Short and sweet but powerful!

"It takes 64 seconds to retrieve your train of thought after interruption by e-mail, one study shows.

That means if you check your in-box every 5 minutes, you waste 8.5 hours a week. Try intervals of 45 minutes, and turn off the "new e-mail" pop-up alert."

Source: Thomas Jackson, PhD, Loughborough University.

Well that surely gave me food for thought, what about you?

Do it Kenny's way.

When I'm coaching, either in 'walk and talk' sessions, over the phone or in my Business Manager capacity, I'm working with wonderful women in business who need to present ideas in meetings or communicate projects, developments at conferences. Some are just concerned about how they tell people what they do in a simple and clear way.

My philosophy is 'why reinvent the wheel' when others have explained how you do this so well. In this case, a dear friend and colleague Kenny Harris http://www.headsurfing.com/ who is writing here about staying on top of your material– without over-reliance on notes or (hopefully not!) a script......

Hard Work warning. You have to learn it, and you have to rehearse it. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve shared a stage with an ‘internal’ or industry speaker who stumbled over their material, or lost their way. Afterwards, they’ll often say something like “but you make it look easy”. It may look easy, but only because I’ve put the work in (and the same goes for most other professional speakers).

Here’s how you make the hard work a bit easier.

As soon as you know you have to speak, put a few pages in your notebook aside for that event. Start with an outline of what you want to say, do, or achieve.

Over the weeks or days before the event, keep notes in your book whenever an idea comes to you about a point to make, or a story or example to use.

When it comes to writing, start with the opening, and the ending, and learn those off by heart.

Have a full rehearsal during the weekend before. And whenever you have a moment (in the car, on the train, or while grabbing a coffee) have a run through of different parts of the speech in your head. Do a full walk through (yes, on your feet) the day before. And then again during the evening before (and early in the morning of the event too if it’s possible).

Finally, by all means use short notes or bullet points, or a mind map – but don’t get tied to them.

Kenny's an inspirational and entertaining speaker, consultant and workshop leader on creative thinking, innovation, and humour. He works with leading companies, public organisations and small businesses to help them get more ideas and better ideas, more of the time. He's the creator of HeadSurfing, a radical programme of creative thinking for individuals, teams and organisations.... and he's a brilliant guy too.

If you can imagine it....

"If you can imagine it, you can achieve it; if you can dream it, you can become it." ~ William Arthur Ward

I working hard on this.

Have a great day.

No camera, how sad.

When I walk I so often have my camera but neither yesterday morning first thing nor on my 'walk and talk' session today, did I have it with me.What a shame.

Yesterday I seemed to come across oodles and oodles of bright pink peony roses and I also met people like Mandy and her daughter Amy, whom I hadn't seen for ages.

Today, no peonies but Knighton woods in Buckhurst Hill was full of wonderful pink and purple rhododendons, yellow water lillies, birdsong and ducks. In the middle of our session, Hannake and I took time out to stop, listen and watch and there were so many different bird sounds.

Now I'm back in the office, the birds are still singing this time in the garden and tomorrow morning, I'm taking the camera.

Just one of the joys of walking.

Monthly review throws up 'gems'

At the start of each month, I take some time to review the one that's just passed. It was working my way though a terrific book called 'Simple Abundance' that inspired me with the idea and no matter how often I read and re-read the book, the gems of wisdom still appear.

Today as I sat in the sun, this one re-surfaced.

"There is an old Indian proverb or axiom that says that everyone is a house with four rooms, a physical, a mental, an emotional and a spiritual. Most of us tend to live in one room most of the time, but unless we go into every room every day, even if only to keep it aired, we are not a complete person."

I love this. Does it resonnate with you?

All in a weekend.

What a wonderful weekend I've just been blessed to have. The weather was glorious so we spent every moment we could in the garden. We ate there, entertained, relaxed, did a little gardening and I also continued with my clearing and de-cluttering - a journey I've been on now for about 18 months.

The length of time could lead you to believe that my house is full of clutter. Not true at all but in my experience it all takes time. I've been working on it bit by bit when the time is right and often the clearing out brings up other things that need action.

An example of this is time spent in the attic where you often unearth things you didn't know were still there. In the attic were also a number of things that Ellie had outgrown and records of Al's , some of which could be worth some money. So the de-cluttering stopped as we photographed item and wrote them up to sell on ebay.

More recently I've been clearing books from the office and was able to start selling some of those to colleagues and people new to the coaching field. Over the weekend, I spent many pleasant hours on the sun lounger or in the hammock seat reading and looking through books to work out whether they should be kept or passed on.

Work in the office is in it's early stages. I have a clear image of how I want it to be and a book I found on Feng Shui will definitely help.

Where's your focus?

Mine is, to be honest, all over the place at present. There, I have admitted it and worse still it's been all over the place for a while.

I'm in a place of transformation, not only the crossroads but more like an 8 armed star - rather like driving round the Arc de Triomphe and not sure which road to take to leave it.

I've been saying 'yes' too much. I've been trying out new ideas and there's too much going on so nothing is getting the time it deserves. Ideally I need to take time out but when? Is this something you can identify with?

Last night, when we had the first meeting of my wonderful mastermind group, the need to focus came up over and over again as many of us, all women, juggled with a range of different things in our lives. Focus is what I need. I don't need to lose things for ever, just park them and focus on what is important for now.

This morning, in my Simple Abundance reading, I came across the following - Henry David Thoreau believed "our life is frittered away by detail." Sarah Ban Breathnach disagrees "I think our lives are frittered away by lack of focus"

Meant just for me, I feel and perhaps for you too. Here's to an increase in that focus.

'Have nothing in your homes that you do not know to be useful and believe to be beautiful'

This quote by William Morris lead me to work my way round the house room by room looking at all the accumulated 'stuff' with wider eyes and, apart from a thing or two here and there, I can honestly say that all three of us agreed that what was there was useful and/or beautiful. It was a lovely outcome.

What it did make us look at though was some changes that we could make in the layout of some rooms and pieces of furniture etc that could go in different places.

I have to do the same with the office now. Something tells me that's not going to be so straight forward.

Should have read the whole piece...

Oops, I was so taken with the first part that only after blogging, did I finish it and of course that's powerful too so please read on.

"When we navigate through our business and our lives, we really don't realize how much we are reacting to our unconscious perceptions of what is going on around us. When we do realize that we are reacting to something, we start looking for agreement to justify how we are feeling... and you know what? We find it!! What do you want to find in your life? Love? Success? Health? What are your circumstances suggesting is your reality? Suggestions are nothing more than unconscious projections from your mind making you believe that everything is happening to you. Guess what it's not true!!
You have a choice and with that choice you can create anything you desire.

