The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Optentia research unit hosted a two-day workshop that focused on equipping professionals with tools to help individuals craft purposeful, meaningful lives.

The workshop, titled “The Holistic Life Crafting Model: A practitioner’s guide to meaning-making in every domain”, took place on 13 and 14 November at Mongena Private Game Reserve.

Led by Dr Bryan Dik (Colorado State University, USA), Dr Bradley Wright (University of Connecticut, USA), and Dr Llewellyn van Zyl (Psynalytics, Netherlands), the workshop targeted psychologists, managers, and coaches looking to enhance their ability to foster personal growth and well-being.

The Holistic Life Crafting Model: A proactive approach

At the heart of the workshop was the Holistic Life Crafting Model, a proactive method that empowers individuals to align their lives with core values, strengths and passions. Unlike passive approaches to personal development, life crafting enables individuals to actively shape their environments and actions, ensuring they reflect their deepest aspirations.

The model encompasses seven key domains: cognitive, environmental, interest, relational, skill, task and goal crafting. By engaging with these areas, individuals can create more purposeful, fulfilling lives.

Workshop goals and practical application

Participants left with both theoretical insights and practical tools for applying life crafting in real-world contexts. They learned how to assess crafting habits, develop personalised interventions, and adapt strategies for coaching, group settings, and organisational environments. By the end of the workshop, attendees were ready to guide others in designing more meaningful lives, supporting both personal and professional growth.

The benefits of holistic life crafting

The model offers numerous benefits, including increased motivation, resilience and well-being. For organisations, it fosters higher employee engagement, job satisfaction, and performance, while also reducing burnout and encouraging innovation. Life crafting helps build positive organisational cultures by empowering individuals to take control of their careers and personal development.

As one participant, Hardus van Pletzen, commented, "This process provides a guiding vehicle and time to reflect ... a worthwhile investment in well-being." Watch the video to learn more about this transformative experience.

Workshop presenters with attendees.