Study reveals changing life satisfaction among residents in Greater Oslo during pandemic

Summer vacation is here, and the quest for the elusive “good life” is more relevant than ever. However, the path to achieving this can be challenging, and it’s easy to stray off course. Reflecting on lessons from the pandemic era may offer valuable insights.

A recent study examined how residents in the Greater Oslo area adapted their daily lives and travel habits from fall 2019 to summer 2022, and how these changes affected their life satisfaction. The study utilized data from a survey of 1,228 participants conducted over four years and included in-depth interviews in 2020 and 2022.

During the pandemic, people experienced more time at home and in their local neighborhoods, which had positive effects for many. Individuals reduced their frequency and distance of daily travel and vacationing, with many adopting remote work arrangements. Despite facing challenges like fear of infection, increased time spent locally contributed to greater life satisfaction.

Engaging with the local community, enjoying leisurely walks, and participating in local businesses provided individuals a sense of freedom and connection. These activities often had minimal environmental impact, as seen in reduced CO₂ emissions during the early pandemic period.

Yet, as restrictions lifted, people gradually reverted to their former busy lifestyles filled with commitments and travel. Life satisfaction saw a slight decline, with many expressing lost control over their daily routines. The social pressures to conform to high-paced living made it difficult to prioritize local enjoyment.

To navigate these challenges, it’s essential to reflect on what worked well during the pandemic and consider what we’ve lost. By fostering a clearer awareness of our desires and the obstacles in our way, we can create more room for the joys we seek in everyday life and potentially step closer to our vision of a fulfilling summer.