10 - Me, Myself and I

Summary

Thriving at the intrapersonal level is about discovering a secure sense of self: of knowing who one is, but retaining the fluidity to respond and adapt as the world unfolds itself. Mental health challenges have become a major concern across the world. Many factors may be at work (exam stress, relationships, economic circumstances, poor sleep, diet) and these may also include separation from nature and the outdoors. Looking to the future, increasing automation of work and changes to the nature of careers poses further challenges as work has often conferred a sense of identity and purpose. Likewise, perpetual digital connection (while bringing benefits) curtails the space for silence and reflection, and risks an overload of information and choices. As with mental health, young people need the competencies to actively nurture their own physical health and fitness. Many physical health problems today arise from ignorance. The learning goals associated with this level of thriving are: learning responsibility for personal health, fitness and well-being; and attaining a secure sense of self and identity, with sources of personal nourishment and renewal.