I heard a cool new word from Swedish culture today, “fika.” It’s a neat little word for a neat thing: taking an intentional coffee and/or snack break to socialize and step away from whatever actual thing you’re doing.
That’s a neat concept, but it isn’t revolutionary. I joked that in South Jersey we have that too, but it’s called a “jeet yet?” (For those unfamiliar, it’s a joke about both the way it sounds when we quickly spit out the phrase “did you eat yet” as well as the fact that we use that basically as an open invitation to do anything together.)
What is revolutionary about it is naming it and being aware of the intention behind it. “Fika” isn’t just taking a break and eating. It’s shifting your mindset away from a task and onto socializing or building community. “Breaking bread” with someone, if you will.
Whatever language you use, do this more often. Build your relationships and your community. Take the time to breathe and eat together. Laugh. It’s as essential as the food itself.
The Opportunity Machine 