Davis, Sarah2017-01-262017-01-262016-12https://hdl.handle.net/11299/183683University of Minnesota Final Project. Fall 2016. Degree: Master of Liberal Studies. Advisors: Michelle Iwen and Virajita Singh. 1 computer file (PDF)In America, the concept of wellness can be observed and interpreted in various ways, producing a “disconnect” between intentions and commitment to action. This thesis uses a Whole Systems Thinking Approach to explore the reasons behind the disconnect by deconstructing individual wellness potential as a system. Design thinking will then be used to reconstruct parts of that system in order to reduce or avoid the disconnect. Systems thinking helps us understand the connections between parts in a system and how they work together. Design thinking creates an opportunity to embrace self-awareness and aids in selecting elements for the feedback loops needed to strengthen our potential for wellness.enwellness behaviorwellness potentialwellness limitationswhole system thinkingdesign thinkingwellness interpretationfeedback loopswellness disconnectwellness elementsThesis or Dissertation