If you’ve ever traveled to Iceland or spent time with Icelanders, you might have come across the phrase “Þetta reddast” (pronounced thetta red-ast). This simple yet profound saying translates to “it will all work out” or “everything will be fine.” It encapsulates a core philosophy of Icelandic culture: resilience, optimism, and the belief that even in the face of uncertainty or adversity, things will somehow come together.
For those dealing with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), this mindset could be a breath of fresh air. While it’s not a solution in itself, embracing the spirit of “Þetta reddast” may help ease some of the weight that these conditions can bring.
Understanding “Þetta Reddast”
Icelanders have a deep connection to nature, and living on a remote, often harsh island has shaped their outlook on life. The “Þetta reddast” attitude is not about ignoring problems but about facing them with a sense of trust that, no matter how tough things get, they’ll work out in the end. Icelanders tend to be pragmatic, knowing that stressing over uncontrollable circumstances doesn’t solve anything. Instead, they adopt an attitude that encourages resilience and adaptability.
When we are struggling or just having a difficult time, reminding ourselves that things will at some point work out, can be helpful. Adjusting mindset is something that we work a lot on in therapy, making changes to the way that we think about life can help us take a step back, breathe, remind ourselves that things turned out to be okay in the past and will likely be okay again.
How “Þetta Reddast” Can Help
People with OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) often feel trapped in cycles of worry, fear, sadness and shame. The future seems bleak, and the present feels overwhelming. Embracing “Þetta reddast” doesn’t mean denying those feelings but accepting that you don’t have to solve everything immediately. It offers a way to reframe assessments we make about life and reduce the pressure of perfection or control. Here’s how:
Reducing the Pressure of Perfection:
Anxiety often found in conjunction with Perfectionism, can manifest in a need for things/situations/relationships to go a certain way, look a certain way or turn out in a certain way. We may engage in many different types of attempts to ensure that things turn out the way that we want. Reminding ourselves, that things work out, they have worked out in the past and will continue to work out and letting go a little of the attempts to “make them” work out can provide some relief.
Managing Uncertainty:
For those struggling with the need for certainty, “Þetta reddast” is about embracing uncertainty. Yikes! It sounds incredibly hard to do when anxiety is vibrating through your heart, soul and mind. Taking small steps and trusting that things will unfold as they should can help us sit a little easier in the uncertainty.
Offering Hope During Depressive Episodes:
Depression can make the future seem hopeless and bleak. Especially during difficult times of the year. Though it is often sunny, bright (& humid) and as the year comes to a close in Houston, days get shorter, less sunlight often means less time outside, Seasonal Affect Disorder often occurs for individuals during this time of year, holiday stress increases and post holiday blues can pop up. “Þetta reddast” can help remind us that seasons change, longer sunnier days are ahead and it encourages patience and self-compassion, reminding us that life is fluid, and even dark days pass.
Here are some ways to incorporate this philosophy into your daily life:
- Start Small: Begin by applying the “Þetta reddast” attitude to minor stressors. If you’re stuck in Houston traffic or have a looming deadline, remind yourself that it will work out. Over time, you can apply this perspective to bigger issues.
- Focus on What You Can Control: Part of the “Þetta reddast” mindset involves accepting that some things are beyond your control. Focus on what you *can* do today, and trust that the rest will fall into place in time.
- Let Go of Perfectionism: For those struggling with the idea that “things must be perfect” can lead to a great deal of anxiety. Reminding yourself that not everything needs to be perfect—and that things will still work out—can help alleviate some of that stress.
- Practice Mindfulness: Being present and practicing mindfulness can complement the “Þetta reddast” attitude. Mindfulness teaches you to observe your thoughts without judgment, helping you embrace life’s uncertainties with more ease.
Final Thoughts on “Þetta Reddast”
While “Þetta reddast” can be helpful, it is not a cure all. If you’re dealing with OCD and are looking for help, it can be invaluable to build a team around you. A great place to start is by finding a mental health professional to walk with you on this part of your journey. At The Houston Center for Valued Living, there are a number of therapists who specialize in treating OCD, anxiety disorders, and depression.
While the Icelandic saying “Þetta reddast” may seem like a simple phrase, its deeper meaning offers an empowering outlook on life, particularly for those struggling with mental health issues. The philosophy encourages you to trust that, even when life feels uncertain or challenging, things will eventually work out.
For those of us living in Houston, where life’s pace can often feel overwhelming, adopting this Icelandic mindset can offer a calming balance. Whether you’re managing the everyday stresses of work and relationships or battling deeper mental health challenges, embracing “Þetta reddast” could help bring a little more peace into your life.
Christen Sistrunk, MA, LPC-S, is a licensed professional counselor and supervisor at The Houston Center for Valued Living. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in treating anxiety, OCD, and perfectionism in adults and teens, using evidence-based approaches like CBT and ACT. Christen is passionate about helping clients build meaningful lives and break free from the grip of overwhelming thoughts and emotions. Learn more about her work at The Houston Center for Valued Living.