For my personal project I wanted educate others and myself on the psychological aspect of our own wellbeing as well as spread awareness about the topic. I hoped that through my project, people would become more aware of the factors that makeup your wellbeing and how to influence your own wellbeing positively. Even through extensive research and practice, I learned that it is important to remember that wellbeing is individual and partly genetic. So effectively, my goal for this project was to compose and build a website to educate and spread awareness of the psychological science behind wellbeing.
My website will walk you through the factors, misconceptions, expectations, unrealistic reference points, and the benefits of journaling. It will also give guidance on gratitude and help you with the recognition of your personal signature strengths. It teaches you ways to recognize your unreasonable reference points and expectations.
I have three main tips for the upcoming ninth graders:
I know probably everyone else said this as well, but start early! Don't procrastinate, even though it seems like you have a lot of time to do the project, you have so many school assignments on top of that; it will pile up. Even though the project does not have a direct effect on your grades, it is an excellent learning experience.
Message your advisor at the slightest confusion or uncertainty. Have regular meetings with them and have them proof read and correct your work. Your advisor is a lifesaver, guiding and assisting you through this process.
My final tip is to not pick a topic or subject that is generally easy for you or what you are most comfortable with. Stepping outside of your comfort zone leads to new discoveries and fresh perspectives. Choosing something interesting and exciting will make it seem less like a school project and more like a voluntary project. Remember though, to choose a topic that deeply interests you as you will be working on this for the majority of your time in 9th grade.
Best of luck!