WHEEL OF WELLNESS
The first entry of 2021 was all about setting SMART Goals; the message was quite appropriate given the new year but now, we introduce a context for setting those goals. We were first introduced to this concept – Six Dimensions of Wellness back early in our careers.
But what is it?
Six Dimensions of Wellness
https://nationalwellness.org/resources/six-dimensions-of-wellness/
“The National Wellness Institute promotes Six Dimensions of Wellness: 1) emotional, 2) occupational, 3) physical, 4) social, 5) intellectual, and 6) spiritual. Addressing all six dimensions of wellness in our lives builds a holistic sense of wellness and fulfillment.”
Thus, the connection between setting SMART Goals and the Six Dimensions of Wellness is to set goals in each of the six dimensions as listed below. Listed below are actual goals authored by me from 1988 in each of the dimensions.
Sample of Goals from 1988
Emotional: Through journal, share feelings and emotions
Occupational: Read 1-2 chapters of Career Tracking while taking notes
Physical: Establish / implement physical program
Social: Meet and make new friends
Intellectual: Read one book per month
Spiritual: Write in a journal 1-2 times per week
Below descriptions are from the National Wellness Institute
EMOTIONAL: The emotional dimension recognizes awareness and acceptance of one’s feelings. Emotional wellness includes the degree to which one feels positive and enthusiastic about one’s self and life. It includes the capacity to manage one’s feelings and related behaviors including the realistic assessment of one’s limitations, development of autonomy, and ability to cope effectively with stress.
OCCUPATIONAL: The occupational dimension recognizes personal satisfaction and enrichment in one’s life through work. At the center of occupational wellness is the premise that occupational development is related to one’s attitude about one’s work. Traveling a path toward your occupational wellness, you’ll contribute your unique gifts, skills, and talents to work that is both personally meaningful and rewarding.
PHYSICAL: The physical dimension recognizes the need for regular physical activity. Physical development encourages learning about diet and nutrition while discouraging the use of tobacco, drugs and excessive alcohol consumption. Optimal wellness is met through the combination of good exercise and eating habits.
SOCIAL: The social dimension encourages contributing to one’s environment and community. It emphasizes the interdependence between others and nature. As you travel a wellness path, you’ll become more aware of your importance in society as well as the impact you have on multiple environments. You’ll take an active part in improving our world by encouraging healthier living and initiating better communication with those around you.
INTELLECTUAL: The intellectual dimension recognizes one’s creative, stimulating mental activities. A well person expands his or her knowledge and skills while discovering the potential for sharing his or her gifts with others. Using intellectual and cultural activities in the classroom and beyond the classroom combined with the human resources and learning resources available within the university community and the larger community, a well person cherishes intellectual growth and stimulation.
SPIRITUAL: The spiritual dimension recognizes our search for meaning and purpose in human existence. It includes the development of a deep appreciation for the depth and expanse of life and natural forces that exist in the universe. Your search will be characterized by a peaceful harmony between internal personal feelings and emotions and the rough and rugged stretches of your path.
So, will you set SMART Goals using the Six Dimensions of Wellness?