Description: The article describes principles for optimal sub-tasking of a project goal. Two experiments each one comparing different approaches are presented. A summary of principles for optimal goal setting presents seven key points: i)levels of outcome goals should be recognizable and lack ambiguity; ii) each subtask should be atomic, i.e. not be capable of being broken up into further subtasks, iii) the subtasks should be uniform, lacking ambiguity, so that any new trainee could master it without the need for further guidance; iv) each subtask should be attainable in a reasonable amount of time; v) mentor feedback should be provided during the initial stages of learning or training; vi) upon mastery of each subtask trainees should be encouraged to maximize their overall score; vii) after mastery of individual subtasks, while attempting to maximize scores, trainees should be provided with a mixture of easy, intermediate, and difficult tasks.

Description: This session will discuss: • What is social insurance and advantages of financing LTSS that way • Design decision points for an LTSS program • Existing examples of programs in the US and Abroad • Challenges and differences in pricing state-based LTSS financial reform.

Description: The arrival of ASU 2018-12 (a.k.a Targeted Improvements to the Accounting for Long-Duration Contracts or GAAP Targeted Improvements) presents insurers with augmented financial reporting risk across all areas of the valuation process. Naturally, the internal control frameworks that serve to mitigate these risks must evolve and expand. Valuation actuaries should view this transformative event as an opportunity to take an active role in developing new and improved controls that are both effective and sustainable.

Description: The author discusses the importance of branding yourself and provides ideas to assist you in that process.

Description: 1993 SOA Meeting, Quebec. This session was geared towards goal setting for actuaries who manage functional areas, departments, or divisions. Topics included: the reasons why goal setting and achievement are often ineffective, the key success factors in setting and achieving goals, and a proven methodology for setting and achieving goals.

Description: Profile of an actuary in a non-traditional actuarial role: focusing on medical cost and analysis, both retrospective and prospective.

Description: This story won the Predictive Analytics and Futurism Section prize for most novel prediction forming the basis for the narrative in the 2019 Actuarial Speculative Fiction contest.

Description: This article addresses dealing with distractions, avoiding habits like multi-tasking, and providing guidance on how to reach a state of "flow" to concentrate on deep work.

Description: Read this Chairperson's Corner for the March 2024 issue of International News to learn more about planned meetings and upcoming events.

Description: The author is a recent FSA (2018). As a career changer from academia with no actuarial exposure prior to attempting the first exam at almost 30, the author offers a compelling set of insights gained through his CERA and FSA qualification processes. The advice presented not only covers exam tips helpful for candidates at all levels, but also provides perspective for those who are considering the rewarding career path of being an actuary.