Being "holistic" or "in balance" is something that you need to work at.
It's really easy to get caught up in the day-to-day things in life and lose track of the big picture. We are so busy doing "stuff" we can easily get out of balance and find that we aren't paying attention to the important things that really matter. Over time this can lead to real problems if left unresolved.
Each of us has a "wheel of life" that we use to make our way through the world. Your wheel is composed of 6 key parts: career, relationships, finances, health, mind and leisure. Here is a quick quiz designed to help you see how balanced your life is.
When answering the questions "yes" or "no" consider how your life has been over the past month or so rather than just yesterday as that might not be typical for you.
Career
- I work no more than 40 hours a week
- I don't have unreasonable demands at work
- I generally feel relaxed at work
- My work environment is pleasant
- My work is stimulating and enjoyable
- My work gives me a sense of purpose
- I take regular breaks during the working day
- I can forget about my job as soon as I leave
- I like the people I work with
- My works suits my interests and personality
Relationships
- I enjoy spending time with people
- I have a few, intimate friends whom I trust
- I have a group of good, reliable friends
- I am generally supportive of other people
- My family is a great source of support
- I am comfortable around most people
- I am open and honest with people
- I am willing to initiate friendships
- I prefer hobbies that involve people
- In a crisis, I have people to support me
Finances
- I have enough money to live on
- I am responsible with my money
- I feel financially secure
- My debts are under control
- I have a financial plan in place
- Money worries are not a problem for me
- I have money put aside for a crisis
- My money is invested wisely
- I usually pay my bills on time
- I am aware of financial options available
Health
- I make an effort to look after my health
- I exercise at least 3 x 20 mins a week
- I don't smoke
- I only drink alcohol occasionally
- I rarely have caffeine drinks
- I avoid foods high in sugar, salt or fat
- I generally feel healthy and energetic
- I am the correct weight for my height
- I sleep well and wake up refreshed
- I find it easy to relax
Mind
- I read a lot (books, magazines, newspapers)
- Most of my reading is thought provoking
- My job is interesting and stimulating
- I often have interesting discussions
- I prefer thought provoking TV and movies
- I have hobbies which are mentally stimulating
- I am constantly developing my knowledge
- I like to participate, rather than watch
- I often play mentally stimulating games
- I frequently do some form of education course
Leisure
- I have many hobbies and interests
- My leisure time gives me a lot of pleasure
- When I play sport, I am a good loser
- Watching TV occupies a small part of my time
- Much of my leisure involves other people
- I take regular breaks from my usual routine
- During leisure time, I let myself go
- My life is full of stimulating activities
- I regularly indulge myself
- I never feel guilty during my leisure time
To score the quiz, add up your "yes" answers.
So, how did you do? If there are areas where you scored poorly, review those questions and design a plan for improving that category.
Buy Karen Schmidt's Audio Seminar CD from the Resource Centre:
What It Takes To Engage The Generations At Work