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Dominique Gummelt Dominique Gummelt October 28, 2020

Made to Thrive

This year we certainly have been getting acquainted with very new circumstances, many of which have been incredibly challenging and painful for a lot of people around the world. It has been a time of change and it has been a time to truly take a much a deeper look at our lives.  

Fact is, while we may not be able to control the circumstances, we have a choice each day to take responsibility of how we respond to them. This is a key mindset element that can significantly impact our overall wellbeing.  

I believe God’s plan for our lives entails optimizing every aspect of it — despite circumstances. This is the power of thriving! (Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines thriving as: “to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances.”) Every single one of us can make the choice today to live differently, to choose differently, to behave differently and, suddenly, when we take that responsibility, our wellbeing has the opportunity to soar.  

There are six different areas, personal dimensions of wellbeing, that I believe compose the ultimate formula for a thriving recipe for a happier, healthier and more meaningful life: 
 

  1. Made to Matter - Imagine creating a world where everyday events are woven into a much greater story and life’s decisions are guided by the wisdom of its Designer. That is the power of meaning.
  • Grow closer — Clarify your beliefs and put them into action; engage in spiritual support and practices.  
  • Stay true — Strive to uphold strong moral and ethical principles in your daily life.  

 

  1. Made to Move - Imagine creating a world where daily activity builds strength, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness, fueled by a plant-based diet and regular rejuvenating rest. That is the power motion. 

  • Stay active — Optimize your cardiovascular, strength and flexibility fitness; sleep 7 to 9 hours a night.
  • Eat well — Eat a healthy and balanced plant-based diet; drink enough water, limit sugary beverages.  

 

  1. Made to Explore - Imagine creating a world where problems become opportunities to explore new ideas and solutions that make life work better for everyone. That is the power of innovation.

  • Explore more — Challenge your mind with new intellectual and creative pursuits. 
  • Think ahead — Anticipate problems and opportunities; initiate appropriate courses of action.  

 

  1. Made to Belong - Imagine creating a world where conversations are encouraged, differences are embraced and help is freely offered, turning strangers into neighbors. That is the power of inclusion.  

  • Serve others — Contribute to the wellbeing of others and your community.  
  • Be inclusive — Connect positively, respectfully and meaningfully with others and the environment.

 

  1. Made to Unwind - Imagine creating a world where worry and stress are reduced through practices that increase self-awareness, gratitude, relaxation and resilience. That is the power of calm.

  • Tune in — Understand and accept your feelings and those of others.  
  • Remain positive — Be optimistic in your approach to life and its challenges.  

 

  1. Made to Dream - Imagine creating a world where possibilities arise from the discovery and alignment of personal strengths, core values, acquired skills and life calling. That is the power of purpose.  

  • Find Your Calling — Pursue a life path that aligns with your values, strengths and purpose.  
  • Develop Skills — Seek opportunities to develop essential transferable skills.  

 

Dominique Gummelt, PhD, CPT, CWP
Director of University Wellness | Andrews University
Wellness Expert and Media Spokesperson | Verv Inc.