Dutch Lifestyle Habits: How the Dutch Master Balance, Happiness and Simplicity

We often look to Scandinavia for lifestyle inspiration, but tucked away in Northern Europe is a country quietly leading the way in wellbeing—yes, we’re talking about the Netherlands. From riding bikes in sideways rain to unapologetically doing “nothing,” the Dutch seem to have found a rhythm in life that many of us envy (and maybe even giggle at). But behind the stereotypes of cheese, clogs, and canals lie habits deeply rooted in balance, simplicity, and intentional living.

Whether it’s how they spend their weekends or how they handle work-life boundaries, Dutch people practise small, often quirky customs that foster peace of mind and a sense of community. This blog dives into five defining Dutch lifestyle habits—uitwaaien, niksen, acting normal, gezelligheid, and prioritising punctuality—that help explain why the Netherlands consistently ranks among the happiest countries in the world. Let’s explore what we can learn (and borrow!) from our calm, cheese-loving friends.

Key Takeaways

• Dutch lifestyle habits are rooted in simplicity, balance, and mental wellbeing.
• Uitwaaien is the Dutch ritual of walking in windy, cold weather to clear your mind.
• Niksen is the art of doing nothing—intentionally, and without guilt.
• “Act normal” reflects Dutch humility and anti-showoff culture rooted in Calvinist tradition.
• Gezelligheid embodies warmth, connection, and emotional cosiness.
• Efficiency and punctuality ensure work-life balance and respect for others’ time.
• These habits promote mental clarity, reduce stress, and foster stronger social bonds.
• Anyone can practise these habits—no matter where you live or how busy life gets.

Uitwaaien: The Windswept Reset Button

Ever walked along a beach, hair thrashing wildly in the wind, and felt oddly refreshed? That’s uitwaaien (pronounced “out-vine”) in action—a term that doesn’t quite translate but encapsulates the Dutch love for venturing out in wild weather. Uitwaaien literally means “to blow out,” and it’s all about letting the wind clear your head, your lungs, and maybe even your worries.

This isn’t a leisurely stroll under a sunny sky. Nope—ideally, it’s chilly, a bit grey, and blustery. And while most people would curl up indoors, the Dutch head outside. Forests, beaches, or city parks become therapy zones. There’s something healing about braving the elements and returning home wind-battered but mentally lighter. In a world of constant noise, uitwaaien reminds us to reconnect with nature—even when it’s not behaving nicely. It’s resilience, wellness, and a dose of northern grit rolled into one cold, beautiful ritual.

How You Can Practise Uitwaaien

• Check your weather app (the Dutch are obsessed with rain radars).
• Grab a scarf, a windproof coat, and hit your nearest patch of nature.
• Don’t worry about looking glamorous—it’s about how you feel when you get back.
• Make it a weekly ritual, especially during stressful periods.
• Pair it with silence or a good chat with someone who “gets it”.

Niksen: Doing Nothing on Purpose (and Loving It)

We’ve all been told to “just be still,” but the Dutch have elevated this to a cultural art form called niksen. It literally translates as “doing nothing,” but don’t mistake it for laziness. Niksen is purposeful idleness. It’s that rare moment when you’re not chasing productivity or even practicing mindful breathing—you’re just being, and that’s enough.

Picture this: you’re sat on the sofa, tea in hand, staring out the window. No phone, no podcast, no guilt. That’s niksen. The goal isn’t relaxation or problem-solving. It’s simply allowing yourself to exist without an agenda. You might daydream or let your mind wander, and that’s not only okay—it’s the point.

Ways to Niksen Without Feeling Guilty

• Set a timer for 10 minutes and let yourself do nothing—literally.
• Choose a “niks spot” in your home (window view? hammock?).
• Schedule niksen into your calendar just like a meeting.
• Resist the urge to turn it into another productivity hack.
• Remind yourself: rest isn’t earned, it’s essential.

Do Normal: The Power of Low-Key Living

In the Netherlands, there’s a saying: Doe normaal, dan doe je al gek genoeg, which means, “Just act normal, that’s crazy enough.” It’s not an insult—it’s a cultural mantra. At its heart lies Calvinist modesty, an aversion to excess, and a preference for the unremarkable. Overachievers are met with suspicion, not applause.

