there's another nordic concept that has always resonated with me: janteloven. it's essentially a cultural code that can be distilled down to a simple sentence: don't think you're special or better than anyone else.

here are a few of the core principles:

• collective over individual - the group matters more than any single person.
• humility - you shouldn't boast about achievements, wealth, or status.
• equality as default - everyone is assumed to be roughly equal.
• skepticism toward ambition - success is fine, but talking about or displaying success is not.

that being said, i still think individuality is important. one can still be individualistic and be part of a group simultaneously.

i really love copenhagen, and scandinavia in general. it's pretty cold and rainy in the bay area right now, and it reminded me of what the danish and norwegians call hygge. to me, it stands for the warmth and comfort of home.

here are some specific aspects of hygge:

• soft, warm light
• thick blankets, plush cushions
• warm drinks
• comfort food
• oversized sweaters, thick socks, soft loungewear. comfort over style.
• small, intimate spaces – danes have the concept of 'hyggekrog', which means cozy nook

another house that i saw back in the day that i really like is the hale lana house in hawaii. i like how this home was designed to function in tandem with the surrounding nature, rather than being closed off to it. i feel like it would be an idyllic and peaceful place to get away from the hustle and bustle.