Personal wellbeing goes beyond merely being free from disease or illness; it encompasses a complex blend of physical, mental, emotional, and social health factors. It is closely tied to feelings of happiness and overall life satisfaction.  In essence, personal wellbeing can be defined as your own assessment of how you feel about yourself and your life. In this article. we explore our pursuit of happiness, the nuances surrounding it, anxiety, and whether our quest for happiness is genuinely worthwhile.

PERSONAL WELLBEING AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS

In the colourful tapestry of life, the quest for wellbeing and happiness is deeply personal, an ongoing journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. Individuals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and all walks of life will navigate the intricate balance between satisfaction and fulfillment. Fulfillment being the achievement of something desired, promised, or predicted and satisfaction the accomplishment of our wishes, expectations, or needs. 

happiness IS SUBJECTIVE

Happiness, an elusive state of being, is often subjective and varies from person to person. When we reflect on our lives, it is our own personal happiness that resonates from within.  Moments of joy, laughter shared with loved ones, and the satisfaction brought by personal accomplishments create a unique balance that shapes our own personal wellbeing. For some, contentment is the simple pleasures in life such as a coffee with a friend, a bracing walk by the sea, some quiet time reading or just being present in the moment. 

Relationships play their part

In the realm of personal wellbeing, the pursuit of happiness is the significance of relationships. The bonds we cultivate with family, friends, and romantic partners are at the very centre of our lives. The joy of shared experiences, the support during challenging times, and the understanding that we are not alone contribute immeasurably to our sense of happiness. Research highlights the positive impact of strong social ties on our mental wellbeing, emphasising the need for meaningful connections in our lives.  Whether it's the close knit of family bonds, the camaraderie of friendships, or the intimacy of romantic connections, the quality of relationships often plays a pivotal role in shaping our overall satisfaction.

PROFESSIONAL FULFILLMENT

Career choices and professional pursuits also contribute significantly to people's perceived satisfaction with life. Those who find fulfillment in their work, feeling a sense of purpose and accomplishment, tend to report higher levels of happiness. Conversely, those trapped in unfulfilling or stressful jobs may experience heightened levels of anxiety and a diminished sense of overall life satisfaction. Striking a balance between professional success and personal wellbeing becomes a key factor in the pursuit of a satisfying life.

Navigating anxiety

Information overload and constant connectivity has become a way of life for most of us.  Sadly, as a result of this,  anxiety has become an ever more prevalent. The pressures of modern life, coupled with societal expectations, can contribute to heightened stress levels. It's essential to explore coping mechanisms, from mindfulness practices to seeking professional support, to better understand and manage anxiety. The pursuit of happiness often involves cultivating resilience and developing strategies to navigate the challenges life presents.

Are our pursuits of happiness worthwhile?

Through life's experiences, we often find ousrselves questioning the worthiness of our pursuits. Whether it's investing time in personal hobbies, dedicating energy to meaningful relationships, or striving for professional success, people grapple with the question of whether their efforts are worthwhile.  Are we investing time in activities that truly bring us joy and fulfillment?  Self-discovery can lead to personal growth. It involves aligning our actions with our core values, shedding pursuits that no longer serve us, and embracing new experiences that resonate with our authentic selves

Personal wellbeing and our pursuit of happiness is a lived experience

The pursuit of happiness is a dynamic and multifaceted journey and a lived experience.  It's about finding joy in the everyday, cherishing relationships, forging a fulfilling career path, and bravely facing the storms within. As we navigate this deeply personal journey, let's celebrate the uniqueness of our stories, acknowledging that the pursuit of wellbeing is not a destination but a journey that deserves to be embraced, celebrated, and lived to the fullest.

References and further reading

https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/how-to-be-happier/