The Little Book of Niksen. The Dutch Art of Doing Nothing

The Netherlands is one of the happiest countries in Europe and in the world. An important component of the happiness and mental health of the Dutch is niksen, or the art of doing nothing. This "secret of national happiness" is... deeply rooted in Dutch culture, but anyone can master it, regardless of ethnicity, language, or place of residence. No investments are required for this: you won't have to buy anything, change yourself, remodel your home, update your wardrobe, learn to meditate, or go on a diet. All you need to do is to do nothing! To unravel the mystery of niksen, journalist, writer, and translator Olga Mekking conducted extensive research, communicating with a wide range of experts—psychologists, sociologists, coaches, historians, cultural scientists—as well as with the Dutch themselves and those who have moved to the Netherlands from other countries and are mastering national traditions on the spot. As a result, she created a witty and practical book that offers effective tools for solving everyday problems and improving the quality of life here and now. Even if you are a very busy person and your days are scheduled down to the minute, Mekking will show you how to find time for niksen at home, at work, on the road, and will help you not only learn to relax and let go of the unnecessary but also to become happier, healthier, and more productive.