​Over the years, I've had the privilege of standing alongside remarkable individuals who've achieved incredible feats of endurance as a running coach – from 10km races to marathons or even consecutive marathons, and from 100km and 100-mile ultras to crossing the vast expanse of Australia.

In moments of struggle, doubt, setbacks, occasional "failures," all the way to inevitable triumphs, I stand tall and proud, cherishing the audacity and hard work these individuals bring to the table. They are my tribe. This collaboration and the relationships forged make me feel a part  (albeit small) of their journey and important.

Will stands out among these extraordinary individuals, having dedicated himself to running across Australia last year. He pursued this challenge in his unique way, driven by personal reasons and a quest for growth. I'm hopeful that his story of Unbreakable Will can serve as an inspiration and a reminder that sometimes the obstacle is the way. 

​As I officially embark on pursuing my 2024 goals and commitments, I am excited.
I recognize that to sustain this initial drive and intention beyond the first couple of months, I must cultivate new habits and align my environment and daily routine with my desired outcomes.
This entails restructuring my daily plans and schedule, and, crucially, learning to say NO — both to myself and the tempting call of FOMO. Saying no comes hard for me. But I understand is the foundational step towards achieving anything.
In 2024, my focus shifts to longer-term goals, extending beyond athletic endeavours. Certain aspects of my life that have lingered in the background are ready to take centre stage.
Athletic pursuits are and have been a convenient escape. I can work hard for them because ultimately I do enjoy the process.
In 2024, I am drawn to do "hard things" beyond just the realm of running and body work.
It's time to spice things up.

​I thoroughly enjoy Crossfit's "Workout of the Day" (WOD); the element of surprise keeps the training and motivation fresh.

In Crossfit, each day introduces a new set of exercises, encouraging people to drop in and tackle workouts that might seem daunting on paper. The beauty lies in not knowing what's coming; until you turn up on the day, you don't know if the workout includes exercises you excel at, struggle with, or simply fear. It's this uncertainty that sparks excitement and keeps me on my toes.

As a running coach, my goal is to infuse that same sense of anticipation and surprise into my running group. Similar to the WOD, I refrain from revealing the workout details in advance (online coaching adds a layer of complexity as people need to manage their time). This intentional mystery serves as a powerful motivator, challenging runners to confront sessions they might otherwise shy away from. It's about breaking free from preconceived notions, pushing boundaries, and realizing the strength and capabilities that lie within.

The surprise factor not only injects fun into the routine but also cultivates a resilient mindset, fostering a community of people who are ready to take on any challenge, any time, no matter how intimidating it may seem on paper.

​Ah, the art of tapering, a dance between restraint and anticipation. 

Tapering may be essential but always it's a challenging phase. It's like trying to hold back from a delicious pizza right in front of me! 
But I am living it as a joyful struggle, a countdown to race day where each Kilometer I skip now feels like holding back a powerful wave I can enjoy in a week time.

I am itching to unleash, but the magic lies in the restraint. 
A blend of excitement and self-discipline, a crescendo to race day.

​I used to restrain myself from expressing my opinions, thoughts, and emotions due to the fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or mockery. 
In reality, this restraint provided no true protection and offered no benefits. In my early twenties I discovered the confidence to embrace my authentic self, to stand by my beliefs. I spoke up, changed my circle of friends, relocated to a different country, and constructed a life aligned with my own perception of what is right for me.

Like everyone, the journey wasn't a smooth ride, and I learned a great deal along the way, humbly absorbing the lessons from various life experiences, both positive and challenging, that shaped my personality.

Reflecting on the past, it's now evident that it was only when I stood up and spoke my truth that I was truly heard, and only when I embarked on my own path that I experienced genuine movement.

These days, I don't worry as much about other people's opinions, and it's liberating. 
What's even more liberating is my newfound ability and confidence in being vulnerable with others. Surprisingly, I've discovered more acceptance than judgment in response.

Who would have thought that what terrified me the most growing up - letting people know how I truly feel and what I genuinely think — could evolve into a source of greater closeness?