Activate that choice everyday and let yourself bask it the peace that is all around you!! "

Thanks again David - www.DavidNeagle.com

A very powerful realisation and lesson

Hi there,

I'm a fan of David Neagle - www.DavidNeagle.com and continuously learn from his insights and experience. Reading his latest newsletter this morning, I was struck by the following:-

"I just returned from a long over due trip to Maui, a very peaceful and serene place... so much so that from the moment you step off the plane, you are pulled into a peaceful state. Here's what important to "see": it's the people of Maui that are feeling at peace, adding to the peace of the environment itself. Yes, the environment is powerful also... but what's even more potent is the apparent decision of the population to be in harmony... to receive Spirit in each moment.
Here's an example of what I mean: I went to several places for dinner while I was there and each time was astounded by how audibly quiet the space was, even though the restaurants were full of people talking. It was like this at every place I went. When I got back to San Diego I took my kids out to dinner at a small but nice restaurant and was in body shock at how loud it was. It was so loud that we could hardly hear each other talk. I thought this was very interesting because the people all "seemed the same", but clearly they were not as their environment was representing the chaos of what they were feeling inside."

I can tell you that I know I am going to be so much more aware of this from now on. It does bring back an experience I had travelling on french railways. In the UK, train travel is noisy wit people on phones, talking loudly , laughing in groups etc and I'm a great lover of peace and quiet. In France, the trains were just as busy but people talked quietly, didn't use phones in the carriage and it all seemed much calmer. Now of course I'm thinking of the reflection of their lives etc.

Would love to hear if this invokes any insight for you and thanks David for bringing this to my attention.

WHAT'S IT ALL ABOUT?

Through my "walk and talk " sessions, I'm often working with business owners and people who want to raise their profiles. They are often required to do this through presenting and I make no apology for borrowing from my husband and business partner Alan Stevens - http://www.mediacoach.co.uk/ for this posting.

When I read Alan's ezine, this really resonated with me and I'm sure it will with you too.

I don't know if you've ever sat through a speech or conference presentation and thought afterwards "What was that about?" If that is your reaction, then the speaker has failed badly. The point that the speaker wishes to make should be crystal clear, and even if you disagree, you should definitely understand their point of view.
When you are delivering a speech, the same rule applies. In order to make a point, you must have a point. It isn't good enough to turn up and tell a few stories. In order to help you prepare, write down your key message in large letters on a piece of A4 paper, and stick it to your wall, or keep it on your desk, as you write your speech notes. Keep checking to make sure that your speech is about your main point.

How do you know when you have a great message in your speech? Apply this test. It should be
Brief
Relevant
Memorable

Best of all, it should pass this test too. Will members of your audience say "I heard a great speech last week - it was about......"


Makes you think, doesn't it?

Have faith in the strength and quality of self.

Today's Simple Abundance quote is "Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of someone else." It came from Judy Garland and it really resonated with me.

As Sarah Ban Breathnach herself says it took her a long time to realise this and she's not been the same person since. She talks about the pressure on us females to be like other women but actually we want to stop this comparison and to work on our own authenticity.

Who are you really? Can you claim to be truthfully yourself? How can you work towards achieving this?

We are all too hard on ourselves, we are striving for perfection but I believe perfection doesn't exist in people so why are we killing ourselves in trying to achieve it? We should only strive to be first-rate versions of ourself. That's what I'm taking from today.

Springs glories

It was truly a pleasure to walk this morning.

The clear skies and sun of the last few days meant a dusting of frost last night that hadn't quite gone as I left the house at 7.10 so I had wisely wrapped up but soon that frost was turning to dew like drops still shining in the spring sun. Again the sky was clear.

As I walk these mornings, I am taken by what progress nature makes on a daily basis with leaves unfurling more and more from their protective bud shells.

Soon the trees will have a cover again blocking many of the sites I can currently enjoy, even more reason to get out now and enjoy them to the full. I've been amazed at the amount of blossom too and this seems to increase every morning.

Of course when the leaf cover is there, it provides the shade under which to lie and contemplate life or under which to picnic and keep cooler in the hot summer days I'm looking forward to.

Looks like today will be another stunning day. If you have the chance to grab even 15 minutes, get out there, stretch your legs and enjoy all that nature is offering to you right in front of your eyes. Breath in the spring air, enjoy the warmth and return to your desk with a spring in your step.

A lunchtime walk will increase your efficiency in the afternoon and ensure that the 'after lunch slump' is banished leaving you to end the day feeling productive and satisfied.

Spring Zing

What beautiful spring weather, don't waste it, get on some comfortable shoes and get out there.

Walking, even if you just take a wander around the block, to the shops or to the park, can make you feel great and boost the day ahead. It can also beat depression, improve your heart, and help you stay in shape and if you walk with a friend there's someone to share the sights with and when you chat as you walk, you'll probably cover even more ground but it won't feel like it.

Even 15 minutes in your local area could jump start your Spring of fun, fitness, and fresh air!

What do you think?

"You should never regret what you've done, only what you haven't done" Quentin Crisp - a great one to really think about.

Time to grow.

Having my first 'Creative Day' and just about to head off to a quiet place to work and plan.

Years ago the way I planned my coaching allowed me to have a 'development week' when I didn't coach and I worked on projects that otherwise would not have seen the light of day. Now the structure is different and after being somewhat frustrated at the inaction, I came up with this concept.

Watch this space, I shall report back later and let you know how I get on. Have a great day, I plan to.

Sunny start to the day

I don't know about you but I like a great start to the day , it's one of the reasons I walk as it grounds me and gets the day in perspective.

My office is at the bottom of the garden so not a long journey and I love the look of my turquoise painted office and how it seems to greet me and beckon me in. At the moment I'm also greeted by a beautiful pot of sunny daffodils. How about that?

Those happy little flowers just can't help but make me smile and they're so pretty. It just makes my morning, every morning and later in the year I plant red geraniums.

How can you brighten up your trip to work or your entrance to the office? How can you brighten up your day?

Have a great day.

Searching for my authentic self

Searching for my authentic self is what February's theme in 'Simple Abundance' is and I'm finding working my way through this month harder than last. I feel I'm not quite getting there but I am persevering and persisting which are two of the qualities I believe you have to have to get to where you want.

All these photos represent aspects of me and my authentic self is an integration of them all and more, the bit I've not quite sussed yet.

At times in the past I've given up too easily. I've not been persistent enough or persevered for as long as I could but not this time, this time is different because I do feel I'm on the right track. However, this journey is hard and there are loads of realisations and tears.

I went for a wonderful treatment on Tuesday, it was in a place I love and the treatment was a 50th birthday pressie. I was waiting to find the right time to have it and I did. Was it wonderful? Well yes and no.