You won’t win admiration driving a flashy car or working 90-hour weeks. In fact, people might ask if you’re okay. The Dutch ideal is understated. Work hard, yes—but value your free time, spend modestly, and don’t brag about it. Life is less about climbing ladders and more about standing steadily on firm ground.

How to Adopt the “Do Normal” Mentality

• Ditch the pressure to “go big” or constantly prove your worth.
• Make decisions based on contentment, not competition.
• Reassess your goals—are they yours or someone else’s idea of success?
• Practise self-restraint in both spending and working hours.
• Celebrate “quiet wins” like a day off, a home-cooked meal, or doing nothing at all.

Gezelligheid: More Than Just Cosy

Gezelligheid is one of those Dutch words that refuses to be tamed by translation. It loosely means cosiness, but it’s deeper than candles and cushions. Gezelligheid is the feeling of warmth, connection, and belonging—whether you’re sipping wine with friends, gathered around a board game, or chatting with your gran over stroopwafels.

The Dutch actively cultivate gezelligheid. Living rooms are thoughtfully designed to be welcoming. Social gatherings often revolve around simple pleasures: tea, good company, laughter, and no rush to leave. It’s not just an aesthetic—it’s a value. And it applies equally to places, moments, and even people.

How to Make Your Life More Gezellig

• Light a candle or two during dinner—even on weekdays.
• Invite a friend over just to chat—no need for a fancy spread.
• Put away your phone when spending time with others.
• Add warm touches to your home: blankets, music, familiar smells.
• Make time for unhurried connection, without watching the clock.

Punctuality and Planning: Structure as Freedom

If spontaneity is your love language, Dutch punctuality may feel… a bit strict. But hear them out. To the Dutch, being on time is a sign of respect. Planning your week (and sometimes your year) in advance isn’t just organisation—it’s a way to carve out time for the things that truly matter.

Want to catch up with a Dutch friend? You’ll probably need to pencil it in two weeks ahead. Sounds rigid, but here’s the magic: once scheduled, that time is sacred. No last-minute cancellations, no vague maybes. It’s part of the culture’s underlying efficiency—maximising output at work so evenings and weekends are free to enjoy.

Practical Tips for Punctual Living

• Use a planner (digital or paper) to map out your week.
• Schedule both productivity and downtime—yes, even niksen and uitwaaien.
• Honour time commitments, even casual ones.
• Avoid the culture of “busy = important.” Prioritise wisely.
• View planning not as confinement but as protection for what you value.

The Dutch Way of Life

The Dutch way of life isn’t flashy or Instagram-perfect, and that’s exactly what makes it so powerful. It’s about embracing simplicity, finding joy in the everyday, and remembering that being present matters more than being impressive. Whether it’s a windswept walk, a guilt-free moment of stillness, or just catching up with a friend over tea—these habits aren’t just charming quirks. They’re tools for building a more balanced, intentional, and connected life.

So maybe it’s time we stop glorifying burnout and start scheduling some niksen. Maybe we aim for gezelligheid instead of extravagance. And maybe, just maybe, the best way to stand out… is to act a little more normal.

FAQs

What is the difference between Niksen and mindfulness?
While mindfulness encourages focused awareness on the present, niksen is about letting your mind wander freely without trying to stay focused or productive.

Can Uitwaaien be done in warm weather?
Technically yes, but true uitwaaien involves cold, windy conditions. The point is to feel refreshed by the elements—not just a sunny stroll.

Is Gezelligheid the same as Hygge?
They’re similar, but gezelligheid is more social. It centres around connection and warmth in company, not just physical cosiness.

Why are the Dutch so direct in communication?
Dutch culture values honesty and efficiency. Being clear—even blunt—is seen as respectful and time-saving, not rude.

Do Dutch people really plan their holidays a year in advance?
Yes! It’s common for people to plan vacations or meet-ups months in advance, especially in professional circles. Structure is their secret sauce.

This blog was based on an exceptional Youtube video by Peter Cook.

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