5 Dutch Work Habits to Boost Your Productivity and Sanity
Hi there, I’m Judy Croon! My dad was from the Netherlands, and my mom was from Guyana. I was actually born in the Netherlands, so let me apologize now if I butcher some of the Dutch words I’m about to say.
I love exploring what makes different countries great—what habits, traditions, and quirks contribute to their happiness and success. I’ll definitely be doing separate segments on Guyana and Canada another time, but today, let’s focus on the Dutchies and their secrets to being productive without burning out.
The Dutch are some of the happiest, most stress-free people on the planet. But why?
Ever wondered how the Dutch manage to be among the most productive and happiest people in the world? According to the 2024 World Happiness Report, the Netherlands ranks 5th globally in happiness. And while it may seem like the Dutch are doing less, they actually maintain one of the highest levels of productivity in Europe.
So, what’s their secret?
Is it the canals? The bicycles? The fact that they’ve mastered the art of eating fries with mayo and zero shame? Maybe. But I think it has a lot to do with these five uniquely Dutch habits.
Let’s count down the top 5 Dutch Work Habits to Boost Your Productivity and Sanity that keep Dutchies efficient, stress-free, and surprisingly happy.
#5 – Dutch Efficiency: Life Runs on a Schedule (Literally!)
The Dutch don’t wing life. They schedule it. Work meetings? Planned. Coffee with a friend? Booked three weeks in advance. Spontaneity? That’s just a gap in the calendar that hasn’t been filled yet.
They even schedule fun. Family dinner? 6 PM sharp, no exceptions. And when the clock strikes 5 PM? Work is over. Done. Finished. If you’re still in the office at 5:01, Dutch people will assume you’ve lost control of your life.
#4 – The 60% Rule: Why Overachieving is Overrated
In many countries, success means giving 110%. The Dutch? They’re fine with 60%. Yep—six-zero. If you can do a job well enough without burning out, why push for perfection?
Dutch students, workers, even Olympic athletes operate on this principle. They don’t fail, they don’t stress, they just do enough—then they go home and enjoy their lives. It’s not laziness, it’s strategic efficiency. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is having anxiety attacks over Excel spreadsheets.
#3 – Uitwaaien: Blowing Away Your Problems (Literally)
(pronounced OUT-vye-en),
When life gets stressful, some people go to therapy, some meditate, and some drink. The Dutch? They walk into a storm. It’s called Uitwaaien (pronounced OUT-vye-en), and it means ‘blowing out’—as in, blowing out all the stress, anxiety, and existential dread.
Dutch people head to the beach, the countryside, anywhere with hurricane-level wind, and let nature physically remove their problems. If you ever see a Dutch person walking into a gale-force wind with zero concern, don’t be alarmed. They’re not lost—they’re healing.
#2 – Niksen: The Art of Doing Absolutely Nothing
The Dutch have taken relaxation to the next level with Niksen—the art of doing absolutely nothing. Not meditating, not scrolling, just existing. Staring out the window? That’s Niksen. Sitting in a chair doing nothing? Advanced Niksen. If you ever see a Dutch person sitting motionless, don’t ask if they’re okay—they’re thriving.
Meanwhile, in other countries, if you tell someone you’re ‘doing nothing,’ they panic. ‘Do you need a hobby? Should I send you a self-help book?’ No, Brenda. I’m Niksen-ing. Try it. Your burnout might thank you.
#1 – Gezelligheid: The Secret Ingredient to Happiness
At the heart of all this efficiency, balance, and relaxation is the ultimate Dutch superpower: Gezelligheid (heh-SELL-uh-hide). It’s a feeling—warmth, coziness, connection. It’s the opposite of stress.
Gezelligheid is a slow coffee with a friend, a candlelit dinner, a deep conversation. It’s the reason Dutch people take time to actually enjoy life. No rushing, no checking emails at dinner, just being in the moment. Other countries talk about ‘work-life balance’—the Dutch live it.
So what can we learn from the Dutch? Plan your time, work efficiently, take breaks, step away when needed, and actually enjoy life. If that sounds impossible, just tell your boss you’re practicing Niksen. The Dutch would approve.
Until next time, laugh long and prosper.
