The Viking Code

From Erling Haaland in football, to Karsten Warholm in sprinting and hurdling, to Viktor Hovland in golf, to Casper Ruud in tennis, Norwegian success in popular sports cannot be understated. This outsized influence is not a coincidence, but rather the result of the essence of what it means to be Norwegian. The Viking Code reveals the secrets of success that lie deeply rooted in Norwegian culture, leading to unprecedented peak performance in sports, with influence across society in business and politics and on the world stage. This book is a testament to the power of cultural values in shaping societies and futures and contains the keys to re-establish performance culture and redefine our understanding of leadership. Economic philosopher, investor, and former competitive athlete Anders Indset dives into a narrative of modern Viking culture that is not anchored in the past but firmly looks towards the future. It's not about barbaric conquests or daring historical comparisons. Instead, a story unfolds that leads us into a world yet unknown. This future, rooted in the values of Norwegians' unique performance culture, is about desire, rather than obligation. It's an attitude-focused vision, where success is pursued for the sheer joy of striving to be the best, free from envy. Arguably most important, it's about the fun of playing--and not just about the game itself. Empathy, teamwork, and other values accepted throughout Norwegian culture can help us all pave a better path forward. The Viking Code is a thought-provoking, inspiring, and practical recipe for all individuals seeking to learn how we can lead more meaningful lives by rejoicing in our own successes while simultaneously cheering on others to create a conscious culture of learning and progress.

Preface: You're allowed to Defy the Law of Jante vii
Part I Unearthing Hidden Talents 1
Chapter 1 Overcoming the Law of Jante: Trust Thyself 7
Chapter 2 Unleashing the Uncatchable: The Head-start Advantage 31
Chapter 3 Success Is Voluntary; Talent Can Be Found Everywhere 49
Chapter 4 Micro-ambitions 69
Chapter 5 Joyful, Joyful: From the Cultivation of Play to the Mastery of the Game 83
Chapter 6 "Dugnad": Everyone Participates 103
Chapter 7 The Viking Code: The New Oil 111
Part II The Viking Code as a Practical Philosophy 115
Chapter 8 The Viking Code in Society: One World Education 123
Chapter 9 Change Factor: The Viking Code Meets Politics 145
Chapter 10 Operating System: The Viking Code and the Economy 175
Chapter 11 Infinite Progress 203
Epilogue: The Life in Itself 215
References 219
About the Author 225
Index 227