life experience

Jun

2022

5 Advantages of Traveling Solo

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Have you traveled solo? Traveling on a road trip with companions is always more fun. However, not all of your travel buddies might be available to travel with you all the time; so why not consider traveling solo? Traveling solo may seem boring but it can actually be a fun trip. You can enjoy it as much as when you’re traveling with somebody else.

Try traveling solo at least once in your life and get to enjoy some of its advantages:

1. A Sense of Absolute Freedom

When traveling alone you’ll relish a sense of absolute freedom even more. You won’t have to fit in with any one else’s agenda for the day. You’ll get to do the things you really want to do without being pressured by your peers or having to consider somebody else’s travel preferences.

2. Take Your Own Sweet Time

Traveling solo means you can spend your time the way you want. Want to spend the whole afternoon getting lost in a museum? Want to walk on foot to take pictures of the great architecture? You can indulge in what you truly want without having to cut your time short. Just immerse yourself in what you enjoy doing the most. Focus on the things that make you feel like your travel will be worth it.

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3. Enhance Your Self Reliance

Going on a trip alone also means that you need to plan things carefully before hand. So if you’re not the type to research, you’ll have to develop the skill in order to plan your trip. During the trip, you will also learn how to ask questions on your own and ask help from total strangers when you need it. Traveling by yourself will not only help you increase your research and social skills, it will also help you build your self-confidence in the process. Be sure to observe proper etiquette when traveling to avoid any awkward situations.

4. Expand Your Network of Friends

Usually, when we travel with a group or a friend, we tend to stick with the group or with our friend. When you travel alone, you will naturally get to interact with many new people, some of which might end up as your travel companions for the duration of your trip and maybe even friends who will want to travel with you in the future. You can actually expand your network of friends when you travel alone. How many love stories were born out of meeting each other while traveling on their own?

5. Really Getting to Unplug

Traveling alone means you’re not tied to your phone to chat with your travel buddies on where they are at the moment and where you will meet next. Since you are by yourself, you can put your mobile device and other gadgets away whenever you want to and just enjoy the present moment without worrying about other people’s whereabouts.

Got more ideas on the fun you can have when traveling solo? Do share them with us.

Updated. First published on Pinoy Smart Living on 2019.05.16.
Feature Image: Original Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash.

Jun

2022

Signs That You Are Enjoying Occupational Wellness

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Day dreaming in your job instead of working in your dream job? Not all of us may be working in our dream job yet, but we still need to ensure our occupational wellness. Here are some signs that tell us that we are at least enjoying occupational wellness in our work life.

Remember that occupational wellness means “being able to achieve a balance between work and leisure with the freedom to make choices that promote personal satisfaction and career growth.” So the following signs should be taken into consideration with the end goal of achieving work-life balance.

A Sense of Purpose

Your current job may not be your dream job or your life purpose but at least what you are doing in your current job should give you a sense of purpose. You should have a clear understanding of how your work affects other people in your work place and/or outside it. In this way, you have a sense of satisfaction or accomplishment when you do a good job for a project or when you finish your tasks each day.

Developing Your Strengths

Usually, you are hired for the job because you have the skills to fulfill the job responsibilities. However, what you do should also help you hone your skills further through both practical experience and gaining new knowledge. You should have a sense of improvement in your tasks and projects as well as in your relationships with the people you are working with. Being excited to flex your skills and knowledge in your workplace is one of the signs that you are enjoying occupational wellness.

Motivational Challenges

One of the ways to develop your strengths and to gain new knowledge and experience is to tackle on challenges. You may be assigned new tasks or given bigger responsibilities in your job. Special training may be provided you or your company welcomes you taking some time to train yourself outside of work. These are healthy challenges that help you grow in your career. If you have the confidence to tackle the challenge then welcome them with enthusiasm. Be open to the change and the future possibilities that it can bring.

Healthy Communication

A healthy working environment includes clear communication lines. When you are giving a challenge and you think you need help; then you should be able to do so without fear of any repercussions. Being able to talk to both your superiors and subordinates about your job expectations and challenges, as well as toxic workmates and situations, are good signs that you are enjoying occupational wellness in your career. This also means being able to talk about how you want to improve in your job and how your company can support your goal of improvement.

