Each individual carries a unique combination of needs shaping their wellbeing. Whatever stage you're at, there's a next small step worth taking.
Some people seem to have a greater sense of wellbeing than others. Why? And what can the rest of us learn from them?
"Wellbeing" is increasingly used as a synonym for "happiness", but the two aren't quite the same. Wellbeing covers physical and psychological health, the quality of relationships between yourself and others, your sense of purpose and meaning, and even your financial situation.
Research has identified several things that meaningfully impact your wellbeing — and the good news is they're all within reach. These include practising gratitude, adopting a solution-focused mindset, and strengthening your sense of belonging and purpose.
Gratitude is probably the single biggest thing you could learn to positively impact your wellbeing. It's been shown to improve mood, immunity and sleep. Being thankful changes our brain chemistry — and it's both addictive and infectious.
Focusing on solutions rather than problems is critical to maintaining our wellbeing. Challenges are part of life, but shifting gear to think creatively about how to resolve them is empowering. It also gives you a framework to move through the situation quickly and effectively.
Fundamental to your sense of wellbeing is your support system: family, friends and those you share a sense of purpose with. Belonging to a group makes us feel valued, welcome, accepted and secure. Finding people who share your values dramatically increases your sense of wellbeing.
"Your wellbeing is a journey, and we'd love to be part of it."
Become an Affiliate
by Donné Newbury
The end of year and holidays can be a challenging time for many of us, which makes it more important to maintain or even boost all five aspects of your wellbeing in order to set yourself up for a good start to the New Year.
Social Wellbeing
We are inherently social beings and our connections with friends and family play a key role in our wellbeing. Be selective about who you spend your time with and make time for those you enjoy being with and whose friendship and love boost you. Be especially compassionate and inclusive of those who are alone or find this time of year very difficult.
Emotional Wellbeing
As we reflect on the year and our achievements, being truly grateful for the successes and learnings is a great way of boosting our emotional wellbeing. Also reflecting on what feeds your soul and energises you is important to prioritising activities in the year ahead.
Physical Wellbeing
The season of excess food and drink can disrupt our weight, sleep and mood; so committing to a schedule and moderation through the holidays helps maintain a feeling of control and positivity. Bathe your brain in exercise-inducing endorphins, rest and look after yourself.
Financial Wellbeing
Instead of wildly spending, why not create a budget and stick to it? This should include budgets for food & drinks, gifts and entertainment. Get creative with personalised home-made gifts like baking some delicious cookies or refurbishing a tired old picture frame and make meaningful gifts that bring people joy and are kind to our environment.
Spiritual Wellbeing
Regardless of your beliefs and/or religion, the passing of a year is often a deeply spiritual time to consider your goals, values and purpose in life. Make time for reflection and spiritual connection with the things that provide this deeper fulfilment.
Practising proactive wellbeing is like anything that’s good for you – the more you do it the easier it becomes and the better you get at it. Be purposeful about making your wellbeing your priority and reap the benefits well into the new year.
Wellbeing Australia wishes you a wonderful holiday period full of love, joy and everything that makes you feel fulfilled and happy!


We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past and present. We recognise the First Peoples of this Nation and their ongoing cultural and spiritual connections to the lands, waters, seas, skies and communities.
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