What does well being look like to you? Is it good physical health, mental health, or emotional health—or all of the above? What gives you a sense of well being? Is it a place, a person, something tangible like art, or something intangible like the smell of spring? When was the last time you paid attention to your well being, really thought about it? Do you feel a sense of well being right now?

I don’t. But that’s because I’m still in the throes of deadline. Even after I send the pages to my printer, I’ll still feel tense and worked up for a couple days. I know I’m not the only one experiencing stress these days. We all are. So how do we cope? 

That’s why I asked those questions at the top of this column. Maybe it’s a good idea to sit down and make a list of the things that bring us happiness and contentment. I know what I’d put at the top of my list: a glass of wine. Just kidding—although I definitely will enjoy a glass after putting this issue to bed!

Everyone’s list will be different, of course, because we all have unique ways of experiencing pleasure and fulfillment. The point is are we allowing enough time and space in our busy lives to welcome our well being? If you’re like me, probably not. There’s always something to do to fill our time, and then before we know it, another day has gone forever.

What if we schedule a few of our favorite things into our routines? For example, I love hiking. I feel a sense of connection both to myself and to the world around me when I’m in the woods. Stress just melts away out in nature. So I’m putting a hike on my calendar right now. It’s just what I need.

What do you need to help you feel a sense of peace and contentment? Whatever it is, put it on your schedule. Give yourself some “me” time. You need it and you deserve it. Be well!