Sometimes You Need to See It
Two parkrun photos, a new personal best and a growing sense of confidence. I reflect on the progress I can see, the support behind it and the everyday habits helping me feel more comfortable in myself.
Category Mindset
Confidence, motivation, resilience and the mental side of lasting change.
I Only Went Out for 5km Today
A planned 5km became my first 10km since January 2019 — a sign that fitness, confidence and perspective are changing together.
Turning the Weight Clock Back
More than nine years of private weight data has revealed a striking milestone: I’m now passing back through the weight I last crossed on 7 January 2022, turning old numbers into signposts for the road ahead.
The Discipline to Hold Back
After the high of my fastest 5km in two and a half years, the next challenge has been resisting the urge to do too much—and remembering that restraint, strength and recovery are all part of moving forwards.
What Is This Actually Adding?
Taking a break from alcohol has improved my sleep, reduced unnecessary spending and calories, and helped me question an automatic habit.
Don’t Underestimate Yourself
My fastest 5km in two and a half years—and my daughter’s sub-25-minute triumph—showed why you shouldn’t underestimate yourself and why shared goals matter.
The Numbers Behind the Comeback
Numbers give me something tangible to interact with. Whether weight, heart rate, pace or power moves in the direction I expect or not, the data tells me what is working, what isn’t, and what to question next.
164% — And Starting to Believe This Might Actually Work
Four alcohol-free weeks, a cautious return to running, solo gym sessions and a 24-mile bike ride are starting to feel less like isolated wins and more like a new routine—with confidence and mental space growing alongside them.
The Hardest Barrier Isn’t Physical
Sometimes the biggest barrier to getting fitter isn’t physical — it’s the one in your head. Over the last few days I’ve trained in busy gyms, shared a crowded swimming lane and even run surrounded by athletes. Nobody cared what I was doing, and eventually neither did I. I’m learning that exercise doesn’t just build physical fitness; every session builds confidence, resilience and the mental strength to keep showing up.
Small Steps, Long Journey
Over the last few days I’ve found myself thinking less about the finish line and more about the next step. When you’re trying to make a significant change to your health, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the scale of…