From the Slopes to the Sea

Actuaries are often defined by their analytical precision and technical expertise. But what happens when an actuary deliberately steps away from the numbers to embrace the unpredictability of nature? I recently sat down with Ray Shi, FSA, to learn how his pursuit of adventure has transformed not only his personal life but also his professional performance.

The key to his transformation? A refreshingly straightforward approach: “I wanted to find more support points in life rather than putting all my focus on work,” he says.

TURNING POINTS

After completing his actuarial exams in 2025, Ray found himself at a crossroads. With more time available, he made a conscious decision to develop new interests. His first choice? Skiing.

“It’s about freedom,” Ray explains. “After skiing (and snowboarding), you can see the vast mountains and white snow — it’s being close to nature. It’s relaxing.”

But his first day on the slopes was anything but graceful.”My posture was completely wrong — I could only crouch,” Ray laughs, recalling the experience. “I kept losing control and ending up in the forest. I’d have to climb my way back out. It was embarrassing, but it was real.”

That authenticity, that willingness to be a beginner again, became central to Ray’s approach to life outside the office. And the results? Unexpected.

I’ve written before about how interests support work-life balance. For example, “Have Chocolate, Will Travel” examines travel and food experiences and their role in balancing creativity with the rigor that often comes with our profession.

“After I started relaxing more in life, my work efficiency actually improved,” Ray says. “I know it sounds counterintuitive — you’d think spending time away from work would mean less productivity. But by meeting people from different backgrounds and gaining new perspectives through these activities, I bring fresh thinking back to my professional work. It’s been transformative.”

NEW HORIZONS

When Ray relocated to Bermuda in 2025, he discovered scuba diving. Like skiing, diving quickly became more than an interest — it became an anchor.

“You need routines in life,” Ray reflects. “These activities create structure, but also freedom. They give you something to look forward to beyond the next deadline or project.”

THE LESSON

Ray’s story, for me, offers a powerful reminder to actuarial professionals navigating demanding careers—cultivating diverse passions isn’t a luxury — it’s integral to a sustainable career.

“By connecting with different people through these hobbies, I get new perspectives,” Ray emphasizes. “You start to see problems differently. You approach challenges with fresh eyes. And honestly, you just become more balanced as a person.”

For actuaries grinding through exams or managing different priorities at work, Ray’s approach may provide valuable insight: a potential key to sustained excellence isn’t just working harder or longer, it’s living fuller.

For professionals looking to branch out and pursue their interests, a balanced approach may be a path to follow. “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket,” Ray suggests. “Work is important, but it shouldn’t be your only identity. Find your support points, whether it’s skiing, diving, traveling or something else entirely. These aren’t distractions from your career—they’re fuel for it.”

YOUR TURN

Ray’s journey started with a simple decision to try something new after completing his exams. He chose skiing, knowing he’d probably fall, and he did, repeatedly. But those tumbles led to transformation.

What will your first step be? Maybe it’s signing up for that pottery class you’ve been curious about. Perhaps it’s finally booking that hiking trip, learning to play an instrument or joining a community sports league. The activity itself matters less than the commitment to finding your own support points outside of work.

Your spreadsheets and models will still be there when you return. But you might just approach them with the efficiency Ray discovered, the fresh perspective he gained, or the peace he found standing in a Barcelona cathedral on one of his journeys.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment. In my experience, there isn’t one. Ray’s first day skiing was far from perfect, but it was the beginning of something essential. Your awkward first steps in a new pursuit might be exactly what your career and your life need right now.

Statements of fact and opinions expressed herein are those of the individual authors and are not necessarily those of the Society of Actuaries or the respective authors’ employers.

Copyright © 2026 by the Society of Actuaries, Chicago, Illinois.