Communications strategist Jessica Payne uses her WELL AP credential in her professional and personal life

After creating ad campaigns about mental health, communications strategist Jessica Payne became interested in WELL when learning about the Mind concept. The idea that a WELL space can improve mental health through programs and designs resonated with Jessica. Since becoming a WELL AP, Jessica’s credential has served as a tool to increase her understanding of the impact our spaces and communities have on our health.

1. What’s something about the WELL AP—or the WELL movement in general—that isn’t often discussed, but you think deserves more attention?

How a WELL built environment can provide one with a sense of control after having had to give up so much over the last few years. The positive impact of feeling looked after, that our mental health and physical health are being taken seriously. The emotional impact of being told through a WELL certification, “I see you, I hear you.”

2. What’s something about the WELL AP program that you wish you’d known when you were first starting out?

Just how rigorous the test would be. I knew it was going to be a challenge given my background in communications wasn’t directly related to the built environment. I knew I’d have a lot to learn from a technical standpoint. But I knew the Mind concept would keep me motivated – and it did! The opportunity to learn new facts and tidbits around nutrition and health also helped keep me going.

3. For people on the fence about WELL AP, what would you say to them?

If the mission of WELL speaks to you personally and you have the opportunity to get certified, do it! You’ll learn so much. It will open your mind to other technical areas and how they can directly impact and amplify the work you’re doing. Even if you don’t work in a directly related profession, the WELL AP network will introduce you to others who have a deep connection with WELL’s mission and provide opportunities for you to contribute your “secret sauce” to the movement.

4. What led you to pursue the WELL AP credential? What personal/professional significance does the WELL AP hold for you?

The Mind concept (of WELL v1) led me to pursue the WELL AP credential, as I’ve worked for many years creating public awareness campaigns for mental health. I had just discovered biophilic design as well and was personally drawn to it. The idea that a WELL built environment can positively impact our mental health – through purposeful design, employee programs and other features – I was hooked. One word: fractals.

5. What does well-being mean to you? How do you incorporate well-being into your life and routine?

Well-being is holistic and incorporates our physical health and mental health. When they are in step, I can show up fully for myself and others. I’m not perfect, and I’ve gotten better at knowing when I need to take a break. I try to exercise regularly and eat healthy (although I have my late-night cravings!) and I meditate every morning and build breaks into my daily life, like walks and playing with my cat, to help spark joy and stay present. My friends are a key part of my well-being, and I do my best to nurture my circle, respecting my space and theirs. I’m working on being better at this.

6. Is there a specific WELL concept, feature or set of features that have really resonated with you and that you’ve incorporated into your own life?

As I mentioned before, the Mind concept really spoke to me from jump. It’s what got me interested in pursuing the WELL AP credential in the first place.

7. From a health and well-being perspective, what are some of the most inspiring or exciting trends you’re seeing in the Communications industry?

The popularity of the hybrid/flex/remote model as a permanent fixture of work going forward is an exciting development. Similarly, it’s been fantastic seeing sidewalk and street parking areas converted into outdoor dining or green spaces during lockdown remain and, in some cases, completely transform neighborhoods. The popularity of biophilic design in the commercial sector – office buildings and hospitals, specifically – have revitalized typically sterile and uninspiring environments with design that acknowledges that these spaces are intended for human use and should therefore be designed with human beings in mind.

8. Any tips for people studying for their WELL AP exam?

The study bundle with practice tests was key for me because there was so much to memorize. Looking back, I would have ordered the hard copy version of the study guide so I could write notes in it, highlight, etc. I’m old school. But the digital version was handy, too.

9. Tell us about your experience working as a WELL AP during the COVID-19 pandemic. What are you most looking forward to post-pandemic?

I’m still finding my way as a WELL AP, but so far, I’ve found it tremendously rewarding to meet the larger network. Serving on the IWBI Health Equity Advisory is an honor and deeply rewarding. I’ve met designers, doctors and sustainability experts, just to name a few, from around the world. We were all brought together by a shared interest. I’ve even made some close personal friends directly through my WELL AP journey. I’m already integrating insights and trends coming out of these conversations into my communications strategies.

One of the first questions I get when folks see my LinkedIn is, “What’s a WELL AP?” It’s the perfect icebreaker, because who doesn’t want to talk about our connection to place and how our environments can impact our health? I find it enriches just about every conversation I have, both personally and professionally. I think there’s a little WELL AP in all of us.

Post-pandemic, I look forward to being out in the world again. I look forward to travel and reunions, hugs and shared stories over good food in a lovely environment. Community and conviviality that only a connection to place can bring.

Get started on your WELL AP journey by learning more about the program and what it has to offer.