Health

The start of a year presents an opportunity for new beginnings: a chance to reflect and set new goals. To do this effectively, we first have to assess where we are. The health, work, play, love model is a good tool for figuring out what needs to change.

We start with health because it is foundational. It is difficult to excel in the other dimensions of life if we do not have our health. Health is about being well in mind, body, and spirit. Yes, physical fitness matters greatly, but we also need to assess our mental and emotional health, as it affects everything else.

How you choose to measure these things and the relative priority you place on these elements is up to you, but a well-designed life is supported by a healthy body, an engaged mind, and some sense of connection to a higher purpose. The assessment is not scientific, just a personal sense that “all is well” or that “something is missing.” Only you can say.

We all know that most resolutions are broken by the end of January, so be smart about your health goals. We are after balance and proportionality, not perfection. Health is fundamental. You cannot expect to excel at work, play or love without it.