What are the 5 facets of social well-being?

Am I happy in my relationship? Am I content with my physical fitness and abilities? Do I feel financially stable? What do my friends and colleagues think of me? These are some questions that cross the minds of many — if not all — of us. They are critical components of well-being in psychology. But how does one ensure they are satisfied with the answers? It comes down to adult social well-being.

Social wellness activities are the things we do every day to take care of ourselves. This includes our lifestyle, emotional and physical choices. Our social well-being is crucial in helping develop authentic relationships. It also fosters meaningful interactions and respect for oneself and others.

Many habits and activities contribute to our social well-being. They can be narrowed down into a few categories, or facets of our overall well-being.

What are the 5 fundamentals of well-being?

Social well-being starts from within. How we navigate how these five facets contributes to our larger health story. Social wellness goal examples can include but aren’t limited to:

Social. When you think “social,” think relationships. People need a meaningful support system and social connectedness to thrive. It’s a key piece to the puzzle of our overall happiness and health. For example, staying connected with your loved ones or ensuring you have a good work/life balance can be fulfilling and give you more satisfaction in the long haul.

Financial. Living paycheck to paycheck isn’t uncommon. Financial strain can greatly impact social well-being, so it’s important to plan ahead and take advantage of different activities that can help your long-term financial forecast look bright. Consider setting financial goals for one year, five years or even 20 years down the road. Stick to a budget when possible. It may seem tedious, but many financial experts say setting a budget and sticking to it is an important way to ensure your financial security.

Environmental. A beautiful sunset. Twinkling lights and holiday decorations. The smell of cut grass and a warm summer breeze. There are a lot of environmental elements that give us all the feels, which can contribute to our overall social wellness. Connect with nature or whatever environment you find yourself in. Take a walk along a scenic path, unplug from technology and relax in your favorite room, or find ways to improve your environment at home and in your neighborhood.

Physical. Physical activity is not only critical for positive physical health, but it’s also essential for social well-being and mental health. Get up and move to keep your social wellness in check. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans notes that “a total amount of at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, consistently reduces the risk of many chronic diseases and other adverse health outcomes.”

Intellectual. Keeping your mind sharp and alert is an influential strategy in maintaining good social wellness. Give your brain a workout through problem-solving. You can do this by reading a book, doing a crossword puzzle, or playing a board game with family and friends.