Approximate reading time: 4 minutes

Uplifts, such as achievements, positive interactions with colleagues, recognition, and support from management, act as a counterbalance to the daily hassles we face at work, ranging from minor annoyances like paperwork to significant stressors such as conflicts with colleagues or overwhelming workloads. In the digital age, “Cyber hassles”, especially those related to social media, have emerged as new stressors. Research has shown that modern communication methods can add to our everyday stressors and impact our well-being. Results include physical effects like loss of sleep due to increased physiological arousal from ruminating about online interactions (van der Schuur, Baumgartner, & Sumter, 2018). Furthermore, the frequency of daily hassles has been identified as a better predictor of both physical and psychological health than major life events; studies highlight daily hassles, including digital interactions, that are more strongly associated with physical health problems (DeLongis, Coyne, Dakof, Folkman, & Lazarus, 1982). Additionally, daily minor hassles, especially interpersonal conflicts, often lead to negative and distressed mood states (Bolger, DeLongis, Kessler, & Schilling, 1989). Interestingly, the sequence in which we reflect on uplifts and hassles matters; focusing on positive experiences before negative ones can provide psychological benefits, helping maintain a more balanced mood (Maybery et al., 2002). This suggests that emphasising positive interactions and support can influence how we perceive and handle daily stressors, including those encountered in digital spaces.

What Uplifts and Hassles affect our well-being? Research findings

Uplifts

• Physical Activity: Engaging in daily physical activity, including low-intensity and cardiovascular fitness activities, promotes mental and physical well-being (Epstein et al., 2001).
• Positive Youth Development: Being motivated by challenges and supported by caring adults energizes active engagement in development, contributing to a sense of accomplishment and well-being (Larson, 2006).
• Health Behaviour Changes: Participating in online health makeover programs can lead to positive changes in health behaviours, such as abstaining from smoking, which enhance personal health and satisfaction (An et al., 2013).
• Co-Creative Policymaking: Involvement in co-creative urban policy making allows individuals to contribute to community development, enhances their skills and knowledge, and brings a sense of achievement. This is particularly applicable in the housing domain (Lorenz, 2023).
• Supportive Adult-Youth Relationships: Benefiting from adult-youth relationships based on discipline, tradition, and understanding of youths’ worlds contributes to emotional uplift and a sense of belonging (Starr, 2003).
• Social Connections: Building and maintaining strong social connections with peers enhances emotional well-being and provides a sense of belonging (Ong et al., 2022).
• Engagement in Creative Activities: Participating in creative activities like art, music, and writing fosters self-expression and mental relaxation, offering a break from daily stressors (Larson, 2006).
• Access to Technology and Information: Utilising technology for learning, communication, and access to a wide range of information contributes to personal growth and development (Starr, 2003).
• Community Involvement: Being involved in community service or volunteer work instills a sense of purpose and contributes to societal well-being (Lorenz, 2023).
• Environmental Engagement: Engaging with nature and outdoor activities promotes physical health and mental well-being, offering a break from the urban hustle (Wang, Orleans, & Gortmaker, 2012).