The Wellness Wheel - A Self-Reflection Tool for a More Balanced Life
The Wellness Wheel - A Self-Reflection Tool for a More Balanced Life
In 2000, psychologists Jane Myers, Thomas Sweeney, and Melvin Witmer developed The Wheel of Wellness to shift the focus from a disease-centered model to one of holistic well-being (Myers et al., 2000). Each spoke of the wheel represents a different area of life that, ideally, deserves regular attention. While there have been many iterations of the Wellness Wheel since its creation, they all serve the same purpose- helping individuals gain a deeper understanding of their overall well-being.
A Slice of Life Pie
The Wellness Wheel is a visual framework that highlights the interconnected aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of balance across multiple dimensions. It helps you identify your strengths and areas for growth, allowing you to create a more fulfilling and sustainable lifestyle.
How to Use The Wellness Wheel
To assess your overall well-being, rank your level of satisfaction in each area of the Wellness Wheel on a scale from 1 to 10:
1 = You’re struggling or feel unfulfilled in this area.
10 = You feel completely satisfied, with little to no improvement needed.
Once you've completed your rankings, take a step back and observe the balance of your wheel.
Which areas feel strong and thriving?
Which ones might need more attention?
This tool provides a holistic, big-picture view of your life and can reveal some unexpected insights- you may even be surprised by the results!
I personally love this tool because it highlights areas for growth while celebrating where you're already thriving. It’s a simple yet powerful way to check in with yourself, gain clarity, and create a more intentional, well-balanced life.
The Wellness Wheel: A Tool for Balance
The Wellness Wheel is made up of eight key dimensions, each playing a unique role in overall well-being. Together, they contribute to a more balanced, fulfilling life.
As you explore each dimension, take a moment to reflect on your own life:
How well are these areas aligned for you?
Which ones feel strong and thriving?
Where could you use more support or focus?
This self-awareness is a powerful first step toward greater balance, well-being, and personal growth.
The 8 Dimensions of Wellness
Physical Wellness 💪
Engaging in regular movement and exercise
Nourishing the body with balanced nutrition
Prioritizing sleep, hydration, and preventive healthcare
Social Wellness 🤝
Building meaningful relationships and a strong support system
Practicing effective communication and active listening
Setting boundaries and maintaining a sense of belonging
Spiritual Wellness ✝️
Finding purpose, values, and meaning in life
Engaging in reflection, meditation, or religious practices
Living in alignment with personal beliefs and morals
Occupational Wellness 🏢
Finding fulfillment and balance in work or volunteering
Pursuing passions and professional growth
Managing work stress and maintaining a work-life balance
Intellectual Wellness 📚
Continuously learning and expanding knowledge
Engaging in creative and stimulating activities and hobbies
Keeping an open mind and challenging perspectives
Financial Wellness 💰
Managing finances wisely and planning for the future
Creating a budget and reducing financial stress
Aligning spending with values and goals
Emotional Wellness 💖
Understanding and managing emotions effectively
Practicing self-care, stress management, and resilience
Seeking support when needed and cultivating self-compassion
Environmental Wellness 🏡
Creating a clean, organized, and calming living space
Setting up spaces that support healthy habits (kitchen for nutritious meals, bedroom for quality sleep)
Reducing clutter to support mental clarity and relaxation
Now it’s Your Turn!
To try this exercise at home, you can find a printable version here.
Key Takeaways:
Small Steps, Big Impact
Small, consistent changes in each area can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling life
Focus on One Area at a Time
Start by prioritizing one area of wellness- progress, not perfection!
Reflect & Take Action
Which area of wellness do you want to improve first?
Journaling & Reflection Prompts
Which area of your wellness feels the strongest, and which area do you feel needs the most attention?
How does your wellness in one area impact other areas of your life?
