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Living Lagom: A Swedish Guide to a Balanced Life
We all want to feel healthier, happier and richer not only on the outside but also on the inside. The Swedish concept of lagom can help us to live a happier, more harmonious and balanced life. Lagom is used to describe the perfect state when something is neither too much, nor too little. It is just enough to make you satisfied. It can be used when talking about anything from the weather to how much milk you pour in your coffee. If the question starts with "How much?" the typical answer in Sweden is "lagom."
The Swedish apply lagom to most aspects of their life without thinking about it. This book will show you how lagom can be incorporated into your personal life, family, relationships, work, home, health, and wellbeing. Living lagom is to live a moderate life where balance is the key to success in all areas.
To encourage you to create a healthier lifestyle the lagom way, this book includes some easy Swedish recipes. Why not surround yourself with family and friends and cook together? This is a good activity to enjoy together instead of eating out.
To conclude the book, there’s a 21-day challenge with ideas to help you live a more legion lifestyle. You can try everything from self-care to new activities, and get useful tips on how to clean up your home and your life once and for all.
The Swedish apply lagom to most aspects of their life without thinking about it. This book will show you how lagom can be incorporated into your personal life, family, relationships, work, home, health, and wellbeing. Living lagom is to live a moderate life where balance is the key to success in all areas.
To encourage you to create a healthier lifestyle the lagom way, this book includes some easy Swedish recipes. Why not surround yourself with family and friends and cook together? This is a good activity to enjoy together instead of eating out.
To conclude the book, there’s a 21-day challenge with ideas to help you live a more legion lifestyle. You can try everything from self-care to new activities, and get useful tips on how to clean up your home and your life once and for all.
- GenresNonfiction
55 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2018
61 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Maya Thoresen
8 books8 followersMaya Thoresen is a Scandinavian lifestyle coach. She immigrated to the United States when she was twenty and was stunned by the hectic way of life that many Americans practiced, as well as the high rates of suicide, depression, heart disease, and other stress-related illnesses. She now works as a writer and mentor, helping people make their lives both simpler and richer at the same time. She has written books on Hygge and Lagom to reach people who are caught up in the hustle of commercialized life and who have forgotten to enjoy the simpler moments.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 28, 2018
Book Reviewed by Julie on www.whisperingstories.com
‘Living Lagom – A Swedish Guide to a Balanced Life’ is the latest release from USA-based Scandinavian lifestyle coach, Maya Thoresen. She takes the concept of lagom and suggests ways of applying it to every aspect of our lives.
The cheerful cover is eye-catching and clearly represents the contents of the book. The reader has an idea of what to expect before they turn the page.
The first few chapters are taken up with trying to define ‘lagom’ from its origins in etymology to current usage. It basically appears to mean not too much or too little but just the right amount. This will be different for each individual so it is a subjective, slightly abstract hypothesis and open to interpretation but the idea is to live a balanced, contented life in equilibrium and harmony with our surroundings and others. The author then sets about helping us to look at ways of achieving this.
This was an easy book to read and I was delighted to find that without realising it, I am already living lagom in most areas of my life. I love a list, recycle regularly, have never had a problem decluttering my house or pruning my wardrobe, buy local produce and eat leftovers for lunch. I did like the suggestion regarding impulse buying and will definitely be putting that into practice from now on.
When I looked for this book via an internet search, I found several on a similar theme by a variety of authors, so there is clearly a lot of competition in this area. It is quite short at 55 pages and there are some nice touches, including Swedish recipes and a 21-Day challenge at the end. It is always interesting to gain insight into the way of life in different countries.
Conversely, I am left wondering slightly if this really breaks any new ground or if it is just another de-stressing, life-coaching book? It will be for other readers to decide if they think I am being cynical.
If you like motivational self-help books, there is no reason why you would not enjoy this; it is well written and would make a nice stocking-filler at Christmas. I award ‘Living Lagom’ a very competent three-and-a-half stars.
‘Living Lagom – A Swedish Guide to a Balanced Life’ is the latest release from USA-based Scandinavian lifestyle coach, Maya Thoresen. She takes the concept of lagom and suggests ways of applying it to every aspect of our lives.
The cheerful cover is eye-catching and clearly represents the contents of the book. The reader has an idea of what to expect before they turn the page.
The first few chapters are taken up with trying to define ‘lagom’ from its origins in etymology to current usage. It basically appears to mean not too much or too little but just the right amount. This will be different for each individual so it is a subjective, slightly abstract hypothesis and open to interpretation but the idea is to live a balanced, contented life in equilibrium and harmony with our surroundings and others. The author then sets about helping us to look at ways of achieving this.