Healthy Boundaries

Your job should allow you to have a life outside of your job. You should be able to spend adequate time with your family and friends while being able to perform well in your job. Your home life should not suffer because of your job and vice versa. Vacations and sick leaves should be treated as such and respected. Unless it’s an emergency; you shouldn’t have to worry about your work while on your family vacation. In the same way; you should be able to focus on your work and not be distracted by your family members unless it’s your break time.

If you think your occupational wellness is suffering; then check out some ways to help you improve your occupational wellness score.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Windows on Unsplash.

Jun

2022

Dreams of A Better Future

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Do your dreams reflect that of a better future? Not just for you, for everyone around you; even for the world. The dreams that you vaguely recall upon waking up are not what we mean here. We mean the dreams that you have consciously; the ones that you created in your own magic shop, which you constantly visualize; those that you’ve listed on your bucket list. Your dreams can be a preview to your future. It all depends on how you will work to turn them into reality.

No matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.
– Lupita Nyong’O

We sometimes hesitate to craft new dreams or pursue our childhood dreams because of failures and the fear of failing again. Our negative experiences in the past has made us fearful. We may have felt guilty for disappointing our parent’s expectations, our bosses, our colleagues and friends, even complete strangers. The next time, we failed keeping a promise to an important person in our life; we disappointed someone. As negative experiences like this piled up; so did our fears of dreaming. This does not mean we should stop dreaming or pursuing our dreams. Let us be driven by our passion instead of our fears.

If you have a heartbeat, there’s still time for your dreams.
– Sean Stephenson

There is no correct time to start working on your dream or to give up on them. It is all up to you. What you dream about is all up to you. You can shape your future any way you want it to be. Each one of us is a creator with different skills. Unleash your own genius and continue working on your dreams. Take the risk and try something new. You will never know what you are capable of if you don’t try different things. It is usually through this journey that you stumble upon your life purpose. Remember that it is never too late to dream again or to pick up on your dreams. As long as you are alive; you can choose to move forward.

If your dreams don’t scare you they are too small.
– Richard Branson

Have you ever heard the advise to “dream big”? What does that actually mean? How do you know that your dreams are big enough? One of the ways to know if your dreams are big enough is if they scare you. It is scary to pursue them because they may seem impossible to achieve. You may feel foolish because you will be taking too big of a risk. You cannot control all the things that can help you succeed. However, you can prepare for them. Challenges are always part of the journey to success. All you need to do is to keep showing up to work on your dream, one small step at a time.

A single dream is more powerful than a thousand realities.
– J.R.R. Tolkien

Don’t be intimated by what others have already achieved. Just keep working on that one single dream that you truly want to come true. You never know how much it can change your life or how it will benefit other people in the long run. Stay focused and you will wake up one day with your dream already a reality. It may not put you in the history books but it will surely put you in the hearts of the people who got involved with you in the journey. Then, when you have achieved your dream; you can dream again – a bigger dream maybe. Keep on dreaming and working on your dreams.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Thought Catalog on Unsplash.

May

2022

The Four Agreements: A Code of Conduct for Happiness

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The Four Agreements was published in 1997. It has sold around 10 million copies and has been on the New York Times Bestselling list for almost a decade. In this book, retired surgeon and Eagle-Knight shaman Don Miguel Ruiz provides a code of conduct that we can follow to reduce suffering and find peace in our every day life.

Don Miguel Ruiz states that everything we do is based on agreements that we make. These are agreements we make with our selves, with our family members, bosses, colleagues, clients, even with God and with life, in general. By observing the four agreements; we can transcend the limiting beliefs that keep us bound to the rules and boundaries of our every day reality. It gives us a different perspective on how we can live a life of freedom, truth, happiness and love.

1. Be Impeccable With Your Word

The way we talk to ourselves is the way we talk about others and to the rest of the world. Therefore, it is important be careful with how we use our words. Get in the habit of saying only what you mean and when in doubt, say nothing at all. This is especially important in the age of social media where fake news and gossip are easily created, distributed and consumed.

