I am halfway through my time in Stockholm, and there is still so much to do! Every week, it seems something new to do or visit pops up, whether through a co-worker recommendation, a bus advertisement, or even an Instagram post. One highlight was culture night, when almost every museum in the city was free from 6 pm until midnight, hosting events and allowing exploration of the city’s culture. I was able to visit the Royal Drama Theatre and the Nobel Museum, as well as some smaller ones I would not have known about otherwise. It's been a lot colder than I expected, thanks to the wind, but watching the seasons change, even if slowly, during runs and morning commutes has been a great experience. Despite the cold, the cherry blossoms in bloom stand as a testament that spring is here and the days will only get warmer.
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One thing I have noticed here is that everything seems more relaxed. Public transit is quiet, with people keeping mostly to themselves. At my office, scheduled hours are very flexible, with some of my co-workers coming in early so they can leave earlier, or heading out at lunch to take the rest of the day from home. Personal time and well-being are highly valued, which has made me reflect on work culture in America, which often expects people to sacrifice personal time and work beyond scheduled hours. I have also reflected on how fast-paced everyday life in America is, with people seemingly always having somewhere to go or be. There are more breaks here,such as fika, and a greater appreciation for the slower side of life. A common sight in Stockholm on a sunny day is a group of people sitting with their arms out, eyes closed, facing upwards towards the sun, soaking in the warmth.
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In Sweden, it is normal for everyone in the office to eat lunch together, and these breaks can last a long time, with people chatting and relaxing after lunch. At first, it felt weird to take such long lunch breaks with my co-workers. I felt guilty, as if I was wrong for talking and having a good time when I could be working. However, over time, I realized that I felt much more productive after lunch than before, and that stepping away from my desk a bit cleared my mind and energized me for the rest of the workday. As someone who gets very invested in work and can be hard on myself at times, watching this influenced my own approach to work and showed me the importance of breaks and listening to my body when it's tired. My advice to students is to embrace this communal lunch, not feel nervous about joining in with their colleagues, and embrace a more relaxed lifestyle.
Ava Georgious, Diverse Ducks Ambassador