'The Relaxation Place' is a stunning venue and Maxine is a wonderful therapist so all of that was superb. So where the oils, the candles, the ambiance, the warmth etc but while having it I realised just how stressed I was and I got very emotional and spent most of the evening in tears and writing in my journal working through ways that I could work to tackle this stress.

I did enjoy my special present, I do wish there wasn't so much stress in my life or that I was coping with it better but I do believe I was meant to have the experience that I did and it's just another part of this journey.

I will get there and so will you.

Overload, over commitment......

After our Monday morning meeting Alan and I were discussing why we failed to do all we'd committed to when we'd really considered our diary before entering 'to do' dates. " there's always so many other things come in" he replied "and I'm having trouble keeping up"

As yesterday developed, I found myself constantly interrupted by other things that needed done, so much so that yesterday's 'to do' list got buried and I felt totally unsatisfied. I'd done loads but not what I planned. In fact this morning I wrote in my journal that today was going to be an office based, get back on track today. I'm very determined.

Does this resonate with you?

Then as I started my day with checking my email, there was a timely blog posting from my good friend and fellow walker, Marc Leblanc. How often this happens when I need it so here it is for you to.

Take a deep breath

Posted: 09 Feb 2009 07:56 AM CST
As hard as I try to meet the challenges of the month, week, day and moment; I find obligations, commitments, tasks, responsibilities, interruptions and distractions get in the way of doing more of what I want to do and doing the good work I feel called and compelled to do. It is an on-going test of your benchmarks and boundaries that will keep you focused and moving forward in the direction of your dream. Trust the process. But, make sure you have a process, a path, a plan and a philosophy for your business and your life.
Mark LeBlanc http://www.SmallBusinessSuccess.com

Time for me to revisit the process, perhaps this will encourage you to do too.

Smiling feedback

I know we don't always have time to check comments on blogs so I wanted to share this with you. It's from my fellow walker Darlene in Canada.

"I used to live in Germany where it wasn't that common to smile and say "hello" as you passed someone on the street. One morning while I was out walking I smiled and said hello to a woman I was passing. She smiled back, stopped, and asked me if she knew me! We struck up quite conversation. It's a great way to make new friends!"

Care to try it out?

In times of redundancies and job search...

Whether you've recently been made redundant, are looking for a career change or upgrade or you're at the start of your career the three companies which are currently the biggest recruiters are BSkyB, Atkins and Ernst and Young. So have a look and check out the range of jobs.

Thanks to the latest Aurora newsletter for this. Let me know about your successes.

Smiling

For her religious education homework this week my daughter had to write her own 10 commandments.

Her list included -

• always do your best


• be positive


• be kind to all living things


• be honest


• smile often

The "smile often" is one that particularly resonated with me as it's very hard not to respond when someone smiles at you, it makes you feel good and it also takes less muscles to smile that it does to frown.

Often when I'm out walking I smile at everyone I meet, the majority smile back. There's always one who just looks perplexed.....

Sorting through some papers this morning I found this poem and wanted to share it with you.

Smiling

Smiling is infectious

You catch it like the flu

When someone smiled at me today

I started smiling too

I passed around the corner

And someone saw me grin

And when he smiled I realised

I'd passed it onto him

I thought about the smile

And I realised its worth

A single smile like mine

Could travel round the earth

If you feel a smile begin

Don't leave it undetected

Let's start and epidemic quick

And get the world infected.

The poem itself is enough to get you frowning so let it go and pass it on and let's smile through the day, week and year.

Excellent Development

The above charity - http://www.excellentdevelopment.com/is very close to my heart as it's co-founder Simon Madrell was an early coaching client of mine and together we worked on his career move which led to the charity formation.

Simon is someone who truly walks his talk and what he and his team have achieved in the time since they set up is amazing. Specialising in planting trees and building sand dams they have recently built its 200th sand dam since 2002. They are currently working with over 50 communities to bring water and food security to some of the driest areas of rural Kenya. The sand dams transform environments and transform lives.

To find out more visit the website and you may want to purchase one of their Tree Duty bags to use.

Oh yes, and in 2008 they won Charity of the Year at the Charity Awards. Just wonderful.

My Simple Abundance Journey

I'm still on it and haven't missed a day. There's so much to learn and to put into practice and I'm sure I've missed things but I do feel I'm on top of the gratitude element. Even as I walked just after 7.00 this morning I found myself saying thanks so much for all that I have.

For me the 6 threads of Abundant Living are all coming together - the gratitude, simplicity, order, harmony, beauty and joy. They all link and lead one into another. I feel a greater simplicity in life and the continuous de-cluttering is helping that further. Even Ellie had a major de-cluttering session on Sunday. The simplicity makes the order clearer and that brings harmony and all of it allows me to see the beauty and joy more clearly and to feel it too.

On Friday I am having my Friday review and part of that will be reviewing my Simple Abundant journey so far. I am sure I will pick up on other things and learn more. I'm so looking forward to it.

Just got to decide where to go to have it. I want somewhere warm and cosy and away from my office.

Interesting view on free time.

My Lonely Planet weekly email dropped into the inbox this morning bringing just the right equation for these dull, dark and dismal days (if you live in the northern hemisphere that is). It's the time of year that many people hate and all they see stretching ahead is cold and dark. so get a load of this.

Weekends + bank holidays + statutory annual leave = 132 days and as Lonely Planet ask - What could you do with all that time?

Well for me of course I'm already thinking of walking some more of the Camino with my dear friend Teresa. Also can I fit some walking in when I'm in Phoenix in July or is that madness knowing what the temperatures will be like? Anyone reading got any other ideas of where I should go to walk/trek if I am in the USA at that time of the year?

OK, walking may not be your thing but to raise yourself out of the doldrums, take control and just think about what you could do with that time. What about your plans for the weekend? A;so make sure you take your holiday entitlement as so many people don't. You need that break to recharge your batteries.

Come on bring some brightness and sunshine into your life... and thanks Lonely Planet for this.

Simplification

In my reading each morning, it never fails to amaze me how often the message is spot on. Today was no exception so in this time of "credit crunches", struggling economies; downturns etc. read on.

It talks about how worries about money infiltrate all aspects of our lives, "making us dread the days and agonise at night". You know what it's like when you have a worry that surfaces when all is quiet and you want to sleep. It's also so horrible and lonely tossing and turning when everyone else is asleep.

The other message is that "You have the power to change your lifestyle and move from a feeling of lack and deprivation to one of abundance and fulfillment". Remember the daily choice of which to inhabit? Scroll through past blogs until the one written on Jan 1st .

Sarah Ban Breathnach finishes todays reading with "The simpler we make our lives, the more abundant they become"

Start today and thanks from me to Sarah for all her great guidance this year so far.

How happy are you?

I'm still doing my daily Simple Abundance reading and even though I've read it before, there is so much that I need to be reminded of.

