Resolutions

I'm not really a "goal" type of person.... you know... the kind that writes down everything then has a check box next to it to mark when they have accomplished something. That's just too much work for me. Not in my DNA structure to do that. NOT that I'm saying that I can't accomplish things, I just don't have a desire to set formal, written goals, because, let's be honest, I don't always get everything done that I want to, so why would I want to look at a list of things I know I should be doing instead of whatever I am doing at the time? No need to mess with something so nearly perfect (how is it I'm starting to sound like my brothers??) However, this year, I may make the attempt at writing down some goals. I know... don't die of shock. But in order to structure and limit my goals :), I was reading an article at work about the 6 dimensions of wellness (since I design health and wellness programs) and thought that would be good to have 6 goals. And if I can accomplish them all in a timely fashion... well then I'll be perfectly balanced!

Social The social dimension encourages contributing to one's environment and community. It emphasizes the interdependence between others and nature. Social wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to contribute to the common welfare of our community than to think only of ourselves.
• It is better to live in harmony with others and our environment than to live in conflict with them.

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. Occupational wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to choose a career which is consistent with our personal values interests and beliefs than to select one that is unrewarding to us.
• It is better to develop functional, transferable skills through structured involvement opportunities than to remain inactive and uninvolved.

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. Spiritual wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to ponder the meaning of life for ourselves and to be tolerant of the beliefs of others than to close our minds and become intolerant.
• It is better to live each day in a way that is consistent with our values and beliefs than to do otherwise and feel untrue to ourselves.

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. Physical wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to consume foods and beverages that enhance good health rather than those which impair it.
• It is better to be physically fit than out of shape.

Intellectual The intellectual dimension recognizes one's creative, stimulating mental activities. A well person expands their knowledge and skills while discovering the potential for sharing their gifts with others. As you develop your intellectual curiosity, you'll actively strive to expand and challenge your mind with creative endeavors. Intellectual wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to stretch and challenge our minds with intellectual and creative pursuits than to become self-satisfied and unproductive.
• It is better to identify potential problems and choose appropriate courses of action based on available information than to wait, worry and contend with major concerns later.

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 oneself 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. The well person maintains satisfying relationships with others. Awareness of, and accepting a wide range of feelings in yourself and others, is essential to wellness. Emotional wellness follows these tenets:
• It is better to be aware of and accept our feelings than to deny them.
• It is better to be optimistic in our approach to life than pessimistic.