Written byTom Rath and Jim Harter “Wellbeing” is the result of Gallup research covering 150 countries, representing 98% of the world’s population. An easy read that will make you re-define your perception of happiness and wellness.
From this research, five universal elements of wellbeing emerged. These elements transcend nationality, culture and religion. “These elements differentiate a thriving life from one spent suffering.” 66% of the study participants were found to be doing well in at least one of the major areas, with just 7% thriving in all five
One interesting point is that wellbeing is not just about being happy. Nor is it about wealth, career success or physical health, but it is a combination of the five elements.
Career Well-Being: To be eager to begin work each day, feel appreciated as a person as well as an employee, respect supervisor, enjoys associates, speak with pride and appreciation about company to others
Social Well-Being: To have several strong relationships, be able to activate a support system when encountering problems, feel loved.
Financial Well-Being: To manage finances prudently, be aware of costs and in control of expenditures, living within your means.
Physical Well-Being: To get sufficient rest as well as regular rigorous exercise, have plenty of energy in reserve, eat sensibly.
Community Well-Being: To be actively and productively engaged in the neighborhood and in the community as well as in various groups within the area such as a church, school etc.
I agree with their statement that “one of the best ways to create more good days is by setting positive defaults. Any time you can help your short-term self work with your longer-term aims, it presents an opportunity. You can intentionally choose to spend more time with the people you enjoy most and engage your strengths as much as possible.”
Once our daily choices are in proper alignment with long-term benefits, our families, our friendships, our workplaces, and our communities will become healthier and thus even more worthwhile. If well-being is the objective, then well-becoming is the opportunity.