Words transform. Speak only with good purpose. Say only things that serve you and others. Choose your words wisely.
– Robert G. Allen

Before you pass on information or to deal with information from others; keep in mind Socrates’ Triple Filter Test: Is it true? Is it good or kind? Is it useful? If you can’t answer YES to any of the 3 questions, then it’s best not to spread the word. Remember, think before you speak or before you click to share.

2. Don’t Take Anything Personally

Remember that the words and actions of other people are the products of their own experiences. Keep in mind that if you were in their shoes; you might speak and act the same way that they do as well. You can always choose to avoid toxic people. You can always choose to not to behave like a toxic person yourself.

We can never judge the lives of others, because each person knows only their own pain and renunciation. It’s one thing to feel that you are on the right path, but it’s another to think that your’s is the only path.
– Paulo Coelho

Few people are conscious of their own actions and are not always able to control themselves in various situations.

People love to judge, get used to it and stop taking it personally.
– Kathryn Budig

So, if someone reacted negatively to you; don’t take it to heart. They may just be having a bad day but that shouldn’t affect your whole day.

3. Don’t Make Assumptions

Assumptions are one of the most popular cause of misunderstanding. A lot of disappointments are often the result of people assuming things without asking the other person if it is true, if they approve of the information, if they agree to the conditions, etc. We often assume that we have a “mutual understanding” and then we end up suffering from unmet expectations. Of course, this is unfair to the other person who was not even aware that you had such expectations of them.

The most misleading assumptions are the ones you don’t even know you’re making.
– Douglas Adams

Instead of assuming, look and listen without judgment. Be courageous enough to ask questions to clarify and to understand. When someone is giving an answer to your question, truly listen. Be aware of your own tendency to assume things about yourself and other people as well as about certain situations.

4. Always Do Your Best

We always want to be the best we can be, at all times. We forget that our best changes from moment to moment even as our thoughts and emotions change from moment to moment. Even our goals change throughout the day just as the people around us are constantly coming and going along. Not everyone can be the best at everything they want or do. Everyone has different abilities and is good at different things; so it is also not good to always compare yourself with other people.

Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.
– Maya Angelou

Instead of aiming to be consistently good all the time; aim to do your very best with what you can, with what you have, from where you are, at the moment. It is not everyday that you can run a mile in the same number of minutes; sometimes you have to limp along in order to reach the finish line. The important thing is you accomplished something and progressed a little bit towards your goal instead of doing nothing to move forward.

It will take a lot of discipline and consistent practice to truly master observance of the four agreements. You will need to love yourself enough to recognize and accept your own self-imposed agreements. By being aware of these limiting beliefs you imposed on yourself; you can forgive yourself and create better agreements. Start with yourself so you can become more confident to do the same with other people around you.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Chris Liverani on Unsplash.

May

2022

Different Smarts: What is Your Intelligence Type?

Reading Time: 4 minutes

Ever wondered what your intelligence type is? What kind of intelligent are you? What kind of “smarts” do you have? We usually divide ourselves into book smart or street smart. One is based mostly on the academic way of learning. The other is based on learning from experiences. There are actually different types of intelligences.

The Theory of Multiple Intelligences

In 1983, Howard Gardner, an American development psychologist at Harvard University, introduced the different types of intelligence in the book “Frames of Mind”. He describes that there are multiple types of human intelligence. Each one represents a different way of how a person best processes the information that they receive from different sources.

The multiple intelligences theory states that everyone has all types of intelligences at varying degrees of proficiency. Each one’s learning style is not related to the areas in which they are most intelligent. Classifying learners by their learning style or intelligence type will only limit their potential for learning and developing their skills. A variety of activities and learning approaches is the best way to help individuals hone their potential.

The 9 Types of Intelligences

Here’s a summary of the different types of intelligences. Which one do you relate with most? Focus on honing that area to enhance your intellectual wellness. This is a good first step to unleashing the genius in you.

VISUAL-SPATIAL: Picture Smart

These are people who are good at visualizing, understanding directions and reading maps, charts, videos, and pictures. They usually read and write for fun. Their interests include drawing, painting and photography. Putting puzzles together is fun for them and they recognize patters easily.