Today it talked about what makes us happy and the fact that we could be happy every day if we could take pleasure in what we have and what is around us. It is said that 'we must learn to savour small authentic moments that bring us contentment'

I am really working on this as I do believe we have so much already in our lives. So what are the simple pleasures that make you happy? For me it's sunshine; candles; walking; good quality time with close friends; the forest near my home; hugs from my daughter; being able to help; waking up naturally; a glass of wine.

Make a list of yours and try to include one in every day as well as finding more of the simple things that bring you pleasure.

Just think how great we can be if we are always happy?

Lovely people ease the journey.

On our life's journey there are challenges, obstacles and lots of adventures. Some are easy and fun and some really difficult and can be unpleasant.

I had one of those potentially unpleasant experiences ahead of me today and although I was working hard on my positivity, I could feel the stress fill my body as we turned into a long queue of traffic heading just where I needed to.

When I got to the destination there were no signs telling me where to go and the blank look and very unhelpful response from the person at reception, when faced with the question 'is the screening unit in this building?' made me wonder what planet she was on. Yes, that was the stress taking hold too.

I finally got there, but late, and I hate being late.

'No problem,' I was informed, 'just take a seat' and then when I was called through, the radiographer was a dream. She put me at ease straight away, chatting and taking me through the process I was about to undergo. My stress lifted and I was immediately calm and I also felt cared for.

Yes, the process is not one I'd rush back for, but it was 10 times easier than what I'd been led to believe and much less painful. But was it really or did that happen because with her skill and experience the radiographer eased my journey because she was able to put me at ease?

I'm a great believer in we get what we expect. I try to remain positive as much as possible and in this lady's hands I expected good.

Just have a think about whose journey you might be able to make easier. They'll really appreciate it and also look out for the people who ease yours.

Are you still going strong?

The first day of a New Year always seems relatively easy but what about day two?

I didn't sleep at all well last night and with me that often leads to irritability so I suppose I was prepared. I was also very aware about what I read yesterday and how I thought. So... when I woke up (naturally without the help of an alarm) I felt OK and immediately thought that today I'd choose an abundant reality. I quite like the idea of doing this on a day to day basis.

It's been tested especially when working with my daughter on sorting out photos for an album. Trouble is that both of us want to lead and that's a recipe for tension. In fact in my family, all three of us want to lead.

Well I'm still smiling and still excited. In past years I've felt such a failure on the 2nd or 3rd Jan when I've lost my temper or got upset. It's felt like the end already. This year, that's just not going to happen.

With my day to day philosophy, I know that tomorrow is another start and I'm not going to beat myself up any longer.

Hope your doing well too.

Simple Abundance

This is a direct quote taken from the book Simple Abundance and it's by Margaret Young. I quote it because I believe we often need to be reminded of the issue and often are not even aware that we do it.

"Often people attempt to live their lives backward: they try to have more things, or more money, in order to do more of what they want so that they will be happier. The way it actually works is the reverse. You must first be who you really are, then, do what you need to do , in order to have what you want."

Does it make sense to you? It really rings a bell for me. I have so much to be happy about but am I really being who I am? That's going to be a big part of my journey this year. I value authenticity but am I truly authentic? Well if you are aware at any time that I'm not being, please let me know, you have my full permission. Are you who you really are?

Even in the forward of this book, I find so much that resonates. I am reminded that abundance and lack are parallel realities and that it's up to me to choose every day which I want too inhabit (I love that term). Towards the end of '08, I was choosing lack, not consciously but it was having a dire effect on me. Today I choose abundance and plan to do that every day.

If I, and/or others of you can make a major mind shift from Dec 31st to Jan 1st then why can't we do it every day? I'm going to view every new day as a new start- how exciting.

January, as well as being the month of new beginnings is, for those of us in the northern hemisphere, the time for hibernation and nurturing but more of that as the year unfolds. Have a great one, a year full of health and happiness, of love and success and most of all peace and hope.

What will you paint on that new canvas?

I love the new year, I love the new start and the chance to start again and in some cases put things right or at least that's the way I've sometimes seen it. Thinking about that today makes me realise that 'putting things right' means they were somehow wrong and that suggests failing and brings negativity into it. I am determined to be positive so......for me this is the new canvas and I can paint whatever glorious picture I want.

I am excited and hopeful about what I can create and what will come up for me. The excitement is mellow unlike the dizzy excitement I sometimes feel and actually that's really good. The glorious picture I can see emerging is one of calmness and quality. Slowing down so I can savour instead of rushing through. It's a canvas full of love and nuturing; of appreciation and of putting me first so my needs are met and I can then give more to others. It's full of walking, especially on the Camino with Teresa, and my wonderful East End Girls who I love to bits.

What will you paint? You don't have to complete it in one day, you can let it develop and take shape as the days unfold. Make it full of what you love though, you deserve it.


With regard to my walking, there are already suggestions for another breast cancer walk and I'm also hoping a group of us will do the Big Fun Walk in March. Then there's more of the Camino and our monthly walks. Firstly there's walking with Cajsa on Saturday. Perhaps we should have our own little Essex adventure......

I'm reading Simple Abundance again, I love the book but never seem to finish it. Will this be the year? It doesn't really matter, I learn something every time I read it.

Slow it all down and benefit

We had another wonderful but very hectic and sociable weekend. I love them but I also love my chill time and there's been none of that recently so yesterday I had a slow day.

I had a relaxing bath after breakfast, did my hair, dressed and then went for a massage. I floated away from that and then spent a couple of hours working in the dining room beside the fire with the candles lit. It was calm and I felt so refreshed after. In fact, I got as much done as I would have if I hadn't taken the time out and just rushed around like a mad thing.

The 'time out' allowed me to recharge and made me more productive and today I was in the office at 8.30 feeling refreshed and even had time today to think about what I could do next. Now that's a luxury that doesn't occur often.

Don't let the rush of the days up to Christmas stress you out, be proactive and take some time for you, you'll benefit.

Freezing weather walking.

It was so cold here yesterday, yes, I know it is winter. But in the UK our weather has become so unpredictable that you never know what you'll get.

Given the choice I do prefer 4 seasons, I love to see that changes that take place in nature and I like the fact that a cold winter will kill the bugs and refresh things. What I'm not so keen is getting up in the cold and dark and last night I wasn't too sure I wanted to leave my warm and cosy office and go up the house to change into my walking gear and go out to walk for 2 hours. I knew I'd enjoy it, but it was just the transition time.

Anyhow, I did, well I had two clients who are training for the Moonwalk and we are now up to walking 6 miles once a week plus the other walking they do in between. I'm really proud of them and they are well on target for May 2009.