This was an easy book to read and I was delighted to find that without realising it, I am already living lagom in most areas of my life. I love a list, recycle regularly, have never had a problem decluttering my house or pruning my wardrobe, buy local produce and eat leftovers for lunch. I did like the suggestion regarding impulse buying and will definitely be putting that into practice from now on.
When I looked for this book via an internet search, I found several on a similar theme by a variety of authors, so there is clearly a lot of competition in this area. It is quite short at 55 pages and there are some nice touches, including Swedish recipes and a 21-Day challenge at the end. It is always interesting to gain insight into the way of life in different countries.
Conversely, I am left wondering slightly if this really breaks any new ground or if it is just another de-stressing, life-coaching book? It will be for other readers to decide if they think I am being cynical.
If you like motivational self-help books, there is no reason why you would not enjoy this; it is well written and would make a nice stocking-filler at Christmas. I award ‘Living Lagom’ a very competent three-and-a-half stars.
June 19, 2019
What is lagom? Not too much and not too little. It’s just enough. That’s also what this audiobook is. It’s the perfect introduction to the concept of living lagom. It covers many aspects of life and what the Swedes do to make these things lagom for themselves and how you can to. There are comparisons to other cultural theories of living such as hygge and Zen Buddhism. It’s interesting and helpful to learn the similarities and differences between them. When the book gets into food and cooking there are several lagom recipes listed to get you in the spirit of things. Many sound quite good so I might give them a try. Essentially lagom promotes simple living without excess. Sounds pretty good to me.
I did find it a bit funny that organizing and cleaning the lagom way is basically the Kondo way. You pick up an item and see if it sparks joy. If not you toss it. If it does you keep it. It was the exact same song and dance. I’m sure the lagom way is very similar to Kondoism but I think it could have been described differently for the ingenuity of the book. Because of it being described so similarly I felt it took away from the lagom feel of that part of the book and instead seemed like a regurgitation of the Magic Art of Tidying Up. It took me a bit off course. I’m sure the description just came out that way because the two theories are so similar and perhaps that was the easiest way for this subject to be better understood in the short part of the book it was allotted. I would have just preferred a different approach.
The narrator did a good job. She spoke clearly and was easy to understand. She narrated the audiobook with enthusiasm as though she truly enjoyed the subject she was talking about.
This audiobook was short but informative. I felt like it was a thorough introductory course to lagom living encompassing several aspects of life. It is good for anyone interested in the subject looking to get a little taste. There are recipes included and suggestions for what you can do to make your life more lagom. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I did find it a bit funny that organizing and cleaning the lagom way is basically the Kondo way. You pick up an item and see if it sparks joy. If not you toss it. If it does you keep it. It was the exact same song and dance. I’m sure the lagom way is very similar to Kondoism but I think it could have been described differently for the ingenuity of the book. Because of it being described so similarly I felt it took away from the lagom feel of that part of the book and instead seemed like a regurgitation of the Magic Art of Tidying Up. It took me a bit off course. I’m sure the description just came out that way because the two theories are so similar and perhaps that was the easiest way for this subject to be better understood in the short part of the book it was allotted. I would have just preferred a different approach.
The narrator did a good job. She spoke clearly and was easy to understand. She narrated the audiobook with enthusiasm as though she truly enjoyed the subject she was talking about.
This audiobook was short but informative. I felt like it was a thorough introductory course to lagom living encompassing several aspects of life. It is good for anyone interested in the subject looking to get a little taste. There are recipes included and suggestions for what you can do to make your life more lagom. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
January 10, 2019
Want to see more of my reviews? Check out my blog! Pulled from the original post on this page Hygge and Lagom DIY Bundle: Scandinavian living tips with Danish Hygge and Swedish Lagom for my Goodreads Challenge.
Reading the two concepts back-to-back establish the similarities between the two lifestyles and the crossover appeal in both. Admittedly I don’t normally pick these types of books up, I’m usually scared away by these, especially in the ones that take on a superior or accusatory tone- this one does neither. It goes through each chapter explaining and then reiterating certain points of the Hygge or Lagom lifestyle, as well as giving many different examples of how you could follow suit if you wanted to get in on the lifestyle- even giving some fun Swedish or Danish recipes near the end of each part.
