"We can live our lives according to our values"

In Finland, we can do things that are important to us as a family and live our lives according to our values. We don’t own a car anymore. Here in Helsinki, we’re always close to nature, and getting around using the bike paths is easy, even in winter. Finland is also a safe country: our kids can hop on their bikes and be independent.

Everyday interactions are easy and natural in Finland, both at school and in the workplace. I don’t have to think about how to approach or talk to people. Children and parents can talk directly to the school headmaster without any titles or formalities.

If you go back to Finland, your attitude will be very important. There are many good things here, but not everything is perfect. How you look at things and what you consider important makes a big difference.

For me, it’s essential to be able to use my expertise at work. Titles and career paths carry less weight. A returning expat can spend some time at home with their family or take a new career path.

We all change, and that’s worth remembering. Even if you’re only gone for a year, you’ll change, as will your friends and all of Finland. Don’t assume that going back will be easy; it may not be. You’ll need the same openness and willingness to learn as when moving abroad.

In Germany, I mastered the language and culture. But I missed the forest, nature, silence and peace – just being able to “be” and life being uncomplicated.

Many people returning to Finland have aging parents. I wanted to return to my roots and family. In Finland, our boys can hop on a train to visit Grandma and Grandpa.

The fact that the pedagogical approach in the Finnish school system is still among the best in the world was also a major factor. The schools succeed in bringing out each student’s individual strengths. My children have experienced freedom of choice, encouragement and successes here.