I pulled on the layers, really important especially in the cold as once you get moving, you might want to strip off a little. Also important are gloves, socks, a scarf and hat. If your extremities are warm you will be.

We had a great walk and covered the 6 miles in an hour and three quarters. It was clear and very fresh and everywhere and everything sparkled making it really magical. It was as if diamonds had been scattered over all surfaces.

At one point we ended up on a round-a-bout but there was no pavement so being on the edge of grassy area we took a detour to get away from the traffic and walked along a grassy track. As we were still close to the road we had light but what was wonderful was the crunch of the grass underneath our feet and the feeling of walking on unchartered ground.

Two hours goes very quickly when you have good company and we chat about everything putting the world to right as we go. At this time of the year every week supplies us with new Christmas sights of trees and garden decorations, some very tasteful and elegant where others leave a lot to be desired ...... and then of course there are the houses across the street from each other in competition. All good amusement.

So if you thought walking in the dark in the cold was a no no, think again....and there's always a good hot meal to come home to and a glass of wine!

The power of the walk.

Through a google alert this morning my attention was drawn to the following blog and I wanted to share this excerpt with you as it resonates so strongly with me.

Ditch the stress and walk.
'I was returning to work after lunch today and realized just how much I like walking instead of using my car. It is much more relaxing then sitting at red lights and having to deal with other drivers. Unfortunately most people’s routines fall into our on-the-go lifestyle that our society has created and I think it weighs very heavily on work related stress and our health. As I walk home it gives me time to relax and think about other aspects of my life outside of work. The exercise is an added bonus, plus the fresh air.

Selfishly I also wish more people had the ability to walk because then I would be breathing in less exhaust from cars passing by. Maybe I would even meet a few new faces and exchange in some light friendly conversation. If people walked between work and home, maybe it would allow more time to connect with the natural world and develop a few more environmental advocates. I challenge you to examine your day and add up all of the hours you spend inside a building or car; you may be surprised by how little of your day is spent in nature. It this is not the case, then consider yourself one of the lucky ones.'

I often coach my clients about the need to transition from work to home and this is just such a great way to do it. It gives you some space to think through and deal with the work issues that may have impacted upon you and allow you to deal with them and then set aside before getting home.

To read more of this blog and to catch more input click on :-

http://rsfellows.wordpress.com/2008/12/01/ditch-the-stress-and-walk/

I wear it well - sometimes.

Reviewing some photos from the recent Professional Speakers Association (PSA) Convention which was the last event in Alan's year as President and found one of me in my finery as opposed to the walking gear that I am usually in when photos of me appear in this blog. What do you think?




It was so lovely to have an excuse to dress up and I felt so good. I also felt very appreciated when Alan thanked me from the stage for all my support. It came as a complete surprise and I got all emotional. It's just something I do and often it's just Ellie and me when he travels so we have good girlie time, yet, it was so nice for him to recognise my contribution. Just another one of the reasons I married this man.


Alan's had a great year and it was fitting that it ended on such a high. I'm so proud of him. Everyone now keeps asking about me having him at home. Don't believe it, he'll be off speaking throughout the world as usual. More excuses for dressing up in Phoenix in July next year!!

Take your problems for a walk

Yes, that's right. Comfortable shoes and layers to keep you warm and go walk.

Due to it's meditational qualities, walking gets us into a rhythm both physically and mentally and it puts things into perspective and enables to think more widely and more clearly.

The act of walking in the fresh helps clear our heads so there is room to mull over the problems and challenges and the scenery acts to inspire and motivate.

Listen to what is coming to you as you walk and I bet you come back with a solution or at least more calmness and peace in which to finally work it out.

If you can't work things out alone, how about some 'walk and talk' - http://www.walkerscoach.com/walk_and_talk.htm

Helpful additions to yesterdays blog.

In case you don't get round to reading blog comments, this one from Darlene was too helpful to miss so here you are.

I am a definite chocoholic. I find though, that if I stick to dark chocolate I only need a very little. It's the Christmas chocolates that do me in.

According to the site: http://www.naturopathyworks.com/pages/cravings.php Chocolate cravings are a sign of the body's need for Magnesium, and that they can be calmed by eating Raw nuts and seeds, legumes, fruits.

And according to http://www.brainready.com/blog/the_top_5_brain_health_food.html good quality chocolate is excellent for keeping the brain healthy.

They also say in this article: http://www.brainready.com/blog/walk_your_brain_to_health.html that 15 minutes of walking a day is also very beneficial to brain health.

Anyway, thanks for all your great info. I really enjoy reading it. Darlene
....and I really appreciate your input and all this guidance.

Want to kick your chocolate habit? Read on.....

I know, you love chocolate and if you could have a square or two at a time and leave the rest for later that would be great but it doesn't quite work that way does it? Well it doesn't for me and I guess there are a few of you out there who'd agree. If a box of chocolates gets opened in our house, just watch them go.....

Perhaps this research is just what you need then.

It was carried out at the University of Exeter and resulted in the finding that walking
Researchers at the University of Exeter have found that walking for just fifteen minutes can reduce chocolate cravings. The benefits of exercise in helping people manage dependencies is not new, it's been recognised to have a positive effect on cravings for nicotine and other drugs but not food cravings until now.

Twenty five regular chocolate eaters stopped eating chocolate for three days and then either rested or walked for 15 minutes. After that they were given tasks that would normally make them crave chocolate. Those who had exercised reported lower levels of craving.

Professor Adrian Taylor commented that "Neuroscientists have suggested common processes in the reward centres of the brain between drug and food addictions, and it may be that exercise effects brain chemicals that help to regulate mood and cravings. This could be good news for people who struggle to manage their cravings for sugary snacks and want to lose weight."

Apparently previous research has suggested that 97% of women and 68% of men experience food cravings and the food they want tends to be high in calories, fatty or sugary foods, with chocolate being the most commonly reported. Chocolate has a number of biologically active constituents that temporarily enhance our mood with a result that eating it can become a habit, particularly when we are under stress and when it is readily available, and perhaps when we are least active.

Ring any bells for you? It does for me.

Of course in small doses it's fine but too much does us no favours at all. As dark chocolate in small doses could be beneficial for your heart, try what I do and break it up into 2 square servings and put in a container in the fridge. In this way I find this amount satisfies me and I don't need more. That coupled with a walk which gets all the positive endorphins going may just be what you need.

Try it out and let me know how you get on and keep up to date with http://www.walkerscoach.com/

Big gap

I knew it had been a while but got rather a surprise when I realised that it had been so long since I'd blogged.

November has been an interesting month, no let's not go there, it's basically not been a very good one. We all have them - bad times or down times - and they're all part of life's journey and the best thing to do is go through them.

I've felt pretty down at times and that's led me to do a lot of questioning about where I am, what I'm doing, whether it's working etc. Not sure I've got the answer yet but I have been making changes.