I found myself engaged in the ideas almost right away, and inadvertently comparing my own lifestyle to the points described. A lot of the points I agree with, especially with the idea of appreciating the little things or going out and enjoying nature, enjoying time with family and taking time to do things that make you happy. All of those are important, and while I don’t think I’d go out and shuck my lifestyle in favor of starting anew I think a lot of these points can easily be incorporated into the day by day. I’d take comfort over style any day, I see the healthy foods movement abounding in America which in turn helps the small farming businesses, plus it’s just all around better for one’s health. Or making sure you enjoy your job, but take time off to enjoy your life too. I strongly agree with that, and I enjoy seeing those points emphasized in an encouraging way.
The emphasis on the minimalist lifestyle and family are wonderful too and I think would be a challenge for Americans to really get behind, but also something that needs to be thought about. Lagom focuses on many of the same things as Hygge, just in a slightly different approach with slightly different emphasis on different points. Yet both concern themselves with decluttering, finding fulfilment within one’s means, and does so in an encouraging voice.
The author’s style does a good job in being encouraging while also being informative as well as explaining everything out to those of us who have no idea what these concepts are- like me. I really appreciated that about the way the book is set up, as it allows for someone who has never really heard of the idea to poke around and see what it’s all about, while not being overly pressured into committing to something or made to feel bad for not committing to it. Everything is approached in an entirely manageable and realistic way. If you want to try some aspect of the lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to make some simple changes to get closer to the results explained in the chapters. It’s as simple as taking time out of the day for yourself, spending time with friends or family, do a hobby, spend time with your pet, go for a walk outside, garden- or whatever hobby translates to you as something you fully enjoy and can easily step out of your life for a bit to do, while also embracing yourself and what you enjoy and then surrounding yourself in whatever that is. By the end of the book I found myself going ‘hey, I do that already,’ or ‘hey I could do that if I really wanted to, maybe I should do that more, or make more time to spend reading a book, or watching a movie.’ It’s extremely easy to place yourself into the concept or to see if it’s something you’d want to do.
This is a great self-help guide that gives a lot of ways for you to get involved and to find something that works best for you, if you want to do that. With a new year started, this would also be great for if you want to try to pick new resolutions for yourself. There’s no pressure to commit wholeheartedly, and if anything you learn a few nice reminders or a few new things out of a couple of extremely interesting lifestyle movements. This is a great self-help book and pleasant to read!
Reading the two concepts back-to-back establish the similarities between the two lifestyles and the crossover appeal in both. Admittedly I don’t normally pick these types of books up, I’m usually scared away by these, especially in the ones that take on a superior or accusatory tone- this one does neither. It goes through each chapter explaining and then reiterating certain points of the Hygge or Lagom lifestyle, as well as giving many different examples of how you could follow suit if you wanted to get in on the lifestyle- even giving some fun Swedish or Danish recipes near the end of each part.
I found myself engaged in the ideas almost right away, and inadvertently comparing my own lifestyle to the points described. A lot of the points I agree with, especially with the idea of appreciating the little things or going out and enjoying nature, enjoying time with family and taking time to do things that make you happy. All of those are important, and while I don’t think I’d go out and shuck my lifestyle in favor of starting anew I think a lot of these points can easily be incorporated into the day by day. I’d take comfort over style any day, I see the healthy foods movement abounding in America which in turn helps the small farming businesses, plus it’s just all around better for one’s health. Or making sure you enjoy your job, but take time off to enjoy your life too. I strongly agree with that, and I enjoy seeing those points emphasized in an encouraging way.
The emphasis on the minimalist lifestyle and family are wonderful too and I think would be a challenge for Americans to really get behind, but also something that needs to be thought about. Lagom focuses on many of the same things as Hygge, just in a slightly different approach with slightly different emphasis on different points. Yet both concern themselves with decluttering, finding fulfilment within one’s means, and does so in an encouraging voice.
The author’s style does a good job in being encouraging while also being informative as well as explaining everything out to those of us who have no idea what these concepts are- like me. I really appreciated that about the way the book is set up, as it allows for someone who has never really heard of the idea to poke around and see what it’s all about, while not being overly pressured into committing to something or made to feel bad for not committing to it. Everything is approached in an entirely manageable and realistic way. If you want to try some aspect of the lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to make some simple changes to get closer to the results explained in the chapters. It’s as simple as taking time out of the day for yourself, spending time with friends or family, do a hobby, spend time with your pet, go for a walk outside, garden- or whatever hobby translates to you as something you fully enjoy and can easily step out of your life for a bit to do, while also embracing yourself and what you enjoy and then surrounding yourself in whatever that is. By the end of the book I found myself going ‘hey, I do that already,’ or ‘hey I could do that if I really wanted to, maybe I should do that more, or make more time to spend reading a book, or watching a movie.’ It’s extremely easy to place yourself into the concept or to see if it’s something you’d want to do.
