In today’s Instagram-fuelled world, travel is often painted as the ultimate expression of freedom. Whether it’s digital nomads broadcasting sunsets from Bali or solo travellers hiking through Patagonia, the message is clear: go, explore, and be bold. But what if your cultural background quietly whispers, don’t stand out, don’t show off, don’t think you're better than others?
That’s the internal struggle many face under the influence of the Law of Jante — a set of unspoken social rules that originated in Scandinavia, but which resonate far beyond its Nordic roots.
What is the Law of Jante?
The Law of Jante (Janteloven) is a cultural concept popularised by Danish-Norwegian author Aksel Sandemose in the 1930s. It outlines a social code that discourages individual achievement, pride, or perceived superiority. While not a literal law, it’s an unwritten standard woven into the mindset of many communities:
“You are not to think you're anything special.”
It’s a value system that prizes humility, equality, and conformity — often at the expense of personal ambition or self-expression.
The Law of Jante and the Traveller’s Mindset
While it might seem outdated in today’s individualistic, achievement-driven culture, the Law of Jante still lingers—especially among travellers from more modest, collectivist societies or close-knit communities.
It can manifest in small, but powerful ways:
-
Feeling guilty for spending money on travel when others can't.
-
Downplaying your adventures to avoid being seen as “showing off.”
-
Choosing safer, “socially acceptable” destinations over personal dream locations.
-
Avoiding travel altogether out of fear of judgment or perceived selfishness.
These internalised beliefs can make travel feel indulgent or even wrong, particularly for those raised to value humility over self-expression.
Breaking Free from Internal Limits
Understanding the Law of Jante isn’t about dismissing cultural values—it’s about recognising when those values become limiting. Here’s how to navigate this mental conflict:
1. Reframe Travel as Growth, Not Glamour
Instead of seeing travel as showing off, view it as a path to personal development. Learning a new language, experiencing different cultures, or even gaining courage through solo travel can be deeply humbling.
2. Share with Intention
If you're hesitant about posting photos or stories, ask yourself: Why am I sharing this? If it’s to inspire, inform, or connect—not to boast—then it’s a meaningful exchange, not a violation of modesty.
3. Travel Quietly, but Fully
You don’t need to document everything or explain yourself. It’s okay to travel without permission or validation. Go for the experience, not the applause.
4. Lead by Example
You might inspire someone in your circle who never thought travel was “for people like us.” By stepping out, you give others silent permission to dream louder.
A Final Thought
The Law of Jante doesn’t vanish just because you book a flight. It often travels with you—in your backpack, in your silence, in the way you shrink yourself in group conversations. But recognising its presence is the first step to loosening its grip.
Travelling is not about ego—it’s about expansion. And sometimes, the boldest act of rebellion is simply allowing yourself to go.
Comments
0 comment