Embracing Plenitude Over Happiness: A New Approach to Well-being for 2026

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January 2, 2026

The Shift in Understanding Well-being

As we embark on a new year, there is a noticeable shift in how we perceive well-being. This change emphasizes a more holistic, preventive, and personalized approach to wellness. Mental health now shares equal importance with physical health, prompting a reevaluation of work-life balance and emotional sustainability.

The Rise of Plenitude

In the face of emotional exhaustion and heightened awareness of mental health, the traditional pursuit of happiness as a goal is losing traction. Instead, plenitude has emerged as a more relevant and sustainable concept.

Key Actions for Sustaining Plenitude

  1. Active Gratitude: This involves acknowledging progress, appreciating what one already has, and placing shortcomings in perspective. This practice can help alleviate feelings of lack, which often fuel anxiety and emotional exhaustion.
  2. Contribution: In an increasingly disconnected social landscape, engaging in even small, consistent actions can foster a sense of belonging and restore purpose.

Rethinking Success and Well-being Expectations

Typically, the start of a new year encourages individuals to reassess inherited expectations about success and well-being. In this process, plenitude is gaining prominence as a means to navigate a year marked by evident emotional and social challenges.

Expert Insight

“Happiness can be fleeting, but plenitude is a conscious decision and a way of life. This shift in focus is shaping how many people approach the new year,” explains Bolio.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What is the shift in understanding well-being? The new approach to well-being emphasizes a more holistic, preventive, and personalized perspective that equally values mental and physical health, work-life balance, and emotional sustainability.
  • What is plenitude? Plenitude is a more sustainable and relevant concept than the traditional pursuit of happiness. It involves active gratitude, recognizing progress and appreciating what one already has, as well as contributing to a sense of belonging and purpose.
  • Why is plenitude gaining prominence? As emotional exhaustion and mental health awareness increase, plenitude offers a more sustainable approach to navigating life’s challenges.
  • What does Bolio say about this shift? According to Bolio, happiness is fleeting, while plenitude is a conscious decision and way of life. This shift in focus is reshaping how many people approach the new year.