This intelligence type can be great architects, pilots, fashion designers, artists, surgeons or engineers.

LINGUISTIC-VERBAL: Word Smart

This type uses language well. They enjoy reading and writing and are usually good at remembering written and spoken information. Debates and giving persuasive speeches are part of their skill set. They explain things very well. Humor in telling stories is part of their communication style.

These types usually pursue careers in writing like journalism, novelist, poets, editors, teachers and lawyers.

LOGICAL-MATHEMATICAL: Number/Reasoning Smart

A friend who is your group’s math whiz falls under this type. They have strong skills in analyzing problems and mathematical operations. Number crunching and problem solving are their specialties. They enjoy thinking about abstract ideas and can solve complex computations. They like conducting scientific experiments.

Being a scientist, mathematician, economist, computer programmer, engineer or accountant will suit them well.

BODY-KINESTHETIC: Body Smart

Know someone who is good at body movement and has great physical control? Do they have excellent hand-eye coordination and dexterity? These people have great motor control and are skilled at dancing and sports. They like creating things with their own hands. With their excellent physical coordination; they remember things better by doing.

They can become body builders, mechanics, athletes, physical therapists, sculptors, and actors.

MUSICAL: Music Smart

Thinking in patterns, rhythms and sounds is a unique characteristic of this type. They have a strong appreciation for music and are skilled at composing music and musical performance. They easily remember songs and melodies, musical patterns and tones. Their rich understanding of musical structure, rhythm, and notes helps them enjoy singing and playing musical instruments.

Musicians, composers, singers, song writers, DJs, music teachers, and conductors are musically intelligent.

INTERPERSONAL: People Smart

People who are good at interacting and understanding other people fall under this type. They are skilled at assessing emotions, motivations, desires and even the intentions of people around them. You will usually see them helping to resolve conflicts in group settings and encouraging positive relationships where ever they go. They communicate well verbally. Skilled at nonverbal communication, they feel empathy easily.

Their ability to easily see situations from different perspectives makes them great psychologists, philosophers, counselors, team managers, negotiators, publicists, social workers, life coaches, salespersons and politicians.

INTRAPERSONAL: Self Smart

These types of people are very aware of their own emotional states and motivations. They enjoy introspection, self-reflection and analysis. Daydreaming is one of their past times. They like exploring their relationships with others and are able to analyze their strengths and weaknesses well.

With their excellent self-awareness; they enjoy analyzing theories and ideas. This makes them good therapists, counselors, psychologists, philosophers, writers, theorists, scientists and entrepreneurs.

NATURALISTIC: Nature Smart

This intelligence type is a recent addition to Gardner’s theory. Individuals under this type are in tune with nature. They like exploring their environment, finding patterns and relationships to nature. Their nurturing tendencies make them interested in learning about other species. They are very sensitive to subtle changes happening in their surroundings. Categorizing and cataloguing information comes easily to them. Gardening, hiking, camping and exploring the outdoors are favorite hobbies.

They are interested in subjects like botany, biology and zoology; making them good biologists, botanists, florists, geologists, conservationists, gardeners and farmers.

EXISTENTIAL: Abstract Smart

The most complex of all the types, people under this type tend to be sensitive and very considerate. They ask deep questions about human existence and the meaning of life and all of existence. They are deeply spiritual and tend to ask big questions about life and death like why are we here? What is the point of all this? Small talk and superficial chitchat are often not satisfying to them. They are deeply philosophic thinkers, always asking questions bigger than themselves.

This type is often called spiritual or moral intelligence and is often referred to as “life smart”. They like reflective and deep thinking and designing abstract theories; making them good scientists, philosophers, theologians, inspirational speakers, writers, authors, economists, and bloggers.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash.

Apr

2022

5 Ways to Deal with Toxic Relatives

Reading Time: 3 minutes

We all would like to love our family members unconditionally, even our toxic relatives. They usually have toxic personalities and their behavior stresses us out. It is particularly hard to avoid them during family gatherings and holiday celebrations. So how do you deal with them without losing your sanity and still be able to enjoy family gatherings?

