Moving to Finland from Mexico was both an exciting and challenging adventure. I arrived with a mix of anticipation and fear, eager to experience the Nordic culture but unsure about the new adventure ahead. Over time, adapting to a new language, making connections, and adjusting to the cold have all been challenges I faced, each with unique learning experiences. Here’s a bit about that journey and what I’ve learned along the way. 

The Language Barrier, Beyond Just English 

Finland is renowned for its high English proficiency, so I was relieved to find I could communicate without needing to learn Finnish immediately. However, I quickly realized that not speaking the local language presented subtle but significant barriers. Most social settings, from friendly conversations to group activities, tend to gravitate towards Finnish, and understandably so. While most Finns switch to English effortlessly, joining in fully still felt like a struggle when I couldn’t follow the language’s nuances. 

The Finnish language has been a real challenge. It isn’t easy, but I’m beginning to catch phrases and understand conversations more every day. Every word learned is a great achievement, it means that one is closer to blending into Finnish society. Also, I decided to learn Swedish first, which luckily for me it happens to be an official language in Finland and I find it way easier. Although, I haven’t give up with the Finnish.

Making Friends as an Introvert 

Finnish culture is famously reserved, which can be difficult for those of us who aren’t naturally outgoing. Finnish tend to have long-standing friendships, and making new friends can take time. As an introvert, this was daunting. Social gatherings aren’t as spontaneous or informal as back home, where it’s common to strike up conversations with strangers at any place. 

However here, friendships are highly valued, when a Finn includes you in plans or activities, you’re already in. I’ve learned to be patient and respect this cultural norm, understanding that relationships here might take longer to form, but they’re strong and faithful. Finding common interests and being willing to try new activities, like hiking or swimming, helped me meet people who now feel like family. 

Navigating the Job Market 

Adapting to Finland’s professional landscape was another struggle. Job hunting as a newcomer was challenging, especially without a network. Finnish companies tend to prioritize candidates with local connections and familiarity with the culture. The search took time, patience, and plenty of applications, but it also taught me the importance of persistence and adaptability. 

Networking was key. As I attended events and met people, my connections grew, making the job search a little easier. It’s reassuring to know that while Finland’s job market can be competitive, it also values dedication and expertise. Now, I’m building a rewarding career, and every step feels like a small victory in my journey of adaptation. 

Adjusting to the Nordic Weather 

The climate shift was one of the most intense challenges I faced. Coming from a hot climate, adjusting to Finland’s cold winters was difficult. Learning to layer clothing, investing in a good winter coat, and embracing the idea of staying indoors more were all new for me. It’s still tough sometimes, but I’ve found ways to embrace the cold, even laughing at my former self who would shiver at the slightest chill! 

The shift in daylight hours was another adjustment, with the long winter nights feeling particularly strange at first. But as the seasons changed, I discovered the coziness of winter in Finland, from warm drinks to sauna gatherings, and I’ve come to appreciate it. 

Embracing Finnish Culture 

Finland’s culture has many subtle aspects that took time to understand. For example, the concept of sauna, more than being a relaxing activity, it has a very spiritual meaning and I can dare to say that it is a bit sacred, since the Finns take the concept of going to the sauna very seriously, which represented a huge cultural shock for me since in Latin America going to the sauna naked with other people is complicated, however for the Nordic people it is something completely normal and there is nothing morbid about doing this activity, contrary to the Latin taboos here they see it as a moment where we are all equal; without clothes there are no social classes or ranks. We are all equally vulnerable, when I finally understood this concept, I fell deeply in love with what the sauna represents and although it was hard for me to get rid of the taboo, little by little I have let myself flow with the river of Finnish essence when it comes to doing the sauna. 

Finns value privacy and self-reliance, and while it’s different from the more communal culture of Latin America, it’s something I’ve learned to respect and even cherish. Slowly, I’ve integrated these aspects of Finnish culture, and it’s made me appreciate the diversity of global perspectives even more. 

Reflecting on My Journey 

Despite the challenges, I’m thrilled with how far I’ve come in my Finnish journey. I can say now that I have friends who feel like family, a developing career, and a much better understanding of the language. The cold is still a topic, but it’s manageable, and I’ve even learned to appreciate the beauty of snowy landscapes. 

Finland has become a place I can call home, and each step I make gives me a sense of belonging to this charming country. 

by Georgina Jim