It's hard work but regular evaluation and review is important. Are you doing this? Mine was sort of forced upon me this - I usually do this at new year time - so the good thing this year is that I'm one step ahead. Now I just need to make sure I put it into practice.

You know when I started my personal development journey, I naively thought that I'd fix a,b and c and that would be great. Oh dear, the more you look into the more there is to deal with and consider and I now know that the journey never ends.

Am I sorry I started it? No, not at all. I am a much better person now and someone who knows myself pretty well.

Does it make life easier? Well, yes and no. I know what I want and what to do to get there so I don't settle for second best and that can be hard but I'm comfortable being me and I have more confidence etc and I do what I love most of the time.

..and I've got really good at reading the signs and responding. Are you on your journey? Do you want a companion? Can I help?

Ease the unease

I've not been in a good place today and it's made me do some real soul searching.

In there are all the little niggly things that 'should' be deal with and that are hanging over my head. They're things that are not top in prioritising and so get shunted up and down the list but they come back to cause unease on a regular basis.

What are the niggly things in your life? Whar are you piutting up with? What are you tolerating? Yes, you.

I'd be really surprised if you said nothing. In fact I'd be in awe of you and want to know how you do it because in my experience most of us are tolerating a whole list of things.

It's likely to be things like - the screw that needs put back in place; that ‘space’ that needs clearing out; the lamp that needs fixing, the email you need to send.

For me, at the moment they include - the pump for the table fountain that needs finding so I can get it working, the article I need to write, the paperwork that needs sorting and the lamp that needs fixing. These things creep up on me regularly and they take up space in my head and drain my energy. How good would I feel to have them out of my way and out of my head?

So, here's a suggestion - make a list of all the things that you know you are tolerating and then make an action plan to deal with them. One by one or a couple at a time and 'do it'.

Just imagine how good it will feel to have ticked them all of the list and how proud you'll be of yourself for doing it. You’ll feel successful, in control and energised.

OK, off you go and feel free to post your achievements.

Here's to 'chill' time.

Have just had a really chilled weekend.

We were childless as Ellie had gone off to stay with some friends and Alan and I decided not to plan at all but just to 'do' what we felt like. It was bliss. We took time to enjoy breakfast, we talked, cooked a wonderful meal on Saturday night and caught up on a film or two.

He ran, I walked, we slept long, we wandered round the house and decided what things needed to do done - that really made me feel great as I had been feeling a little out of control re the house - now we just need to put a time line on it all.

I recommend it. If you manage to have a weekend for you or you and a partner, really do what you want to. Ditch the cleaning, get rid of the 'we shoulds' and chill. W don't do it enough.

Enjoy.

Trips away and that little bit of guilt.

France and Italy in the last couple of weeks - I feel rather spoiled and a little guilty.......but why?

I know I work hard, I know that I do more than 40 hours per week so why do I feel that little guilt from being away?

The first trip to France was work. As some of you know I was starting on, what I hope will be, a continued journey for a number of years as I complete the Camino de Compostella. It's 500+ miles long and in 4 days we did about 65, so a while to go yet.

How was it work? Well as the Walkers' Coach one of the things I do is train people to do treks - how credible would I be if my last trek was 10 years before? When I trek I have to up my fitness and training, all things that I can share. I also find out about new walks and treks and am able to advise and guide from a knowledgeable place.

This was taken early on a cold and frosty morning. It was clear and beautiful and this is work!!

I believe my guilt comes from doing what I love as it doesn't seem as if it's 'Work' but then that says a lot about how society defines 'work'. Why can't it be something you love?

I've always enjoyed my jobs but now I love what I do all the time. Even getting up at 7.00a.m. on a cold wet morning to walk is fine.

I'm hoping now-a-days that more and more of us can but I'm not convinced. From a career development point of view, and I still coach a lot of people on this in our "walk and talk" sessions, there are still too many people who hate their jobs and others who don't like their lives. To them I am in the minority and so lucky .... but then I've designed it this way. It took time but I got there and others can do so too.

Only you can change that so come on, be good to yourself. It may take a while but invest in you and get the life you want and deserve. You'll be much happier.

As for me..... the second break was pure holiday and just as much fun.

Eating Italian Ice-cream in Pisa

A view down the river in Florence with the Ponte Veccio in the foreground

The only guilt I feel there was work related as in having to not run some of my walks twice in one month. A staffing issue really and one I need to sort. Then perhaps the guilt will go. You know, now that I know what it is, I can deal with it.

What are you feeling guilty about? How can you change it? What action do you need to take? Go on, take it.

Chilled weekend.

I spent the weekend with a very dear friend and it was bliss. No deadlines, nothing that had to be done and lots of time to chat and 'be'.

This friend runs her own company, also has a small B&B facility and puts me to shame with her ability to keep up to date with all the people she does. OK, she doesn't have a husband and child but in my opinion, she needs to slow down a little. her daily schedule exhausts me.

When we get together, not often enough, the reason is often for a celebratory dinner for birthdays or Christmas or we may be in each others homes a a dinner party etc. All lovely occasions but often following a time line or so full of other people that no real in depth conversation takes place.

In fact this weekend we were meant to be off at a spa celebrating the 'Big 50' which happened to each of us in July but due to circumstances we ended up in London instead with me heading over to Elaine's. I really believe the chilled weekend we had instead was just as beneficial as the spa.

We wandered, we lunched, we bought things in the market and mooched round little shops. We visited some artists who were part of an open house weekend, we drank champagne to celebrate and feasted on Elaine's amazing food. We slept for hours - when was the last time I woke at 9.20, we had a leisurely breakfast, we went for a walk and mooched round some more shops, had coffee and lay on the grass in the sun. ....and we talked and talked and talked. It was bliss.

As I lay on the grass the view above my head was of this beautiful tree .....

and the common was full of people enjoying the late summer sun.

The weekend was one of the best I've had for ages and if you're on a budget it was really very cheap and could have been more so. I feel so refreshed and recharged, watch out week.

Athena - fantastic for networking.

Just over a year ago I joined the Athena Network and what a top move that was.

Ever since I started up in my own business I've attended networking events and at the beginning I tried out all that came along. If you're in the same situation or even if you've been in business for a while and not really got into networking I suggest you follow this path.

We're all different and we all have different ways of doing things, different styles, different needs and trying out a variety of networking opportunities allows you to explore what's out there and also find out what works best for you.

On offer at present are breakfast meetings, lunchtime do's and evening events. Some are formal, others not structured at all; some are mixed and others women only. Some offer one type of event and others can offer a mix of options.

Athena is a women only networking organisation - http://www.theathenanetwork.com/ and I love it. We meet for lunch once a month and give up two hours of our time. There's half an hour informal networking at the beginning and then we sit down to lunch and follow a structure during that time which allows every one to say a bit about their business and we also have a networking slot and a business slot.

