Balancing Mental Wellness: Identifying Wants, Needs, and Nice-to-Haves
In the fast-paced tech world we live in, prioritizing mental wellness has become more crucial than ever. Just like in our daily lives, where we distinguish between wants, needs, and nice-to-haves, a similar approach can be applied to our mental well-being. Understanding and prioritizing these aspects can significantly contribute to a healthier and more balanced life. Some may argue that prioritizing mental wellness is a luxury in a world where basic needs like food, shelter, and safety are not always guaranteed. However, this argument overlooks the fact that mental well-being is often intertwined with these basic needs.
For example, individuals experiencing homelessness or living in poverty are more likely to suffer from mental health issues due to the stress and instability they face. Prioritizing mental wellness in these situations can actually help individuals overcome their circumstances and improve their overall quality of life. Additionally, neglecting mental wellness can lead to long-term consequences that further hinder individuals' ability to meet their basic needs, creating a vicious cycle of poverty and mental health struggles.
Without access to proper mental health care and support, individuals may find it difficult to cope with the challenges they face, making it even harder for them to find stable employment or secure housing. This can perpetuate a cycle where their mental health deteriorates further, exacerbating their already precarious situation. By recognizing the connection between mental health and basic needs and providing the necessary resources and support, society can help break this cycle and provide individuals with a chance to improve their lives.
What are our wants?
Our wants often represent desires and aspirations that go beyond basic necessities. They encompass our dreams and goals, whether it's pursuing a fulfilling career, building meaningful relationships, or experiencing personal growth and self-fulfillment. While basic needs are essential for survival and stability, addressing our wants can contribute to our overall well-being and happiness. Recognizing and supporting individuals' wants can help them not only meet their basic needs but also thrive and lead fulfilling lives.
In the context of mental wellness, wants might include activities or experiences that bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose. For some, this could be pursuing a hobby, traveling, or spending quality time with loved ones. Identifying your wants is essential, as they add an extra layer of satisfaction to your life.
Two essential tips are :
1. Self-reflection: Take a moment to reflect on what truly makes you happy and fulfilled. These are likely your wants. Some people may argue that self-reflection and identifying wants can lead to selfishness and a lack of consideration for others' needs and well-being. However, this is not necessarily the case. In fact, understanding your own wants can actually enhance your ability to empathize with others and better meet their needs, as you develop a deeper understanding of your own values and priorities.
2. Setting Boundaries: It's important to recognize that not all wants are immediate necessities. Setting boundaries and understanding when to indulge in these desires can help maintain balance. Please refer to our blog & audio bite on boundaries for more tips on how to effectively set and maintain boundaries in your life.https://www.evexia365.com/post/wellness-power-of-boundaries
What are the needs?
Needs are fundamental requirements for a healthy and stable life. They include things like food, shelter, and clothing, as well as safety, love, and a sense of belonging. Meeting these needs is essential for our well-being and overall happiness. By prioritizing our needs, we can ensure that we are taking care of ourselves and creating a solid foundation for personal growth and fulfillment.
In the sphere of mental wellness, these needs are the building blocks that provide a strong foundation. Recognizing and prioritizing these needs is crucial for maintaining good mental health. When we neglect our basic needs, such as adequate sleep and proper nutrition, it can have a detrimental effect on our mental well-being.
Similarly, neglecting our emotional needs, such as seeking support from loved ones or engaging in activities that bring us joy, can lead to feelings of isolation and unhappiness. By acknowledging and prioritizing these needs, we can cultivate a strong support system and develop healthy coping mechanisms, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
3 tips on needs :
1. Basic Needs: Ensure that your basic needs, such as proper nutrition, adequate sleep, finances and regular exercise, are consistently met. These form the foundation of mental well-being in the modern society . When our basic needs are neglected, it becomes challenging to maintain a positive mindset and manage stress effectively. Without proper nutrition, our energy levels may plummet, affecting our ability to focus and stay motivated in order to have food stable financial status is a must . Similarly, a lack of sleep can lead to irritability and decreased cognitive function. Regular exercise not only improves physical health but also boosts mood by releasing endorphins. By prioritizing these basic needs, we can lay a solid foundation for our mental well-being and enhance our overall quality of life.
2. Emotional Support: Human connection is a fundamental need. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with friends and family to have a reliable support system during challenging times. This support system can provide a sense of belonging and help us navigate through difficult situations. Having emotional support not only allows us to share our joys and sorrows but also encourages open communication and empathy. It is crucial to surround ourselves with individuals who genuinely care about our well-being and can offer valuable guidance. By fostering these meaningful connections, we can create a safe space where we feel understood, validated, and supported, ultimately promoting positive mental health and resilience.
3. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness activities like meditation, taichi, dance or yoga into your routine. These practices can help manage stress and promote a more balanced mental state. Additionally, they can increase self-awareness and enhance our ability to focus on the present moment. By regularly engaging in mindfulness practices, we can cultivate a sense of calm and serenity, allowing us to better navigate challenges and setbacks in life. Moreover, these activities encourage us to prioritize self-care and our mental well-being, leading to improved overall health and resilience.
What are nice-to-haves?
Nice-to-haves are the extras , the elements that enhance our lives but are not essential for survival. While these may not be immediate priorities, incorporating them into your life can bring added joy and fulfillment. They can include things like hobbies, travel, and personal goals.
Nice-to-haves allow us to indulge in our passions and explore new experiences. Engaging in hobbies such as painting, playing a musical instrument, or travelling around the world can provide a sense of relaxation and creative expression. My personal favorite as bonus is travel to different places as it exposes us to diverse cultures and expands our understanding of the world. Pursuing personal goals, whether it's completing a marathon or writing a novel, gives us a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. While nice-to-haves may not be essential, they contribute to our overall well-being and make life more enjoyable.
Essential of nice to have:
1. Hobbies and Passions: Engaging in activities that bring you joy, even if they aren't directly tied to your work or responsibilities, can be incredibly enriching. It allows us to explore our creativity and escape from the pressures of everyday life. Whether it's painting, playing a musical instrument, or gardening, hobbies and passions provide an outlet for self-expression and can be a source of relaxation and stress relief. They remind us of the importance of finding joy in the little things and help us maintain a healthy work-life balance.
2. Learning and Growth: Continuously seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth can be a nice-to-have that adds depth and satisfaction to your life. It allows you to expand your knowledge and skills and opens doors to new possibilities and opportunities. Whether it's enrolling in a cooking class, attending workshops, or pursuing higher education, the process of learning and growing keeps your mind engaged and helps you stay intellectually stimulated. It also boosts your confidence and self-esteem as you achieve milestones and accomplish personal goals. Ultimately, embracing a mindset of lifelong learning contributes to a fulfilling and enriching life.
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Prioritizing mental wellness: They remind us of the importance of finding joy in the little things and help us maintain a healthy work-life balance, ultimately contributing to our overall well-being.
1. Assess your current state. Begin by evaluating your mental well-being. Identify areas that are thriving, those that need attention, and aspects that could be considered luxuries. Consider how your mental well-being impacts your work-life balance and overall well-being.
2. Create a wellness plan. Develop a comprehensive plan that addresses your needs first. Ensure that you have a solid foundation before incorporating wants and nice-to-haves. Reflect on potential changes or adjustments that could be made to enhance your mental well-being and create a more harmonious work-life balance.
3. Establish Boundaries: Clearly define when and how you will engage in your wants and nice-to-haves. This prevents them from becoming stressors or distractions. By setting clear boundaries, you can create a healthy balance between work and personal life, ensuring that your wants and nice-to-haves do not interfere with your overall well-being. This may involve scheduling specific times for leisure activities or setting limits on the amount of time spent on work-related tasks outside of regular working hours. By establishing these boundaries, you can maintain a sense of control and prevent these activities from becoming potential stressors or distractions in your life.
4. Regular Check-Ins: Periodically reassess your mental wellness plan. Adjustments may be necessary as your circumstances and priorities evolve. Regular check-ins are crucial for maintaining a healthy mental wellness plan. As life changes, it's important to reassess your priorities and make adjustments accordingly. This could involve revisiting your schedule and boundaries to ensure they are still effective in promoting your overall well-being. By staying proactive and adaptable, you can continue to nurture your mental health and make the necessary changes to support your evolving circumstances.
By recognizing and prioritizing wants, needs, and nice-to-haves, you can develop a holistic approach to mental wellness. This not only allows you to build a strong foundation but also fosters a life filled with purpose, joy, and balance. Remember, a mindful and intentional approach to your mental well-being is a continuous journey, and embracing it with patience and self-compassion can lead to a more fulfilling and healthier life.
This proactive approach will help you maintain a balanced and fulfilling life, even as your circumstances continue to change. Embracing this mindset of growth and adaptability will ultimately lead to a more resilient and thriving mental state.
Ciao till next week