Spotlights
Barb Latham
Barb Latham is no stranger to new things – starting it off last October when she became the Department of Movement Science Office Coordinator at Grand Valley in a new area and new home. Recently, she was also proud to become a grandmother again. With all of these changes, she decided it was time to start a new era in her life, and start to “take control of [her] health.”
After starting at Grand Valley, Barb immediately took advantage of Priority Health’s online portal and was connected with a health coach. Her health coach has helped her to have more confidence when it comes to living healthfully.
For motivation, Barb turns to her health coach, but she’s also learned how to motivate herself. She sets realistic goals and is mindful of what she puts in front of herself. Keeping healthy things in view, like an apple on her desk, even if she doesn’t eat if right away, helps her to stay mindful and keep focused on her goals. Barb also is mindful of her health related financial costs and utilized the Priority Health Cost Estimator tool.
“At a certain age, you need to take different health precautions, and you can’t always go with the cheapest option, but the Cost Estimator helps you compare options based on cost and reviews.”
She has also learned that it is important to choose to forgive yourself when you do slip up, because we always do in the beginning. “That slip up is not defining of you,” she says, “It’s a moment.” In forgiving herself and moving on from her previous habits, she is able to accomplish more because she is thinking forward – mindful of each moment she is in and how to make this new moment her best.
Learn more about Priority Rewards and Health Coaching programs available to GVSU faculty and staff.
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