When I first started my weight loss journey, I never dreamed that I would inspire others to get up, get out and rack up some miles. But today I was humbled by my peers when I attended the Paths For All Network Event.
I had been invited to speak about my experiences, my transformation and my coordination of a 125 participant strong work place walking scheme to over 350 delegates from across the country representing national and local government, the health service and various volunteer bodies. Now, don’t get me wrong. Catch me in the street or in the shops and ask about my journey and just try and shut me up. My life has changed dramatically and I’m happier now than I’ve ever been. My passion can sometimes be a little overwhelming at times.
But, this was my first major public speaking gig, and I was nervous, to say the least. Billed as the closing speaker, I got even more nervous as the day progressed as every speaker before me were amazing, especially my warm up act Dr Andrew Murray who, having ran to the North Pole and across the Sahara, is someone who inspires me. His talk about the benefits of activity and how the Scottish Government plan to enthuse the nation had the audience up on their feet.
A hard act to follow but I am nothing if not passionate about what I do so I fought the nerves, strode up to the stage “like a boss”, took one look at the applauding audience…..and FORGOT my speech!!
Luckily, as the subject matter was me, a subject I know quite a lot about (and love talking about), I was able to wing it. And successfully too by the sound of the raucous applause and standing ovation at the end.
Although it wasn’t quite the end. As well as making some new friends, I also gained a lovely new piece of glassware for my desk along with a cheque to help fund my next project, which I hope to launch soon.
 |
| With two boys in the house, I’m not sure how long this will remain a) Clean and b) Intact |