It's worth pondering right?

And in a growing connected world with endless expectation, being always on, seeing people around you succeed, or have that six pack you've always wanted, there is a 'toxic' side to wellness. Let me explain. And please, argue the toss with me if you like.

Be the best version of yourself - really?

"Be the best version of yourself?" Whilst in theory, catchphrases like this seem like admirable goals, but I challenge it to the extent of, well, what really is the best version of yourself? How do you judge that? Do we even know? It's entirely subjective. But lets say we humour the idea for a moment. Ok so you do indeed reach that echelon, what next? Surely it's not realistic to think you can be the best version of yourself, day in, day out. In reality, it would read better if it sounded more like, "Try to do your best, and when you do, celebrate that, and when you don't, don't beat yourself up, you're only human," or something to that effect.

Notwithstanding the comparison syndrome, where no matter how well we are doing, we lean into comparing ourselves with the next person. We are all physiologically different, have various natural strengths, body types, mentalities, and backgrounds, so it's impossible to actually compare ourselves to anyone. We don't see it that way though as humans and it's easy to fall into that trap time and time again.

So what is the answer?

Look, I don't think there is a simple answer but in our work at Nimbus Co I keep coming back to simplicity. Let's start there.

Keeping things simple gives us the best chance of a) getting on top of things, b) having a plan that is achievable and realistic and c) allows us maintain overtime.

Let's break it down into three areas:

• Physical (are you exercising, eating well etc.)
• Mental (are you practising self worth, gratitude, breathwork etc.)
• And emotional (how are your relationships, who is in your support network, friends group etc.)

Now, if you are ticking all three of these areas consistently and on top of them all, great. Or, maybe you're hitting two out of the three, or maybe even just one out of three - that's ok.

Keeping things simple

In a very fundamental way, it's giving you a structure to check in on, to score yourself and if upon review you feel an area is lacking, well, it gives you the chance to address it. Six months down the line, things might be different and you might have to make new changes to get back to three out of three, and so on.

Quick tip

Write these three areas down on a piece of paper. Stick it to the fridge, and see how you go with a visual aid to help you check in more regularly.

#wellbeing #healthyliving #emotional #mentalhealth hashtag#wellness

Words by: Neil O'Sullivan, co-founder NIMBUS CO