Achieving A Holistic Life

For a long time now due to my youngest’s NS (military conscription) and his rigorous NUS (university) requirements, we did not have the opportunity to bond as much. So this December, we are able to make a 3-week European travel covering Belgium, Eastern France and Northern Italy.

We spoke much on the train rides, over coffee and beer breaks, and while waiting for Madam doing her shopping. We went on to an important conversation, which is his life after NUS. We are just half-way through.

The below summary was the culminations of our our conversation thus far on life. I hope it is useful for you too.

Achieving A Holistic Life

Living a holistic life is often a dream. Many want it but few achieve it. We are unsure if we have achieved much; but I know we both know that we are doing whatever we can even at the time of writing this. We came to a general conclusion that life encompasses four essential components: Financial, Cognitive, Physical, and Mental well-beings.

1. Financial Well-being

Financial Well-being refers to the stability and security of your financial situation. It involves managing your money effectively, saving for the future, and being prepared for unexpected expenses.

How to Achieve Financial Well-being:

• Budgeting:?Create a monthly budget to track income and expenses.
• Saving:?Aim to save at least 20% of your income.
• Investing:?Build a portfolio of diversified assets to grow your wealth.
• Debt Management:?Pay off high-interest debts as quickly as possible.
• Emergency Fund:?Maintain an emergency fund covering 3-6 months of living expenses.

2. Cognitive Well-being

Cognitive Well-being involves learning, unlearning and relearning. As we grow, we need to upgrade our mental abilities to think, conceptualise and understand the happenings of the world. It is crucial for our overall brain function and quality of life.

How to Achieve Cognitive Well-being:

• Cognitive Exercises:?Engage in activities like puzzles, reading, and learning new knowledge and skills.
• Healthy Diet:?Eat foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins.
• Sleep:?Aim for 7 hours of quality sleep each night.
• Social Interaction:?Be socially active to stimulate your brain.

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3. Physical Well-being

Physical well-being is about maintaining a healthy body through exercise, nutrition, and preventive care.

How to Achieve Physical Well-being:

• Exercise:?Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
• Nutrition:?Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Sleep:?Aim for 7 hours of sleep per night.
• Hydration:?Drink .plenty of water throughout the day.
• Preventive Care:?Regular check-ups and screenings to detect potential health issues early.

4. Mental Well-being

Mental Well-being?encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act.

How to Achieve Mental Well-being:

• Stress Management:?Give yourself sufficient break in between study/work and life. Regulate the volume and intensity deliberately. Practice relaxation techniques like mindfulness, meditation and deep breathing.
• Healthy Relationships:?Cultivate and maintain supportive and positive relationships.
• Hobbies:?Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation.
• Celebrate all successes and wins: We all need to have some forms of self and societal affirmation. So, go for regular celebration of your success and win to feel good.

By focusing on these four key components of life, you stand to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. Remember, each aspect is inter-connected and improving one can positively impact the others. Start small, set achievable goals, and gradually build habits that support your overall well-being.