This is a great self-help guide that gives a lot of ways for you to get involved and to find something that works best for you, if you want to do that. With a new year started, this would also be great for if you want to try to pick new resolutions for yourself. There’s no pressure to commit wholeheartedly, and if anything you learn a few nice reminders or a few new things out of a couple of extremely interesting lifestyle movements. This is a great self-help book and pleasant to read!
February 5, 2019
Duration: 1 hr 27 mins
Living Lagom is a comprehensive introductory guide to the Swedish principle of Lagom - the notion of having "just enough" to achieve a balanced, peaceful, fulfilling life.
I enjoyed learning about the idea of 'Living Lagom' as it was a philosophy with which I was previously unfamiliar. It was interesting to hear how it relates to - and differs from - other practices such as Zen and the currently-popular Danish pursuit of Hygge. "Hygge is an activity or state of being, and Lagom is a view on life and a way of living." Both derive from a desire for balance, moderation, and satisfaction.
I found this audiobook to be a well-rounded approach to imbuing one's life with a greater sense of balance. As well as an introduction to the history, etymology, and cultural implementation of Lagom, the book also covers Zen principles, decluttering, mindfulness, yoga, the benefits of being in nature, the importance of alone-time, gardening, and diet as ways to improve health and find contentment and peace of mind.
The audiobook also contains several healthy, filling, recipes for things such as granola, oatmeal porridge, pasta carbonara, and lots of ideas for healthy snacks. The purpose of tgese being to help the listener understand that Lagom is a perspective that can be carried into every area of one's life, as that sense of balance and satisfaction is as important in our physical health as it is in our mental wellbeing or our home environment.
Unfortunately this book suffers from quite a few linguistic problems. The worst of these being that it confuses 'content' with "contempt" which is awkward when the theme of the book is satisfaction/contentment and we are instead told that the Swedish are very contemptuous! I'm surprised that the narrator didn't raise this issue with the author so that it could be corrected in the audiobook recording, as she trips over the word each time and it is quite a significant error given how antithetical contempt is to contentment.
The English is generally a little awkward at times, with lots of tense changes and clumsy phrases and I think this contributes to the narrator's occasional hesitancy. The narrator, Sarah DaMetz, has a pleasant voice but a stilted delivery and can often be heard taking a deep breath when reading, which is more commonly found in narrators with far fewer recordings to their name. I have listened to an audiobook DaMetz narrated before and do not recall the issues being quite as pronounced.
I love the cover art for this audiobook, and how nicely it ties in to other books in the series.
I think this is a useful audiobook for anyone who is looking for an introduction to the principle of Lagom, with practical tips on how to incorporate the perspective into their own lives. The 21 challenges at the end of the book are a particularly helpful guide for those who want to make their lives more Lagom.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
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Living Lagom is a comprehensive introductory guide to the Swedish principle of Lagom - the notion of having "just enough" to achieve a balanced, peaceful, fulfilling life.
I enjoyed learning about the idea of 'Living Lagom' as it was a philosophy with which I was previously unfamiliar. It was interesting to hear how it relates to - and differs from - other practices such as Zen and the currently-popular Danish pursuit of Hygge. "Hygge is an activity or state of being, and Lagom is a view on life and a way of living." Both derive from a desire for balance, moderation, and satisfaction.
I found this audiobook to be a well-rounded approach to imbuing one's life with a greater sense of balance. As well as an introduction to the history, etymology, and cultural implementation of Lagom, the book also covers Zen principles, decluttering, mindfulness, yoga, the benefits of being in nature, the importance of alone-time, gardening, and diet as ways to improve health and find contentment and peace of mind.
The audiobook also contains several healthy, filling, recipes for things such as granola, oatmeal porridge, pasta carbonara, and lots of ideas for healthy snacks. The purpose of tgese being to help the listener understand that Lagom is a perspective that can be carried into every area of one's life, as that sense of balance and satisfaction is as important in our physical health as it is in our mental wellbeing or our home environment.
Unfortunately this book suffers from quite a few linguistic problems. The worst of these being that it confuses 'content' with "contempt" which is awkward when the theme of the book is satisfaction/contentment and we are instead told that the Swedish are very contemptuous! I'm surprised that the narrator didn't raise this issue with the author so that it could be corrected in the audiobook recording, as she trips over the word each time and it is quite a significant error given how antithetical contempt is to contentment.