Here are 5 ways you can avoid getting stressed out from toxic family members and avoid playing the blame game too. With these tips, you can still keep in touch with the relatives you do love to be around with.

1. Mentally prepare yourself

Before going to that family gathering, mentally prepare yourself for the expected onslaught of your toxic relatives. You have been through the experience before, so review those times. Think of how you can better answer their annoying questions. Plan how you can handle the same situation if it comes up again. This way, you will be prepared to react when you encounter the person. This ensures that you can still enjoy the rest of the reunion.

2. Minimize communication

You can’t help engaging with all family members; you can choose to limit attention to those who stress you out. Only talk to them when necessary and don’t talk about personal matters to keep the conversation short. Mentally prepare yourself so it will be easier for you to navigate these situations without dreading it each time.

3. Focus on the joys, not the drama

No matter how toxic some relatives can be, there must be at least one person who can relate to you. There might even be someone who has the same experience as you regarding said family member. If there are more of you, then the more reason for you to not dread the reunion. Focus on the joy of spending time with these beloved family members (a.k.a. support group) instead.

4. Don’t try to change the person

You may feel that you’ve had enough and decide to confront the person head-on to clear up things. You may want to confront them to change their opinion or attitude towards you and their issues. Maybe you have already attempted to confront them before and only ended up disrupting the gathering. If this is the case, then it is better to accept that you can’t change the person. This is especially true if the said relative is older than you. Keep in mind that they may already be too set in their ways to at this point in their life. Instead, forgive them but don’t forget their shenanigans and keep a cautious distance from them.

5. Rewrite your role in the family drama

If the reason you dread going to family gatherings is that the whole family has designated you into a particular role that you didn’t consent to; then try to change your role. For example, you may be constantly relied upon to take care of a cry baby sibling who is old enough to fend for themselves. Learn to put your foot down on these toxic relatives. The next time they start crying over an issue, let the offenders (the people who caused the crying) take responsibility. Even if you have the urge to mediate, refrain from doing so. This is to send the message that you are not responsible for picking up after other people.

There are different kinds of toxic people. It is easier to prepare yourself on how to deal with them if you know which type they are. This way, you don’t end up becoming a toxic person yourself. Do you have other tips on how to deal with toxic family members?

Toxic people can be in your workplace too. Check out some tips on how to deal with toxic colleagues. You should also take the time to check your social wellness.

Updated. First published on Pinoy Smart Living on 2019.07.31.
Feature Image: Original Photo by Vera Arsic from Pexels.

Mar

2022

Do You Know About Environmental Wellness?

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Do you know about environmental wellness? Are you environmentally well? Having a healthy environment is important. It is where we go about pursuing our goals. It is important that our environment makes us feel safe to express our authentic ourselves. We should feel safe enough to do what we want to do, and receive support from our social circle too.

One of the first conditions of happiness is that the link between man and nature shall not be broken.
– Leo Tolstoy

In reality, not everyone is in an ideal environment to stay healthy and focused on self growth. However, there are some things that we can do to improve our environment. Here are 10 questions you can ask yourself to assess your environmental wellness.

Are You Taking Care of Your Environment?

Ask yourself: Do I …

Make a conscious effort to conserve energy (by shutting off lights when not in use, keeping doors closed to preserve cool air, walking, biking, or carpooling, etc.) whenever I can?
Purchase energy-efficient products and sustainable materials when possible?
Make a conscious effort to conserve water at home and in other places I go to?
Do my part to reduce air pollution (by keeping my car tuned up, having plants around my living space and home, etc.)?
Make a conscious effort to not litter (bringing reusable water tumblers, etc.)?
Recycle and use recyclable products?
Buy organic and sustainable products even though they can be more expensive?
Buy from local farmers and businesses whenever I can even though it can be more expensive?
Spend time to support environmental organizations and activities?
Keep myself updated on current environmental issues as well as potential solutions and strategies?

There are many more things that we can do to help us achieve and maintain our environmental wellness. Being mindful of how we contribute to environmental issues is a small step that we can do right away. Then, we can start making conscious efforts to reduce our negative impact on the environment. In our own homes, we can start by clearing our space of negative energy and decluttering. This way, we can have clarity on how we can improve all dimensions of our wellness.