I have done work with about 50% of the women in my group in some way or another and all those experiences have been great. I meet up for one to ones over coffee and would recommend the services of everyone of my colleagues.

I have met and developed great friendships and working relationships with all the women in my group and from them I get support, the opportunity to bounce ideas, help with promoting my business etc.

Yesterday every bit of feedback from the visitors talked about the vibrancy of the group, the energy and the professionalism, just what you want. Find out where your nearest Athena is and get along for a visit - http://www.theathenanetwork.com/

The power of two....or more

Ever been in the position of wanting to do something but feeling nervous about it?

Perhaps you'll have to go somewhere you don't know and you're afraid of getting lost. Perhaps you want to go to an event but don't know anyone. Maybe you have a great idea for a business but are not sure that you can do it on your own.

How would it be if you had someone else with you?

I'll bet that the prospect is now rather more rosy, less scarey and likely to even be exciting. So what is it that makes it so?

Well we are not alone, we have someone to bounce ideas off, someone to take the risk with no mattter how large or small.

As you know I love to walk and I'm always looking for new routes. Sometimes, I'm more than happy to do this on my own but at other times when it's in the forest or an area I don't know at all, I feel much more comfortable having company. It happened yesterday..... I went off for a short walk with my friend Cajsa yesterday and had in mind a new trail to follow. I knew she was up for a bit of exploration but we didn't stop at one bit, we tried out three new paths and every time it came to make a decision it was great to be able to bounce the ideas off someone else. So the short wak became two and a half hours and I have a few new routes.

My day was much more productive with two and your time can be as well. By working with others we can boost each others confidence, be more adventurous and achieve more.

So what are you trying to do or wanting to do that would be easier with someone else working with you.? Who might that person be?

Lovely day...

All plans for the weekend have been changed so I can enjoy the weather. Well, who knows how long it might last.

Washing has been dring quickly in the sun, I've been reading and chatting in the sun, lunch was eaten outside and I'm just catching up on email for a few moments before savouring the last hour or so ...

Hope you've had some fine weather to savour too.

A little wine?

We've had a grape vine in the garden for a few years now and it frames the Pavilion which is my office at the bottom of the garden. I love the affect it has and it adds depth and substance to the office and garden. It's also the last spot in the garden to get the sun and I often sit there to read or to enjoy a glass of wine (rather appropriately)

In late autumn, we cut it down and then I watch it go through its stages of growth and development throughout the coming year. It's an inspiring update as I watch the evolution. Some years we haven't had any fruit at all and sometimes the birds get there first.

This year there have been a couple of bunches of grapes which started off green but are now changing colour. Due to lots of grey days and minimal sunshine this colour change had more or less ceased but I'm delighted that a couple of warm and sunny days has kick started things again. As you can see from the photo, the largest bunch is well on its way to being red!

The whole process is similar to what we may all go through in various life processes - building a business, developing a relationship to name a couple. There are obstacles thrown up that might put us off our stride and if we're not sure whether we are committed or not, we may get scared and even give up. On the other hand if we have vision and determination, we can see it through.

The grey days were not in the ideal plan and they could have stopped the process entirely just like something that might throw the relationship off track. If that had happened, was there a plan B? Something always worth developing.....

As there are so few bunches of grapes, we won't be producing a Waring-Stevens Pinot Noir this year but we may just be able to sit back (in the sun) and enjoy them as grapes.

Chill and ease back on the throttle.

Are you able to let go of the outcome? This is a great skill to learn and for me keeps things in flow and much less stressed.

What does it mean? Basically when you make a decision or set an intention, you then move on and let what will be, be. It makes you more relaxed, it means you don't go and relive the decision or agonise over it but you have to be able to let it go and really be happy with whatever happens.

Start with small things and build up your skill from there.

Another way of looking at it is to think about that you are holding on to, too tightly. Being able to loosen your grip makes you more in control, relaxed and powerful so what things or decisions are you too involved with and how could you change them?

Get a piece of paper and write them down. It could be an aspect of your business and if this is so then things are likely to be stuck and unmoving. Is it a family issue and the fact you are so involved is stopping you seeing the bigger picture.

Do you get the gist of what I mean?

Ask yourself again and then consider what you need to do to relax that hold.

A Woman's World

A colleague of mine is making one of her dreams come true this weekend by launching 'A Woman's World' exhibition in Waltham Abbey on Sunday. Have a look at http://www.awomansworld.co.uk/

Due to life being very busy, I am preparing rather later in the day than I had hoped. I've got the family involved - Alan is helping me edit a video of my groups made on his new Vado (definitely a new toy) but it does produce great quality and Ellie will be helping prepare for the prize draw as well as helping out on the stand itself.

My aim is to increase the number of subscribers to my ezine by 300 - 500. In this way I can share the great benefits of walking with them and enthuse them to try out walking either in a local group or with the East End Girls and perhaps it will just motivate you to do something on your own as part of a holiday, weekend away or as part of your every day life.

Anything else is a bonus but I do know that I'll end up talking to people about East End Girls and the weight loss walking course too.

Will report back at a later date so keep posted.

Take your business out walking

Alan and I used to have more of our business meetings while walking but having opted to take a leisurely walk at lunch time today, we were commenting on the fact that we'd let this slip somewhat.


'Lack of time' or 'I'm too busy' is the usual cry but on thinking about it, not really a great excuse. Taking 'time out' charges our batteries, takes us away from the office environment and often the things that bring us down and the fresh air is just great for energising and adding a different perspective.

This photo was taken while walking near Ongar in Essex. We'd been discussing developments for the business and then Al's phone went. That call brought in £3k worth of business and was just as easy to organise while out walking. Lunch was a great opportunity to celebrate and when we do take our business out walking, one priority is to choose a walk with a good pub for lunch half way round. This gives us a chance to summarise and note down what we've discussed and the action planned as well as getting some refreshment.


I'm off to get the diary now and book some more of these in for the months that follow. The weather is pretty immaterial, you just need to make sure you have the right clothes and a plan B just in case it's torrential.


Think about bring this into your business, either as a one to one with colleagues or as a team and Walkers' Coach are happy to organise this for you. We can also organise your Netwalk Experience - http://www.walkerscoach.com/netwalk_experience.htm

Is the life I'm living the one I want?

Walking on my own gives me lots of time and space to think and first thing in the morning I plan my day but also find myself evaluating and taking stock.

I'm a great believer in the journey we are all on and the fact that I can take responsibility for how things our so only I really have the power to change things. Sounds simple, but of course it's not, lots of things get in the way.