The English is generally a little awkward at times, with lots of tense changes and clumsy phrases and I think this contributes to the narrator's occasional hesitancy. The narrator, Sarah DaMetz, has a pleasant voice but a stilted delivery and can often be heard taking a deep breath when reading, which is more commonly found in narrators with far fewer recordings to their name. I have listened to an audiobook DaMetz narrated before and do not recall the issues being quite as pronounced.
I love the cover art for this audiobook, and how nicely it ties in to other books in the series.
I think this is a useful audiobook for anyone who is looking for an introduction to the principle of Lagom, with practical tips on how to incorporate the perspective into their own lives. The 21 challenges at the end of the book are a particularly helpful guide for those who want to make their lives more Lagom.
*I received this audiobook free of charge in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
If you liked this review then please join me for more!
| Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram |
January 22, 2025
Stuck between 1 and 2 stars, but I'm thinking 1 wins out.
Overall, cool concept, but the entire time I was reading, I kept thinking to myself, "...this would have made a great video essay."
I'm assuming it's self-published, because as other reviewers mentioned, it was difficult to follow at times, grammatically speaking. For example, the author mixes up "content" and "contempt," which is kinda funny considering the fact that they're opposites.
As for the content of the book itself, nothing is unique. There's a lot of claims made with no citations, and the author isn't even Swedish, so at times it felt like a bizarre anthropological study with how she talks about "the Swedish," as if they're some niche tribal people whose behaviors need be documented for science.
As a rule I like to stay away from pop linguistics books (I get angry way too quickly), but I did not expect there to be this wonderful chunk of silliness:
So... Etymologists say [claim] but now etymologists say [claim is a myth]. Got it. False/folk etymology is a real aspect of historical linguistics, but it is frustrating to see it watered down and explained so messily, and again, with absolutely no sources. Plus, while we're talking about linguistics, a teeny tiny little irk: on page 1, Thoresen uses the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) to explain the pronunciation of lagom, which I loved, but then on page 9 she uses...sounding it out, I guess, to explain the pronunciation of the Danish hygge, which was just distracting and inconsistent. Jarring. Okay.
Also, she snags a Marie Kondo quip (sparking joy when decluttering) but doesn't cite her? Overall just kind of a bizarre reading experience overall. For a book in 14 pt font size and in the realm of self-help, I should not have taken more than an hour to read this, much less four days.
On the bright side, I did learn a new vocabulary word: interstitial, meaning living in the spaces between grains of sand... So, there's that.
Overall, I just think there are far better books out there for communicating the information that this book's attempting to convey. There's really nothing new or groundbreaking.
Overall, cool concept, but the entire time I was reading, I kept thinking to myself, "...this would have made a great video essay."
I'm assuming it's self-published, because as other reviewers mentioned, it was difficult to follow at times, grammatically speaking. For example, the author mixes up "content" and "contempt," which is kinda funny considering the fact that they're opposites.
As for the content of the book itself, nothing is unique. There's a lot of claims made with no citations, and the author isn't even Swedish, so at times it felt like a bizarre anthropological study with how she talks about "the Swedish," as if they're some niche tribal people whose behaviors need be documented for science.
As a rule I like to stay away from pop linguistics books (I get angry way too quickly), but I did not expect there to be this wonderful chunk of silliness:
"Etymologists say lagom is a composition of the two words 'lag' and 'om.' Centuries ago, when there was a lack of food, there was only one plate containing food and had to be enough to go around the table. No one at the table could take much food. In Swedish 'lag' means 'team' or in this case 'table' and 'om' means 'around.' Lagom is, therefore, said to imply a meaning of around the table. This explanation makes sense, although, nowadays, historians and etymologists say this is a myth and perhaps have been constructed later on to explain why the Swedish used the word lagom to begin with."
So... Etymologists say [claim] but now etymologists say [claim is a myth]. Got it. False/folk etymology is a real aspect of historical linguistics, but it is frustrating to see it watered down and explained so messily, and again, with absolutely no sources. Plus, while we're talking about linguistics, a teeny tiny little irk: on page 1, Thoresen uses the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) to explain the pronunciation of lagom, which I loved, but then on page 9 she uses...sounding it out, I guess, to explain the pronunciation of the Danish hygge, which was just distracting and inconsistent. Jarring. Okay.
Also, she snags a Marie Kondo quip (sparking joy when decluttering) but doesn't cite her? Overall just kind of a bizarre reading experience overall. For a book in 14 pt font size and in the realm of self-help, I should not have taken more than an hour to read this, much less four days.
On the bright side, I did learn a new vocabulary word: interstitial, meaning living in the spaces between grains of sand... So, there's that.
Overall, I just think there are far better books out there for communicating the information that this book's attempting to convey. There's really nothing new or groundbreaking.
