Wellbeing is a transient state that changes depending on what is going on in your life, your experiences and your perception of those experiences. Having good mental wellbeing means that you feel you have the resilience and ability to cope when times get rough. How do you get to this point?
Be aware of how you feel
Think back to a time when you felt positive and happy. This does not have to be focused on a specific event, more a period in your life when you felt comfortable, happy and healthy. On paper, briefly describe this time, then finish the following sentences that relate to the ‘five ways to wellbeing’ (download the everywoman workbook, 60 minutes to wellbeing – your personal action plan, for an explanation of what the ‘five ways’ are).
1. I felt connected at this time because ………
2. I was active at this time because ………
3. I took notice at this time because ………
4. I was learning at this time because ………
5. I was giving at this time because ………
Were you aware of feeling happy at this time? This awareness is an important part of understanding your own wellbeing.
What to do now
Take a few minutes now to think about how you feel – to be aware. Could your wellbeing improve? Below are suggestions for ways you can improve each of the ‘five ways to wellbeing’.
Have a think about each and jot down ideas of what you can change now to improve your current state of wellbeing to get you to the same place as the exercise above.
CONNECT – building stronger, broader social connections in your life can increase your feelings of happiness and self-worth.
- Spend time with those closest to you
- Speak to someone new
- Take time to have lunch with a colleague or friend
- Walk, run or cycle to work
- Take up a new sport
- Take the family on an activity-based holiday
- Practice slow breathing exercises a few times a day
- Savour the taste of your meals
- Take a five-minute break at work to clear your head
- Re-tune the radio and listen to something new
- Watch an interesting documentary
- Ask a friend to teach you a practical skill – perhaps teach them one in exchange
- Give compliments to those closest to you
- Tell someone ‘well done’
- Take some treats into work to share with colleagues
