I am so excited to share that I am writing a book. It is about a philosophy that guides the mindset of millions of people: SISU. It has shaped who I am and how I live. I wanted to explain what it is and how it can help you be a better person, too.
SISU is a Finnish concept described as a stoic determination, tenacity of purpose, grit, bravery, resilience, and hardiness. It is upheld by Finns to express their national character. Not coincidentally, Finland has been described as “the most happy country” in the world (from a 2024 survey). The term SISU is generally considered to not have a literal equivalent in English, but I want to try and explain it to you. My Iife has been defined by it and so can yours.
One of my favorite movie lines ever, is from Conan the Barbarian (the old version with Arnold Schwarzenegger, when his accent was at its thickest). After overcoming a very violent upbringing, Conan says,
“Whatever you survive, makes you stronger”
Fun Fact: this quote is actually from the German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche.
SISU has an element of this, but there is more to it than just surviving and getting stronger. It must also include the belief that you will get through it, thrive, and, perhaps, even enjoy it. SISU is what defines your attitude when you face a challenge. It is an optimism, a positive outlook, especially during the most difficult of times.
Conan the Barbarian was missing that part. There is a sense of adventure with SISU, a joy of sorts. You find it as you make the most of any experience you go through. It’s a choice. So, anyone can have SISU, because you can make the choice.
You might ask, “How? How can I ‘get’ SISU?”
Well, it starts with you wanting it. Then, it becomes more like a practice (like mindfulness and gratefulness). SISU might just bubble up within you at times, but mostly you simply acknowledge that you have it and move forward. When shit happens, and it will, you decide to live in SISU and face it with your most positive attitude. It may feel fake at first, like you are just pretending to remain optimistic. But over time, it will become more authentic as you make SISU the intrinsic motivator in your life. SISU is what will make it possible for you to be strong during adversity and smile in the midst of it — not a creepy smile, but one that reflects a genuine joy while going through (and getting through) a difficulty.
SISU is, simply, making the most of every challenge and having a good attitude while going through it. Anyone can live with that. It’s a much healthier way of getting to where you are going.
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