We care deeply for fathers, fathers-in-law, partners, brothers, brothers-in-law, sons, nephews, cousins, close friends, neighbors and colleagues.
In honor of Movember and men’s wellbeing around the globe, here are eight telling signs based on our Asset Health Wellness Wheel that the men in our lives are not only doing well, but flourishing.
He takes care of himself, guilt-free. His physical health is a leading priority and has become part of his routine. He respects his body with quality, consistent sleep, balanced nutrition and regular movement. From preventing illness to supporting optimal function and even peace in daily life, we all know the benefits of bolstering our physical health.
He expresses emotional intelligence. He can identify, process and communicate a range of emotions without feeling shame. He also addresses his anxieties and doesn’t avoid feelings. The relationships we have with both ourselves and others are central to the lives we lead.
He has a stable sense of self-worth. He knows his skills, knowledge or creativity. He’s not chasing validation from work, partners or pals; he’s just doing the activities that regularly bring him genuine peace and joy. Whether it’s house projects, personal development, career-centered or pure passion, he is open to learning. The more we learn, the better equipped we are to solve complex problems and manage challenges along the way.
He is respectful within his environment. He is attentive to the people and places he values most, such as keeping a shared home clean, safe and organized. He is also mindful of the greenspace surrounding him, making personal choices that benefit the environment, like reducing plastic use, because nature has the power to nurture.
He practices healthy communication. He uses tactics like active listening, handles conflict constructively and respects personal boundaries in relationships. He has authentic, supportive relationships with friends who can talk frankly about life’s challenges and joys. The benefits of positive relationships are profound, including a boost in longevity, self-esteem, coping skills, career success and more.
He maintains financial breathing room. He views money as a tool rather than stress. Freedom from financial stress is an intentional way of living that supports overall wellbeing.
He strives for work-life harmony. He maintains boundaries with work and balances his time with quality memories away from work. Research has shown that leisure and play contribute to greater life satisfaction, reduced stress, successful aging, stronger relationships and even personal growth in the professional setting. It’s a reciprocal benefit: time away from work helps us perform better at work.
He has defined his meaning and purpose. He sets goals (big or small) that are in-step with his values, help guide his everyday choices and promote long-term motivation. Studies have shown that by understanding and cultivating meaning and purpose in our daily lives, it positively affects levels of happiness, along with mental, physical, emotional and financial wellbeing.
A balance of attention within these equally important dimensions of wellbeing supports overall thriving, no matter his age or current journey in life. If the guy you have in mind is hitting these targets in some capacity, chances are good he is doing just fine. He might even be living his best life. And it’s deeply caring that you were checking in.
Sources
“Your Wellness Wheel: Why Balance Is Key to a Healthy Lifestyle,” motivatehealth.com, Dec. 28, 2018.