June 14, 2018
Find The True Balance Of Life The Lagom Way!!
“It is a subtle and calm feeling of happiness. A happiness that does not yell at you or is overwhelming but happiness that is rising from a place of satisfaction.”
Face it, we all want balance in our lives. We all want peace, calmness – serenity. But face it, without change, it can’t be accomplished, but where do we begin? Maya teaches us how the Swedish lifestyle is “lagom” or achieving balance in one’s own life.
What an amazing book! I’ve tried the Zen books; I’ve tried the yoga books, all the other “life balance” books nevertheless none have inspired me as much as this one. Maya has a simple, easy writing style that creates peace in just slowing down and reading her book. She covers different areas of life from eating (check out the amazing recipes!), how to declutter our homes, balance in downtown, family and work to even becoming a better shopper and living a more healthy, environmental lifestyle. As an introvert, I found this was the first book that didn’t tell me I had to be more social to gain balance, so yes excellent for introverts and extroverts. The Swedish seem to have the answers and Maya is exceptional in teaching us how to achieve balance the lagom way. I highly recommend this manual for anyone desiring the true balance of peace in his or her life.
“It is a subtle and calm feeling of happiness. A happiness that does not yell at you or is overwhelming but happiness that is rising from a place of satisfaction.”
Face it, we all want balance in our lives. We all want peace, calmness – serenity. But face it, without change, it can’t be accomplished, but where do we begin? Maya teaches us how the Swedish lifestyle is “lagom” or achieving balance in one’s own life.
What an amazing book! I’ve tried the Zen books; I’ve tried the yoga books, all the other “life balance” books nevertheless none have inspired me as much as this one. Maya has a simple, easy writing style that creates peace in just slowing down and reading her book. She covers different areas of life from eating (check out the amazing recipes!), how to declutter our homes, balance in downtown, family and work to even becoming a better shopper and living a more healthy, environmental lifestyle. As an introvert, I found this was the first book that didn’t tell me I had to be more social to gain balance, so yes excellent for introverts and extroverts. The Swedish seem to have the answers and Maya is exceptional in teaching us how to achieve balance the lagom way. I highly recommend this manual for anyone desiring the true balance of peace in his or her life.
May 2, 2021
[Leído como material para la DocuSerie de Felicidad, prestado de Ivanna]
Un sencillo libre que introduce el concepto sueco de lagom.
Al final del libro hay un reto de vivir una vida lagom por 21 días de lo cual me llevo:
"7. Settle for good enough
If you are a perfectionist, this will be hard. Sometime today, when you are performing a task, challenge yourself to leave your task once it is done. If you have done it properly, consider it done if it is good enough even if you don't find it perfect. Try it and see what happens."
Otras frases:
“... to how much milk to pour in your coffee. If the question starts with “how much?” the typical answer in Sweden is “lagom.” (pg. 5)
[happiness] “Instead it is a subtle and calm feeling of happiness. A happiness that does not yell at you or is overwhelming but happiness that is rising from a place of satisfaction.”
“Hygge is an activity, or state of being, as lagom is a view on life and a way of living. However different, there is a connection between hygge and lagom. They are both derived from a longing of slowing down and keeping things simple.” (p.13)
“[if you] prefer spending time alone, lagom might mean that you should put yourself out there more.”
Un sencillo libre que introduce el concepto sueco de lagom.
Al final del libro hay un reto de vivir una vida lagom por 21 días de lo cual me llevo:
"7. Settle for good enough
If you are a perfectionist, this will be hard. Sometime today, when you are performing a task, challenge yourself to leave your task once it is done. If you have done it properly, consider it done if it is good enough even if you don't find it perfect. Try it and see what happens."
Otras frases:
“... to how much milk to pour in your coffee. If the question starts with “how much?” the typical answer in Sweden is “lagom.” (pg. 5)
[happiness] “Instead it is a subtle and calm feeling of happiness. A happiness that does not yell at you or is overwhelming but happiness that is rising from a place of satisfaction.”
“Hygge is an activity, or state of being, as lagom is a view on life and a way of living. However different, there is a connection between hygge and lagom. They are both derived from a longing of slowing down and keeping things simple.” (p.13)
“[if you] prefer spending time alone, lagom might mean that you should put yourself out there more.”
December 10, 2018
Interesting But a must read!
Sometimes we run ourselves to the point of exhaustion but we never take the time to examine our lifestyle to prevent this. The Swedish concept of Lagom is a great way to start. It is all about creating balance and joy.