Featured Image: Original Photo by Lucas Allmann from Pexels.

Mar

2022

Religion and Spirituality: Is There A Difference?

Reading Time: 2 minutes

What is the difference between spirituality and religion? Spirituality and religion are different concepts; but they often get confusing. We often end up describing our religious beliefs and practices when talking about our spirituality. Their purpose and practices can overlap and crossover, but they do have some basic differences.

Institutional vs Individual

Religion, by definition, is an institutionalized set of beliefs. It is practiced by a group of people; generally, in the service and worship of God or the divine. Exclusivity is also a feature of religion. When you are a member of a particular religious group; you cannot be a member of another religious group.

On the other hand, spirituality is more of a deeply personal experience. Its purpose is mainly to connect with something larger than you. This is experience is also referred to as a divine connection. Spirituality is also inclusive as it recognizes different modalities of connecting with the divine. In both cases, the experience of engaging with the divine, through worship, or personal connection, is considered sacred.

Objective vs Subjective

Religion is more of an objective experience. The external environment has a lot to do with its practice. For example, you go to a place of worship (e.g., church, temple, mosque, etc.), and you learn from a book of scriptures. There are also traditions and rituals that you observe to practice your religious beliefs.

Spirituality is more of a subjective experience. It focuses more on the internal process of developing your inner understanding and self awareness. Spirituality recognizes that individuals’ have their own pace in developing spirituality. It also accepts different ways of observing one’s spirituality. Although the focus of the practice may be different, both encourage self-reflection for the individual to grow and improve.

Judgment vs Acceptance

Another difference between religion and spirituality is the approach or the perspective in their teachings. In religious beliefs, failing to observe or practice its tenets generally results in punishment; while those devoted to the practice are rewarded. Though this may not be the intention; sadly, the concept of original sin, judgment, divine retribution and reward, encourage devotion more often based on fear.

In contrast, spirituality has a less judgment-based approach and encourages a more compassionate perspective. It recognizes that there are different world-views with the belief that they can all co-exist through understanding and compassion, acceptance and understanding, and a common desire to create a peaceful world for all. Forgiveness and letting go are encouraged more than punishment. Though this may sound too idealistic; the underlying concept is basically to act in the world with love as your guiding principle.

Spirituality is an important component in your overall wellness. Spirituality and religion are different but they also have a lot of similarities. When you are a member of a religious organization; it does not mean that you cannot be spiritual. Spirituality encompasses different ways of experiencing the divine. Religious practices are one of the many ways to develop your spirituality.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Mikhail Nilov from Pexels.

Mar

2022

How to Improve Your Intellectual Wellness

Reading Time: 3 minutes

How would you like to improve your intellectual wellness? Intellectual wellness is an important component of our overall wellness. We are actively using our intellect in our daily life even if we are not always aware of it.

A high IQ is not the only measure of intelligence. There are different ways that individuals manifest intelligence. We often think of Albert Einstein when we think of intelligent people with high IQs. But we also have geniuses in music, art, engineering, and other fields of study. Here are some ways that can help you improve your intellectual wellness.

Take Care of Your Health

It takes a healthy body to maintain a healthy brain. Your physical wellness is the foundation that will help you develop and enhance all other aspects of your wellness. So drink your 8 glasses of water daily, eat healthy, exercise regularly and sleep adequately. There is such a thing as a mind-body connection. You won’t be able to focus on improving your mind if you don’t have a healthy body.

To keep a healthy body in good health is a duty… Otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.
Buddha

Plan your day so you can work SMART instead of working harder. Make sure to make time for meditation and self care to calm your senses. This will allow you to focus better so you can be more productive. This way, you will have more time to spend on the things you want and love.

Indulge Your Curiosity

We all have been curious as children but we learned to suppress this instinct as adults. Being curious doesn’t mean just asking questions. It is a desire to find the answers to your questions that makes it worthwhile. If you’re curious about a certain place, travel there and experience it yourself. There is no better way to indulge your curiosity than to be immersed in another environment. So don’t hesitate to take that road trip with your friends.

