Can this Swedish tradition make you happier at work? - BBC News

Summary

In this delightful video, viewers are introduced to the Swedish tradition of 'fika', a coffee break that's more than just a pause for caffeine. It's a social ritual that includes savoring pastries like the iconic cinnamon bun and the elegant princess cake. The video offers insights into the etiquette of fika, suggesting light conversation topics for workplace newbies and the importance of this practice in fostering a relaxed, creative environment. It also touches on the evolving fika experience with modern twists on traditional treats, and the unspoken rule of enjoying pastries in a specific order, starting with the simplest and ending with the most elaborate.

Takeaways

• 🇸🇪 Swedish fika is a cultural practice that involves taking a break to enjoy coffee and pastries, often with social interaction.
• ☕️ Coffee is a central part of the fika experience, with cappuccino being a popular choice.
• 🥐 The cinnamon bun is considered the crown jewel of Swedish fika, often shared among participants.
• 🍰 Princess cake is another iconic pastry associated with fika, typically enjoyed towards the end of the break.
• 🤝 Fika at the workplace is seen as a way to relax and build camaraderie among colleagues, contributing to a positive work environment.
• 🗣️ Conversations during fika should be kept light, avoiding sensitive topics like politics and religion to maintain a comfortable atmosphere.
• ⏰ Fika breaks are typically scheduled, but outside of work, they can be more spontaneous.
• 💡 The relaxed moments of fika can lead to increased creativity and open communication among participants.
• 🍪 There is a traditional order to enjoying fika pastries, starting with the simplest and moving to the most elaborate.
• 🌱 Modern fika has evolved to include a variety of new products like roll bars, acai bowls, and fruit salads, offering more diverse options.

Q & A

What is a Swedish fika?

A Swedish fika is a traditional coffee break in Sweden, often accompanied by pastries like cinnamon buns or princess cake, and serves as a social event to relax and chat.

Why is coffee a popular choice during a fika?

Coffee is a popular choice during a fika because Swedes typically consume a lot of coffee, and it is a central part of the Swedish fika tradition.

What is the significance of sharing pastries during a fika?

Sharing pastries during a fika is significant as it promotes a sense of community and togetherness, allowing people to bond over food and conversation.

How does having a fika at the workplace contribute to the work environment?

Having a fika at the workplace allows employees to relax and chill in a different way, which is necessary for maintaining a good work environment and can enhance creativity.

What are some topics that are suggested to avoid during a fika conversation at work?

It is suggested to avoid topics like politics and religion during a fika conversation at work, as these can be contentious and it's better to keep the conversation light.

What is the typical timing for fika breaks in Sweden?

In Sweden, workplaces usually have fika breaks at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., but outside of work, there is more flexibility and one can have fika whenever they wish.

What is the proper order for eating pastries during a fika?

The proper order for eating pastries during a fika is to start with the least fancy cookie and end with the most fancy cake, typically beginning with a cinnamon bun and ending with a princess cake.

What happens if someone declines a fika invitation without a good reason?

Declining a fika invitation without a good reason is not recommended as it can be perceived negatively, as fika is an important social event in Swedish culture.

How has the variety of pastries for fika evolved over time?

The variety of pastries for fika has evolved to include more health-conscious options like roll bars, acai bowls, chia puddings, overnight oats, and fruit salads, in addition to traditional choices like cinnamon buns.

What is the Crown Jewel of Swedish fika?

The Crown Jewel of Swedish fika is the cinnamon bun, which is a traditional and beloved pastry enjoyed during the coffee break.