Being very introverted, I was ecstatic when reading about how to apply lagom to my social life. Maya wasn’t telling me to go network and get out, but rather to have a healthy balance of doing what makes you truly happy and being social.
There is a section for applying lagom to each area of your life including work, your social life, home, and health. It reads at an easy pace with practical tips and advice. It is refreshing and has left a lasting impression on me.
Overall, this is a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who ever finds themselves overwhelmed, stressed, or just run down. As a bonus there’s even a 21 day challenge to help you apply lagom to your life!
Sometimes we run ourselves to the point of exhaustion but we never take the time to examine our lifestyle to prevent this. The Swedish concept of Lagom is a great way to start. It is all about creating balance and joy.
Being very introverted, I was ecstatic when reading about how to apply lagom to my social life. Maya wasn’t telling me to go network and get out, but rather to have a healthy balance of doing what makes you truly happy and being social.
There is a section for applying lagom to each area of your life including work, your social life, home, and health. It reads at an easy pace with practical tips and advice. It is refreshing and has left a lasting impression on me.
Overall, this is a great book and I would recommend it to anyone who ever finds themselves overwhelmed, stressed, or just run down. As a bonus there’s even a 21 day challenge to help you apply lagom to your life!
January 9, 2019
I enjoyed reading Living Lagom: A Swedish Guide to a Balanced Life. It's a very simple self -help book that starts out with a detailed explanation of what "lagom" can mean for an individual. I read this at my leisure over the course of 5 days which I feel is great. It wasn't overwhelming and left a lot of room for you to explore the idea of lagom on your own. I would read a couple pages and reflect on what I can do to achieve balance for myself. It offers suggestions on how to improve your every day life both mentally and physically. It even touches on using eco-friendly materials (clothes, furniture, food) which is great for yourself and the earth. Overall, it was a good read.
The only downside for me is that it is a very short book. I would've loved to read more on what others considered to be lagom for themselves, like individual interpretations of lagom. It would've be really helpful if I can use some of other people's ideas for myself.
The only downside for me is that it is a very short book. I would've loved to read more on what others considered to be lagom for themselves, like individual interpretations of lagom. It would've be really helpful if I can use some of other people's ideas for myself.
October 8, 2018
Definitely a good book to add to your collection
I read this book with the intent of figuring out what Lagom is and learned so much more. Not only is the book informative about the history of the term and how people of Swedish culture use it, but also about balancing daily life in ways that are manageable. Busy individuals and individuals with all the time in the world can find something similar and specific to them in this read. I'm definitely going to use the recipes and activities and try to integrate them little by little into my day and I hope everyone takes the time for themselves and with a good book like this one.
I read this book with the intent of figuring out what Lagom is and learned so much more. Not only is the book informative about the history of the term and how people of Swedish culture use it, but also about balancing daily life in ways that are manageable. Busy individuals and individuals with all the time in the world can find something similar and specific to them in this read. I'm definitely going to use the recipes and activities and try to integrate them little by little into my day and I hope everyone takes the time for themselves and with a good book like this one.
October 5, 2018
Quite the introduction
Good book, great introduction to the lagom way for the ones who didn't know about it, giving examples and similarities that are easy to understand and follow.
This book is specially done for people who are too in sync with what others do and think, so perfect for a lot of people in this day and age.
In more personal aspects, lagom could be very useful to me in my life. I particularly liked the recipe portion, and I'll surely try some od them in my own home soon.
Good book, great introduction to the lagom way for the ones who didn't know about it, giving examples and similarities that are easy to understand and follow.
This book is specially done for people who are too in sync with what others do and think, so perfect for a lot of people in this day and age.
In more personal aspects, lagom could be very useful to me in my life. I particularly liked the recipe portion, and I'll surely try some od them in my own home soon.
December 24, 2018
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I feel as though I have already adopted more of this swedish lifestyle. I agree with all of it and love it so much. It is easy to listen to and simply to learn. I will definitely be doing the 21 day challenge.
I feel as though I have already adopted more of this swedish lifestyle. I agree with all of it and love it so much. It is easy to listen to and simply to learn. I will definitely be doing the 21 day challenge.
December 20, 2023
𝟑.𝟑/𝟓 ✰
‘What’s is moderate is good for us all. When everyone is treated as an equal, society thrives, and part of lagom is taking part in communal society: you don’t take too much or too little.’
Interessante introductie van het Zweedse concept ‘lagom’. Dit boek over balans heb ik geluisterd als audioboek.
‘What’s is moderate is good for us all. When everyone is treated as an equal, society thrives, and part of lagom is taking part in communal society: you don’t take too much or too little.’
