Swede Life: Tips for Settling in Sweden, Fika culture at work

It might be interesting to know that in Swedish, there is a term for "having coffee and a piece of pastry around 2-3 PM to talk to someone or be alone" called Fika. But Fika is more than just a coffee break; it is a moment to pause, relax, and socialize.

Fika is not limited to the workplace; it is a common practice in Swedish homes and social settings. Friends and family often gather for Fika to catch up and enjoy each other's company. People generally sit together and talk about simple topics like the weather, kids, food, or TV shows, but not politics or any sensitive topics that may lead to a conflict. Conflict is a big NO in Sweden, and everybody avoids it.

Generally, people in Sweden pay attention to their mental and physical health at work. In a company, most people start and finish around the same time and have one or two Fika breaks per day. Big Fikas with more employees together are also common once a week and are planned, for example, every Wednesday at 15:00. Fika is one of those cultural codes that is taken seriously, not only for its fun aspect but also as a way to understand the work culture in Sweden.

Fika breaks are inclusive, fostering a sense of community and equality. Employees of all levels, from entry-level staff to top executives, participate together. The first time I saw my boss sitting by my side and listening to someone's experience of giving birth was a bit weird. I thought to myself, he is a busy man with lots of meetings per day, why doesn't he take this time to just do his own things instead of listening to his employee's motherhood story? As time passed and I integrated more into Swedish culture, I realized these breaks provide an opportunity for informal communication, allowing employees to discuss both work-related and personal topics in a relaxed setting, and also offering a sneak peek for the boss to understand and be connected to his/her employees in general.

Fika is more than just a coffee break; it is a cornerstone of Swedish culture that emphasizes the importance of taking time to relax, socialize, and enjoy the moment. In the workplace, it fosters a sense of community, enhances productivity, and contributes to a positive and balanced work environment. I personally find it a bit boring to listen to certain topics, like the weather or boring TV shows. Especially if someone nags about the weather in Sweden, I immediately leave politely. During the past five years, I have learned to accept this aspect and not let the rainy or dark weather impact me.

If you are new to Sweden, go to every possible Fika with your group. Don't miss any for the first six months and try to listen more than talk. Even if you have to leave your high-focus task, no one will blame you for leaving the task, but they will probably blame you for missing the Fika. This allows you to get to know your new colleagues, understand your working environment, and see the communication style of your colleagues with each other and your boss.