Invest in Your Well-­Being

Written By: Mary Abranyi - Cashiers Valley Fusion | Issue: 2017/01 - Winter

There’s no time like the present to invest in your well-­being but what exactly does this mean?  Let’s look at this “investment” in terms of time, effort and money and the elements of “well-­being” as stand alone categories that have their own structures but contribute to the overall factors of health and happiness.  The categories are a complex combination of physical, social, career, financial and community. 

Physical Well-­Being is a matter of having a positive quality of life physically, mentally and spiritually.  Each of these layers need personal attention in order to attain positive growth and longevity in life.  The impact of incorporating good nutrition and exercise into your life can help with the aging process, prevent disease and enhance the way you feel.  Focusing on how, what, when and why we eat can be a game changer but it’s important that this is done without self-criticism. When eating, enjoy that time, the flavors, the smells of your meal, and realize that it should become a lifestyle not a fad diet or quick weight loss gimmick.  The same goes for how we designate our exercise of body, mind and spirit.  Pop into a yoga class, hit the gym, take a hike, sit in on a guided meditation session, align with something sacred, and breathe consciously.  Making time for “wellness breaks” in your routine is critical.   

Social Well-­Being is about cultivating and maintaining strong relationships that are mutually beneficial and also about having love in your life.  We begin learning social skills at an early age from our family, care givers, teachers, friends and foes and have an innate desire to want to belong. Surrounding yourself with people who think the glass is half-­full will create a positive space and a greater level of self-­confidence, in turn manifesting secure and loving bonds. 

Career Well-­Being is how you use your time to make money and liking what you do each day.  Mindfully choosing a career path that has low physical and psychological stress can improve your quality of life, personal effectiveness and purpose.  Allowing yourself to be accountable in whatever you choose and finding a sweet balance between time on and time off the job is also a necessary component. 

Your Financial Well-­Being comes from managing your economic life in a way that reduces stress and increases your feeling of financial security.  Several factors play into achieving this type of well being like feeling in control, having the capacity to absorb a financial surprise, staying on track to meet goals and having the flexibility to make choices.  When you face a financial choice, challenge or task, consider how your actions might affect your financial security and financial freedom and when in doubt, consult with a financial advisor or someone you trust and hold in high esteem. 

Finally, Community Well-­Being is about your sense of engagement and involvement where you live.  Get to know your neighbors, support local businesses, volunteer, attend social gatherings and take your skills into your community.