Anne Ahiers
Parks and Recreation, Como Zoo and Conservatory
Tell us about the pillar of wellbeing you are thriving in and what you are doing:
Financial and Social. Not that I ever feel like I’m THRIVING financially, but I do feel like I’ve made concerted efforts in this area to make better decisions and plan for my future, and I’ve tried to bring my coworkers along as well. I set up a meeting with our Voya Financial Advisor, Mark. At the meeting, we got all of our coworkers and union member questions answered about 401Ks. The goal is that no one leaves free retirement money on the table.
How has the Healthy Saint Paul program improved your quality of life, work-life balance, or job satisfaction?
Every day I open the Virgin Pulse app to read my daily cards and check stats. I really appreciated the addition of the 20-Day Triple Tracker award- I’m in there every day to make sure I’m getting that 7k steps/15 active minutes/15 workout minutes at least 20 days/month to get my additional reward. $5 doesn’t sound like much, but it adds up over time!
What do you aspire to improve in your wellbeing over the next year?
I want to continue to focus on my financial literacy. I want to learn more about my Voya and PERA accounts- log into them regularly to monitor my retirement savings, and learn more to make sure I’m saving enough for my future. At open enrollment last year, I talked to Securian about how much Life Insurance I need for my family’s needs, and I increased my amount as a result. There’s still so much to learn in this year’s Open Enrollment too!
Ashley O'Brien
Office of Technology & Communications
What do you aspire to improve in your wellbeing over the next year?
I aspire to improve my emotional well being next year. I love working with my wellness coach and am considering some therapy to heal in parallel to pushing forward.
Tell us about the pillar of wellbeing you are thriving in and what you are doing.
I’m focused on my career this year. I’ve been working harder than ever to communicate with leadership in my department; to align my focus with what the team needs. I’ve been channeling my energy into networking and saying yes to opportunities to share my ideas and success.
How has the Healthy Saint Paul program improved your quality of life, work life balance, or job satisfaction?
I’ve been able to prioritize my needs during my workday which helps me carve out the time to take care of myself. With all I’m juggling at home and at work, taking care of my body and soul could easily be forgotten.