Well-being at Columbia

Last reviewed: 1/18/2023

At Columbia, well-being is an active and continuous practice, informed by ability, capacity, and environment. Well-being engages internal efficacy, promotes inclusivity and cultural humility, fosters a sense of belonging, and creates individual and organizational value.  

In all areas of the University, well-being is a priority that supports the advancement of knowledge and learning at the highest level and exists in a global context.

Well-being Dimensions

wellbeing visualization

Career Well-being: To pursue fulfillment, connection, and growth in one’s work.  

Emotional Well-being: To identify and manage feelings while responding and adapting effectively.  

Financial Well-being: To access and manage resources in order to feel secure while meeting current and on-going needs.  

Intellectual Well-being: To explore ideas and experiences that stimulate learning and knowledge application.  

Physical Well-being: To engage in a dynamic state of continuous physiological renewal.  

Relational Well-being: To develop positive, supportive, and ongoing connections in interpersonal, community, and organizational spheres.  

Spiritual Well-being: To seek and express meaning, purpose, and “connectedness to the moment, self, others, nature, and the significant or sacred.” 1

Acknowledgments  

Through a broad community-based participatory process, the following groups made material contributions to the development and approval of a University-wide definition of well-being and the associated dimensions. We express our ongoing gratitude for past, present, and future leadership to advance well-being among all members of the Columbia Community.  

  • Live Well | Learn Well, Columbia’s JED Initiative  
  • Columbia Health  
  • Healthier Columbia Network  
  • Wellness Advisory Committee, Office of Work Life  
  • Computer Workstation Ergonomics Working Group, Office of Work Life  
  • General Studies Student Council  
  • Columbia College Student Council 

 


Reference

  1. University of Minnesota - Taking Charge of Your Health and Wellbeing: What is Spirituality?