Maria Prairie, Vice President of Horizon-the occupational health division of Medisys Health Group, spoke with us about the highs and lows of her experience as a busy traveling executive. In this interview we get a glimpse of Maria’s passions, challenges, and more.
In many Canadian companies, a huge amount of stress and responsibility rests on the shoulders of the top executive talent. For that reason, senior leaders are becoming increasingly busy in their day to day lives and often displaced from their routine. So, despite best efforts, the hectic existence of a corporate executive can lead to personal sacrifices in diet and fitness. The good news is – it’s possible to have it all!
Q: WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS WHEN IT COMES TO TRAVELLING FOR WORK?
A: I spend a lot of my time travelling across the country for work. It gives me the opportunity to connect with the broader team, understand their daily realities, and work with them to find ways to better serve our clients in-clinic and on client sites. This helps drive home why I do what I do every day – to make a positive, personal and enduring impact on the health and quality of life of our clients. It’s also a great opportunity to visit beautiful places around Canada, spend social time with our teams and clients, and of course indulge in the delicacies of each city!
Now, for the downside of travel. For me, the real difficulty is staying consistent with my health regimen. Sometimes it feels almost impossible because travelling interrupts my sleep and overall daily routine. And on top of that, my days on the road typically start early and end late, making it easier to over indulge.
Q: WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE WAYS TO KEEP FIT WHEN AT HOME?
A: I was once an avid runner but got sidelined by a chronic ankle injury. After a few years off, I started cycling which has turned into something I love. It’s a social activity that I enjoy with my friends and family. Unfortunately, I haven’t been as active as I once was. When I rode my bike after taking the winter off I realized the significant change that had happened by not maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I understood my obstacles and what needed to change but was unsure of how that change could come about. While I love to cycle it does have a downside; you need a good bike, lots of time to get in a good workout and it’s tough to maintain the same level of activity in the winter. This meant I needed to find a routine that I could maintain all year and while travelling for work.
Q: HOW HAVE YOU TRIED TO RECOMMIT TO YOUR HEALTHY HABITS?
A: I knew I needed to recommit myself to healthy habits and realized I needed some help. The most difficult part for me was prioritizing myself and any fitness routine when managing a national team across different time zones. The main obstacle I was facing was how to accomplish a fitness regimen with the sometimes limited food options and in some cases the lack of time or equipment while travelling. I have now committed to blocking space in my schedule and asking for support. With all the amazing health and fitness professionals we have within the organization I knew I could reach out for some help. I know in the long run this will be better for my mental and physical health, in hopes of making me a more productive team member!
Fortunately, Robert Cahill and Andrea Stokes at Definitions (wholly owned by Horizon OHS) in St. Johns, have really helped guide me in getting back on track of my health goals!
