Wellness is one of those things that feels easy to identify - when we think of wellness, we often imagine people working out, curated pictures of nutritious meals, and stunning photos of wellness products and services. But is that what wellness really looks like? And does wellness only look these certain ways?

So many of us are uncertain about wellness. We have concepts, ideas, and assumptions - often given to us by others - but defining wellness for ourselves is unfamiliar. The truth is that wellness has no set definition and no defining images. Wellness belongs uniquely to each of us. We can authentically envision and design our own wellness; we own our wellness paths.

How can we reset our understanding of wellness - away from the definitions of others - to design our own unique, personal vision of wellness?

• First, identify your values. Core values are those fundamental beliefs you have - the guiding principles that govern how you behave, interact with others, and understand the world around you. Maybe your values include honesty, responsibility and integrity; or perhaps you value connection, learning and adventure. Many of us value health, family, and belonging. No matter what it is that you deeply value, this is your starting point for your vision of wellness.

• Now, draw on your strengths. Once you identify your values, consider your strengths - those personal characteristics you possess that support living within your values. Do you have certain knowledge or skills? Are there particular hobbies or projects that you are good at? What are the things about yourself that give you pride in who you are? Your strengths, when combined with your values, create the foundation for building wellness.

• Then, uncover motivation. With your values and strengths identified, let’s look at what drives you - what is motivating you to build wellness. Is there a level of fitness you are seeking? Is there a desire to learn more about stress management or build more time for rest into your schedule? Are you dreaming of a different career path, a new hobby, or perhaps pursuing something that makes you happy? When we uncover our motivators and reasons to pursue a goal or dream, we have something to leverage and propel us forward.

• Finally, voice the important. You now have the foundation - your values and strengths; you know what is motivating you to build greater wellness in your life. Now we need a direction. By voicing what is most important right now, we breathe life into a vision of wellness. We see where we want to go and the importance that direction has in our life right now. We give voice to what we want, hope and dream.

Putting all of these pieces together, you have created a vision for wellness that is uniquely yours and is grounded in who you are. Your values and strengths provide you the foundation, your motivators will propel you forward, and by voicing what is most important to you right now - your vision for wellness comes to life. Take a moment to celebrate this incredible step on your wellness path.