Interessante introductie van het Zweedse concept ‘lagom’. Dit boek over balans heb ik geluisterd als audioboek.
October 3, 2018
I recently reviewed this book as part of the Whispering Stories team. To read my review please follow the link below:
https://whisperingstories.com/living-...
I awarded Living Lagom 3.5 stars.
https://whisperingstories.com/living-...
I awarded Living Lagom 3.5 stars.
December 8, 2018
I like the concept of lagom, and this book was just enough to encourage me to read more on the subject. However, the language wasn't terribly fluid, so there were places I had to go back and re-read to try to get a sense of what the author was trying to say.
December 19, 2018
Great Introduction
This book is a great introduction to Lagom or as a refresher on how to live Lagom. I learned a lot about the history of Lagom and how it is incorporated into Swedish life. I've already tried the recipes and would highly recommend trying them out!
This book is a great introduction to Lagom or as a refresher on how to live Lagom. I learned a lot about the history of Lagom and how it is incorporated into Swedish life. I've already tried the recipes and would highly recommend trying them out!
March 20, 2019
Audible:Good for people who are type A's to listen to.It seems I have been Living Lagom my whole life!lol Narration by Sarah Dametz was swell. I was given this book by the narrator,author or publisher free for an honest review.
August 28, 2019
this is such a wonderful read which will help you to find balance in your very busy life. See the tricks you can use to get that balance and help you feel.more in charge of your life. a must read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 10, 2020
Read the print edition which seemed practically not edited. Whole paragraphs were repeated and there were several typos. There are better books around to refer to when you're interested in the topic. Or even blog posts. Really very disappointed.
January 20, 2021
I read this book in about an hour. While I was intrigued on the notions and principles of the philosophies set forth as guidance, I was taken back on the overall context. A little too transactional of a reading experience, and less of a personalized interaction.
July 11, 2019
Good
Decent free easy to read book - can finish book in one evening - enjoyed lagom by season (spring, summer, fall, winter)
Decent free easy to read book - can finish book in one evening - enjoyed lagom by season (spring, summer, fall, winter)
July 16, 2020
Great summary of lagom
Easy to read summary of lagom. It provides a beautiful synopsis of how you can bring lagom into all aspects of your life
Easy to read summary of lagom. It provides a beautiful synopsis of how you can bring lagom into all aspects of your life
May 16, 2021
Poorly edited
November 13, 2022
Maya Thoresen's Living Lagom is a perfect introductory text to the Swedish lifestyle of living in balance, and resulting in happiness and contentment.
January 22, 2023
Simple and straightforward tips to introduce Lagom in our lives. Definitely, I’m going to put them into practice! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
March 15, 2025
Good concept and some good information, but I found the lack of proper editing terribly distracting. I read the paperback version of this book.
October 30, 2025
A cute little read while I put away laundry! Very interesting take and it makes so much sense- I want to start living Lagom!!!
February 20, 2022
Good, quick read! It is more of a pamphlet length than a book. I got this on a kindle sale along with her Hygge book. It’s not recommended on an ereader as the format doesn’t translate.
August 24, 2024
“Living Lagom” by Maya Thoresen is a quick, easy and beautiful read. If you desire to get into a
more balanced lifestyle this book is exactly for you. The author thoroughly and beautifully
describes the steps we need to achieve a Lagom lifestyle.
I enjoyed very much learning about another culture and how the Swedes implement LAGOM and HYGGE to achieve a perfectly balanced lifestyle. I loved that the book included easy, healthy recipes that we can make at home. I LOVE cooking and it certainly was a nice surprise to see a chapter dedicated to just FOOD. It also includes a 21 day challenge that will help you achieve a more balanced life, which I think makes this book unique and so much more helpful.
I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it to all those looking for a more happy, content and balanced life.
Lagom is the way to go!
more balanced lifestyle this book is exactly for you. The author thoroughly and beautifully
describes the steps we need to achieve a Lagom lifestyle.
I enjoyed very much learning about another culture and how the Swedes implement LAGOM and HYGGE to achieve a perfectly balanced lifestyle. I loved that the book included easy, healthy recipes that we can make at home. I LOVE cooking and it certainly was a nice surprise to see a chapter dedicated to just FOOD. It also includes a 21 day challenge that will help you achieve a more balanced life, which I think makes this book unique and so much more helpful.
I really enjoyed this book and I would totally recommend it to all those looking for a more happy, content and balanced life.
Lagom is the way to go!
June 16, 2021
The Swedish philosophy of...Not to much, not to little, just right. There is virtue in moderation.
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