Be curious. Read Widely. Try new things. What people call intelligenve just boils down to curiosity.
Aaron Swartz

A more affordable way to satisfy your curiosity is by reading books, listening to audiobooks and podcasts and watching videos on topics you are interested about. You can also talk to other people who are experienced or experts at these topics. Taking classes and traveling to experience something new are also good ways to indulge your curiosity and learn something new.

Set Time for Fun and Play

Improving your intellect doesn’t mean boring yourself to sleep with reading or taking classes, even if you’re not up to it. Even at work; you should take breaks to reset your brain. Set time to play board games with your family, friends and colleagues. You can play checkers, scrabble, chess, or even snakes and ladders, just for fun. On your own, you can also challenge yourself with a crossword puzzle or sudoku or a rubik’s cube.

Play is not just about having fun but about taking risks, experimenting, and testing boundaries.
American Academy of Pediatrics

There will be times when you don’t even want to think and just want to have some fun. So go out and enjoy a walk or even a picnic at a nearby park. Visit a museum with your friends or an amusement park. Indulge in a hobby or find one. Do something creative like taking photos, making videos, drawing or scribble quotes, work on a coloring book. It’s not wasting your time when you’re refreshing your mind.

Reflect on Your Learnings

A journal is a great way to do some reflection. At the end of the day, or whenever you feel like it; write down your experiences, how they made you feel, how you can apply it to your future experiences. It doesn’t have to be too detailed. The main goal is to be able to review your experiences and inspect it for helpful tidbits that will benefit you, or other people around you. A gratitude journal is one way to encourage a more positive mindset.

Without reflection, we go blindly on our way, creating more unintended consequences, and failing to achieve anything useful.
Margaret J. Wheatley

There are always some good learnings to be had even in unpleasant circumstances. By journaling, you will learn how to look at things from a different perspective. It means you can look at things objectively, without your personal biases stepping in. This will help you choose the thoughts that will benefit you the most. In the long term; it will also help you control your self and your reactions; so you can keep calm and respond to the situation in the best way possible.

Maintaining intellectual wellness means always being open to learning new things. There are many ways to constantly keep learning. So don’t hold back from asking a question and trying to find the answers. It will definitely help you improve your social wellness and help you discover a whole new world of possibilities to move forward in life.

Feature Image: Original Photo by Monstera from Pexels.

Mar

2022

Are You Occupationally Well?

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Would you score high in occupational wellness? Occupational wellness is an important part of everyone’s life as we spend most of our time at work during the day. If you imagine the perfect job; what would it look like? The traditional work setup has now evolved. Even if you still work the usual 9-5; some of us don’t have to go to the office as working from home has become more popular.

Occupational wellness is being able to achieve a balance between work and leisure with the freedom to make choices that promote personal satisfaction and career growth.

While workers are experiencing the pros and cons of working from home and at the office; a balance between life and work is still a major factor for workers to feel satisfied in their jobs, as The 2021 Global Employee Survey reports.

If you’ve ever wondered if you are doing well in your job; here are some questions to ask yourself to assess your occupational wellness.

Do you have a clear vision of your career goals?
Are you satisfied with your current job?
Are you passionate about your work?
Do you have or have you tried a sideline aside from your day job?
Have you tried putting up a business?
Do you feel excited to go to work?
Are you able to pay your monthly bills with your current income?
Are you open to learning about other income opportunities?
Do you feel heard and supported in your workplace?
Do you feel creative and productive when you are working?

These questions can help you assess your current job satisfaction. If you’ve answered more YES’ than No’s, then you can rate yourself as having good occupational wellness. However, it still best to consult with a professional, coach or mentor for any specific issues you have about your job or career goals.

Don’t be pushed by your problems. Be led by your dreams.
– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Remember that your job should be in line with the rest of the 8 dimensions of wellness. If one of these is lacking then it will affect the other dimensions. Your job for example, directly affects your financial wellness. Also, if you do feel that you are looking for something more than what your current job or career path is offering; then maybe it is time to take the leap and embark on a new path. After all, it is never too late to start doing something new again as long as you are dedicated and SMART about it.

Featured Image: Original Photo by Jason Strull on Unsplash.