E.g when you live on your own, it's much easier to have your home the way you want. When you have a husband and daughter, compromise is involved and I do sometimes find it hard to accept that I cannot have things in a certain way - I'm sure they do too.

With in the larger question above is the smaller one of 'is this they way I want it to be' and you can ask that of fairly small things. I find this one very helpful and once you can answer 'yes' to this every time you ask it, then your life probably is just as you want it too.

Sometimes very small questions can lead to big results."Is this the way I want it?" is a question which is significant both when dealing with major issues and minor annoyances. And the things that are not the way we want them are the things that drain our energy and our motivation.

So where would you start? How about your kitchen? How about your skin? How about your relationship? If the answer is 'no' then what is it you have to do to make it be as you would want? Get that pen and paper out and make a list and then, the difficult bit, take the action you need and keep taking it until you get the 'yes' you want.

How about trying it out.

My body, although fitter and more toned than it's been for a long time is not there yet so what do I need to do? More 7.00a.m. power walks and less chocolate. I actually need to plan my meals better in advance. This week I have been ensuring my 10,000 steps every day and only failed once so I've started taking that action.

To make me accountable to you my readers, this coming week and let's start that tomorrow, I shall:-
1. Do at least 10,000 steps per day
2. Plan the meals for the week ahead
3. Fit in 4 powerwalks

Of what are you asking the question and what are you going to do?
Come on post it and let's be accountable to each other.

If you're not sure where to start on all of this, take a walk round your home, notebook in hand, and ask yourself that question - 'Is this the way I want it to be?" Write down everything you find that isn't the way you want it to be. Then pick one thing off the list and resolve to make it the way you want it to be. Pick something easy to start off with.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Food, one of life's pleasures

For me food is one of life's great pleasures and last night to celebrate our 13th wedding anniversary, my dear husband cooked me a wonderful meal. He planned some of it and then waited to see what would arrive in our organic box before he finalised his plans. The result was delicious (of course).

I know there's loads of debate about organic food but I let the taste of it guide me and my observation is that the fruit and vegetables are so much nicer than what I get at the supermarket.

If you're interested then the 6th - 21st of September is organic fortnight - http://www.soilassociation.org/organicfortnight so if you don't usually bother much perhaps this is the time to try it out and see if it suits you.

In much of the walking we do, food features. Whether it's what to take as a snack when you're out on a long walk or in the hills, if your trying to get fit or lose weight and want to eat well and of course we're always looking for good places to stop and have lunch or coffee. The food doesn't have to be organic, but for me it helps if it is locally sourced, of the season and well cooked and prepared.

What do you think?

300 years of St Pauls.

Whether you live in London or not, St Paul's cathedral is probably familiar to you. It's one of the iconic buildings in London and can be seen from quite a few places in our city, very clearly standing out on the skyline.

This year is St Paul's 300 anniversary and in November the building will be let up and will also have words projected onto the building's dome.

The question, put by artist Martin Firrell is 'What makes your life meaningful? and the words you use will be the words projected. You can submit your own words by going to http://www.blogger.com/www.stpauls.co.uk and clicking on 'The Question Mark Inside'.

St Paul's is one of the sights I am often drawing people's attention to as we walk in London and is very clear from the Thames Path which we are walking at present.

Feedback, bring it on.

'It’s always so lovely to read your newsletters! I already feel more active in spirit if not in body!!' - Rachel Daniel, Regional Director – The Athena Network. www.theathenanetwork.com

Thank you Rachel for your lovely feedback, useful as always. It's so important we get it and even when not as positive as this, it helps us amend, rethink, build and develop. I am open to all the feedback anyone wants to send my way.

The next newsletter is out this week, probably on Thursday so sign up from http://www.walkerscoach.com and get your own copy.

Are you the 10th?

Read this and wanted to share it with you.

For every 9 people who denounce innovation, only one will encourage it. For every nine people who do things the way they have always been done, only one will ever wonder if there's a better way. For every nine people who queue in front of a locked building only one will ever go round and check the back door. Our progress as a species relies squarely on the shoulders of that tenth person. The nine are satisfied with things they are told are valuable. Person 10 determines for himself what has value.

Za Rinpoche and Ashley Nebelsieck in the Backdoor to Enlightment.

Have a read at this...

After posting all my photostoday, I just came across this article and wanted to draw your attention to it.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/19/AR2008081902703.html?hpid=news-col-blogs

I can totally agree with loads of what is being said as I thought it was a fabulous place but I don't have anything to compare it with so nice to hear from someone who does.

Prepare to be inspired...and humbled

Every so often someone who does something that really makes the rest of us think and this is one of those situations....

Most of us remember the suicide bomb attacks on London tube trains and buses on July 7, 2005. It was the day after my 47th birthday and also the day after London won the right to host the Olympics in 2012. I remember how happy London had been and how everyone was celebrating and the kids who live close were planning how they could be involved. It was then so hard to comprehend how this could all be so short lived as London watched in horror as the news unfolded.

One lady, who was the last person to be pulled alive from a Piccadilly tube train travelling between Kings Cross and Russell Square was Gill Hicks. An Aussie, Gill lost both legs in that attack but has just completed a 30-day trek which saw her walk from Leeds to London, a distance of 435 km on her prosthetic limbs.

After arriving in Trafalgar Square on Sunday, Ms Hicks said: "All of us stepped into this journey with great faith and great belief that humanity would carry us through from town to town and that's exactly what happened. "For me to walk from Leeds to London is probably the single most difficult thing I could ever have imagined. "I still can't quite believe that I have achieved it but I never gave up because of the people that never gave up on me."

Way to go, Gill. You are an inspiration to us all.

The power of PR.

The programme hasn't even gone out yet but already I've had enquiries from 4 new people to join my East End Girls and a potential client in the North West.

What will tomorrow bring? It's all very exciting.

Don't forget, radio 4 at 3.00 p.m. July 18th.

On the Radio.

I love to walk and I'm also a little bit of a performer hence the reason that I love to train, to talk to people and to appear in the media.

I was delighted to get a chance to do a mix of these on June 9th when myself and some of the East End Girls (my walking group) did a walk in the Lakes for Radio 4's 'Ramblings' programme.

Here we are about half way through the walk

The programme will be broadcast this Friday, July 18th on Radio 4 at 3.00p.m. If you can, do listen and tell me what you think. We even got a write up in the Radio Times!

You can comment through the blog or on heather@walkerscoach.com.

If you are inspired and want to walk, then the East End Girls are always looking for new members - http://www.walkerscoach.com/east_end_girls.htm and Walkers' Coach also runs a range of local walks called Walk your Way to WOW - http://www.walkerscoach.com/walk_your_way_to_wow.htm

If you'd like something in your area, wherever that might be, please let me know as we will be rolling out our programmes and services throughout the UK and Ireland in 2009.