After all, I did recently go from living and working full time in the San Francisco Bay Area to being a stay-at-home mom living in the countryside of Denmark. And no matter where you are in the world, going from being a working full-time mom to a stay-at-home mom is bound to shift your perspective. But either way, things are different here in Denmark. So in the spirit of simplicity, here are five differences I’ve noticed between living in Denmark and living back in my little corner of the US.

1. People appear relaxed: I can’t get enough of this one. It’s truly something I reflect on the most. Sure, I’m more relaxed too and that no doubt influences the way I experience life around me. But there is definitely a calm vibe that Denmark has going on. Is it the 37.5 hour work week? The generous welfare system that includes paid parental leave and free healthcare and education? Or perhaps the secret sauce known as “Danish Hygge“? I’m pretty sure it’s a combination of all of the above and then some. And whatever it is, I like it. 
2. Smoking habits: Smoking is more prevalent in Denmark than back home in Marin, which has some of the lowest smoking rates in the US at just under 10%. California and Marin County also enjoy some of the strongest smoke free air laws in the US, so move anywhere outside of Marin and you’re bound to notice a difference.  
   
3. Smaller food portions: The largest container of milk you can buy (at least that I’ve come across) is a litre of milk. For reference, there’s nearly four litres in a gallon. Even things like salad dressing, lettuce, peanut butter, cheese, baking soda, etc. come in much smaller portions than back in the US (and I’m definitely not including Costco in that comparison). While our family cycles through cartons of milk and peanut butter jars like nobody’s business, we seem to waste less food. But I still wonder why they don’t just sell a larger size milk…?🤔
4. Cost of cars: Denmark has a 180% tax on cars! Yes, you read that right. 180%. Plus VAT, which is 25%. Even a hooptie will cost you a small fortune. But hey, if you look at what an average American pays for health insurance each month or for the cost of higher education, expenses the Danes do not have, that 180% tax on cars may not be so bad. 
5. Danes are direct: The Danes communication style and humor is definitely more direct than what I’m used to. It can take me by surprise and feel a bit uncomfortable at times. But on the other hand, it’s refreshing to have such straightforward, cut-to-the-chase dialogue on a wide range of topics. I was curious to see what had been written about this topic and came across a post on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs “Working with Danes” homepage that highlights a few bullets in case you’re interested.  
   

I continue to be amazed at what a fascinating growing opportunity it is to reflect on our own reactions to difference. Do we get annoyed? Are we quick to compare and judge? Do we feel insecure? Superior? I don’t know about you, but I’ve answered yes to each one of those questions before. But that’s the thing…experiencing difference doesn’t happen in our comfort zones. Growth happens in those uncomfortable places. And though moving to a new country is one way to do it, it’s certainly not the only way. After all, if you’re a change junkie, staying put could be just the kind of “different” you need.

Adding a dash of bold to your life can happen right out your back door. My yoga teacher used to encourage us to put our mat in a new place each time we came to class (if you have a favorite yoga class you attend, you probably know how challenging this can be!). Amazing how such a seemingly small change can feel so awkward. And yet be such a catalyst for growth. Kinda like small milk containers.  😉

Thanks for following #ourbigfamily adventure!