Article categories: News
The happiness survey is open – Respond and make a difference
Published: 9.10.2024
The City of Vaasa conducts an annual happiness survey to measure the happiness of its residents. This year’s survey is now open, and the city hopes that as many residents as possible will take part. The survey allows residents to share their thoughts on what contributes to their happiness, which in turn serves to enhance the dialogue between residents and the city. The survey provides important information not only for further development purposes, but also for evaluating the measures already taken.
According to the UN happiness report, Finland is once again the happiest country in the world, and Vaasa is determined to be the happiest city in the happiest country in the world. Residents’ happiness is measured through an annual survey conducted in collaboration with Markku Ojanen, Professor Emeritus in psychology.
– The survey is extremely important for the city because happiness is part of our city strategy, and we are constantly taking steps to promote it. That’s why it’s so important for us to gather information on the factors affecting people’s happiness in Vaasa, says Mayor Tomas Häyry.
Promoting happiness at many levels
Previous surveys have shown that people’s experience of happiness is highly personal, influenced not only by their own actions but also by many external factors and the circumstances of the society around them. Many factors contributing to happiness are linked to relationships, access to nature, and physical activity, and particular attention has been given to promoting these in Vaasa.
– Many of the initiatives are related to the city’s core tasks, but in addition to this, our goal is to influence the happiness of the residents by highlighting important themes and factors that affect well-being. This is why we encouraged residents to perform good deeds, as research shows that doing good deeds increases happiness, says Leena Forsén, Director of Communications and Marketing.
In addition to various actions, the city aims to influence residents’ happiness by highlighting key themes and issues that impact happiness. For example, the ‘Talk to Someone New’ campaign encourages residents to engage in conversations with people they don’t know. The campaign is made visible to residents in many different ways and is driven by concerns about increasing loneliness.
– We recognise that loneliness is a challenge to happiness, and we naturally take this into consideration when developing city services. Through the campaign, we can raise awareness and understanding of the situation in Vaasa and give tips on how everyone can contribute to improving the situation, says Rebecca Åkers, Welfare Expert.
One factor confirmed by the happiness survey is the positive impact of physical activity and a diverse range of recreational opportunities on happiness.
– In the most recent happiness survey, residents reported that sports and outdoor facilities had improved. For instance, the Onkilahti Park and the various outdoor nature trails have been consistently developed over time, and it is important for us to know that residents appreciate these efforts. The survey also acts as a tool for dialogue between the city and its residents, says Mayor Häyry.
Background and information about the survey:
The survey will be carried out as an online survey open to all from 9 October to 11 November 2024, in Finnish, Swedish and English. The survey will be conducted online, meaning it will not be based on a random sample. You can also take part in the survey by filling in a paper form, which is available in libraries, Citizen Services, the Vähäkyrö House, Vuorikeskus and the Pensioners’ Activity Centre.
The responses will be analysed by Professor Emeritus Markku Ojanen, who specialises in the study of happiness.