The 5 Factors of Wellbeing

by Shabbir Mellick.

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Introduction:

My life took a drastic turn in January 2019 when I was involved in a car accident that left me injured both physically and emotionally. Dealing with the aftermath of the accident, along with another personal loss, brought a wave of negative emotions crashing over me. However, I found solace and strength through the 5 factors of wellbeing. These principles became my guiding force as I embarked on a journey of healing and rebuilding. In this blog post, I will share my personal experience and explain how each factor provided me with comfort and happiness during challenging times.

Connect: Talking and Listening:

During my recovery, I realised the importance of nurturing relationships with loved ones. Talking and listening became my lifeline. Whether it was pouring my heart out to a trusted friend or lending a sympathetic ear to someone else, these connections provided me with a sense of support and purpose. Through active listening, I not only felt heard, but I also learned valuable insights from the experiences of others. The power of human connection cannot be underestimated, and it played a pivotal role in my healing process.

Be Active: Moving My Mood:

As my physical injuries healed, I discovered the transformative power of being active. Engaging in a physical activity that suited my fitness level became a source of joy and accomplishment. It allowed me to release pent-up emotions, channel my energy positively, and improve my overall well-being. Whether it was going for a walk, practicing stretching, or even dancing in my living room, moving my body became a gateway to happiness and a way to overcome the emotional turmoil I was experiencing.

Take Notice: Finding Joy in the Simple Things:

When I was going through a challenging time, I learned that it is important to pay attention to the little things that make us happy. Taking the time to be mindful in our daily activities can be a fantastic way to find comfort. I enjoyed the simple pleasure of sipping a warm cup of tea and finding peace in the beauty and calming sounds of nature. By living in the present moment and being grateful for the small wonders around me, I was able to change my focus from negative thoughts to feelings of gratitude. This made an enormous difference in how I felt mentally and emotionally.

Keep Learning: Rediscovering Purpose:

To reignite my sense of purpose, I embarked on a journey of continuous learning. I tried new activities and rediscovered old passions that had been put on hold. I immersed myself in books, seeking knowledge and inspiration. Each new experience and every piece of information I absorbed reignited a spark within me. Learning became a catalyst for personal growth, providing me with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

Give: Sharing and Showing Interest in Others:

Lastly, I discovered the immense power of giving. Despite my own struggles, I found solace in doing something kind for others. Whether it was a small act of kindness for a friend or volunteering for a cause, giving became a source of fulfilment and joy. It reminded me that I had the ability to make a positive impact on the lives of others, even during my own challenges.

Conclusion:

My journey of healing and recovery taught me a valuable lesson: our mental well-being is closely tied to our physical health. The 5 factors of wellbeing—connecting with others, staying active, being present, learning new things, and helping others—became my guiding principles during challenging times. By incorporating these practices into my daily life, I not only managed to overcome challenges but also experienced personal growth. I strongly encourage anyone who is facing their own challenges to embrace these factors, as they have the potential to bring more stability and calmness into their lives.