Author: Erika Engelbrecht-Aldworth
Publication Date: 7 January 2025
What makes you feel truly alive? Perhaps it is a morning run, a deep conversation with a friend, or a moment of calm. We are all pursuing that “good life,” but how do we achieve it? Let us explore well-being and discover how small steps can spark significant changes.
Well-being is not solely about green smoothies—it is a science-backed journey to enhance physical, mental, emotional, and social health (Reese & Myers, 2012). It resembles building a house: every brick, from better sleep to stronger relationships, matters. Well-being is the outcome—a sense of purpose, joy, and resilience (Ryff & Keyes, 1995). It is not about avoiding illness but thriving, even when life becomes challenging.
Research indicates that conscious choices, such as eating well or managing stress, improve quality of life (Frijters et al., 2020). Individuals who prioritise health and connections often report greater happiness. Consider it akin to tending a garden—daily habits, such as a quick stretch or a kind word, grow into well-being. Health and lifestyle work together, creating a cycle where feeling good fuels better choices (Kelly, 2018).
Are you ready to begin? Select one small change today—perhaps swap a coffee for water or text a friend. Well-being is a marathon, not a sprint, especially in our technology-heavy world and post-COVID era. What is one well-being goal you are excited about? Share it in the comments below. Next week, we will examine why health is your well-being superpower.
References
Frijters, P., Clark, A. E., Krekel, C., & Layard, R. (2020). A happy choice: Wellbeing as the goal of government. Behavioural Public Policy, 4(2), 126–165.
Kelly, C. (2018). ‘I need the sea and the sea needs me’: Symbiotic coastal policy narratives for human wellbeing and sustainability in the UK. Marine Policy, 97, 223–231.
Reese, R. F., & Myers, J. E. (2012). Ecowellness: The missing factor in holistic wellness models. Journal of Counseling & Development, 90(4), 400–406.
Ryff, C. D., & Keyes, C. L. M. (1995). The structure of psychological well-being revisited. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 69(4), 719–727.