Wellbeing Innovation Blog

Always Love a Free Hug

2010-04-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

“We need 4 hugs a day for survival. We need 8 hugs a day for maintenance. We need 12 hugs a day for growth.”
Virginia Satir

It has taken me many years to simplify the potentially complex subject of wellbeing or wellness. Years of study have taught me some incredible and esoteric things that are infinitely complicated to the curious, western mind.

Study of medicine, energy, meditation, yoga, NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Time-Line Therapy, Hypnotherapy, to name but a few, have given me some varied techniques and perspectives along the way.

However, keeping the sustained feeling of change and positivity is something that had been illusive throughout this journey. How is it possible to get so many breakthroughs intellectually and not translate them into sustained action afterwards?

For the past few months I have been giving out free hugs in London, with a few dedicated friends. On occasions I have woken up and not really felt in the mood to face the unpredictable moods of the general public.

Each free hugs session will provoke just about every sort of emotional response possible. I have seen people get angry, hostile, insulting, rude and dismissive, each time I have gone into London free-hugging. This is part of the reason that it is so magical.

The contrast in perspectives just make the interactions of those who do understand that hugging feels good all the better. Feeling good is the only thing that matters in health and wellbeing. It is not what you do – but how you feel about it that matters.

For many years I have questioned myself as a wellbeing role model.

"Do I have the healthiest diet possible?" No. I am prone to eating and drinking things that would not be considered healthy by purists. Though I enjoy what I eat.

"Do I have the healthiest exercise routine?" No. I sometimes have a lapse in my routine. But I always go back to it.

"Do I have the healthiest lifestyle?" No. I am human and have what many would consider flaws in the way I live. Yet I have stories and memories that make me smile every time I think about them as a result of these quirks in my character.

There will always be people who are better at certain areas of health and wellbeing than I am. There will also be those who sit in judgement of how I live my life. However, ask different questions like,

"Do I know how to feel good, instantly?" Yes – Everytime.

"Do I know how to be kind to myself, even when others are not?" Yes – Everything in life is a test of my congruence to my current path.

"Do I know that hugging random people feels fantastic?" Yes – Because I do it regularly.

As human beings we need to connect, we need to have physical contact and we need to FEEL GOOD. Every time I go out hugging there are always enough people who experience amazing shifts in the way they feel – instantly.

These are the memories I take from each free hugs session that I do. We were even passed by a large group of people who were hugging policemen! It was a most interesting experience – and great fun as they queued up to hug us.

Forget the research, forget the complex systems of wellbeing and alternative therapy and forget the judgements of others. The fast track to health and wellbeing is feeling good and the fastest way to do that is to spend a day giving out free hugs. It will make you smile and change your mood and your life - forever.

Please feel free to join the group at http://bit.ly/1RtZdF and maybe join us the next time to share the feel-good vibe.

Awareness, Forgiveness, Acceptance and Focus - The Keys to Happy Family Relationships

2010-04-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

One of the most frequent things that I hear when I talk to people about loving yourself first is "How do I deal with negative family members?"

This is a great question.

There are no absolute answers to this but I will offer my opinion on the subject.

Every relationship that you have with your mother, father, son or daughter is not just a relationship between two people. It is the result of generations of family conditioning, beliefs and habits that have been passed down. We learn and model behaviours of our parents whether we like it or not as children.

An unconscious belief or pattern that you are currently running could have originated hundreds or even thousands of years ago by a long distant relative and you are just playing it out on one person who is close enough to listen to you and believe what you say to them because they trust and love you.

We are born into this world with a desire to connect and our parents are the ones who spend most time connecting with as kids. When one day they start shouting, saying negative things and appear unhappy, we take that on board emotionally and energetically. This was probably what happened to them - as they were conditioned by their parents.

All negative family members are the result of generations of conditioning that they did not have the tools to process. They were not prepared for this. They did not have the realisation to know that these feelings were not personal - just an opportunity to change their conditioning.

Because you will have hard-wired and well rehearsed responses to close family it is important to maintain a distance from anyone who is blaming you on a consistent basis. They do not realise that it is not you but generations of sameness that they are blaming.

Being big enough to grasp this concept and change the conditioning is the ultimate objective for anyone looking to move forward in a way that supports their wellbeing.

This change has 4 phases.
1. Awareness (it is not only my mum/dad/son/daughter who is negative but many years of genetic conditioning being passed along)
2. Forgiveness (everything that has ever happened has brought me to this point in my life where I am ready to be at peace with who I am)
3. Acceptance (I accept who I am and who my family are and will learn and grow from everything)
4. Positive focus (I choose to see, hear and feel only what feels good for me.)

In short - see the bigger picture, forgive the person in question and focus on what you want (or you will get what you don't!)

Forgiveness may not happen overnight, right now. Continued focus on positive outcomes and a desire to unlearn anything that no longer serves you will certainly help though.

Better Quality Questions = Better Quality Life

2010-04-05T14:04:00.000-07:00

What would happen to me if I stopped judging other people?

There are many other such questions, though this is a good one to start with.

I still find myself judging others occasionally, though this now happens much less since I made a decision to focus more on my actions and less on the actions of others.

Every time we judge others we are projecting our beliefs on them. We don't know the real reason why others act as they do. Upbringing and life experience moulds different people differently.

By judging others you judge yourself. By accepting that life is unpredictable and relatively short it is possible to spend more time thinking about how to make the most of YOUR life and less time thinking about how other's could make the most of theirs.

Is it possible to go one day without judging anyone or anything?

What will your power question be today?

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2010-03-24T11:56:00.001-07:00

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Walking at 4am

2010-03-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have a day where you were so in your own head that you missed what happened around you?

In a deep state of meditation this is a good thing. In daily life it isn't.

Awareness is a good thing and so is listening occasionally.

When we listen we understand more.

As I walked through my home city of St Albans at 4am earlier I walked through an empty, quiet city. Quiet of human activity but very vocal from the birds. Their singing was all around and grounded me into the moment. As I listened to the birds and walked through the streets I saw a row of 4 green traffic lights. I'm guessing that 4 green lights and a total absence of traffic is not a sight that many drivers would associate with an artery into the centre of the city.

I felt truly blessed to witness a side to St Albans that I never dreamed I'd see. By doing something different I have learned to notice the bids sing and experience the place I live in a different light.

Life is good when you dare to be different and look for the things that make you happy.

What makes you happy?

Ask yourself this and how you could do it more often. I have found this to be a most beneficial question to ponder.

A big smile to all of you :-)

Sknow Magic!

2010-01-13T06:20:00.000-08:00

There is something magical about snow.

I remember the days when I used to watch the news and read the papers. As soon as snow hit there were reports of disaster, doom and gloom all over the country. Trains weren't running because it was the wrong type of snow, people were freezing to death and cars were being marooned all over the country.

These days I do not read any papers beyond the sports pages and the news is something that I haven't watched for years. I realised one day that not since the days of John Craven's Newsround (and I'm now showing my age!) had I seen something positive on a news report.

Since our focus affects our lives, why would I want to find out lots of things that aren't working?

Today I went out walking in the snow and a lady in a car pulled out in front of me as I walked down the road. She looked at me and gave me a huge smile. I smiled back and have felt great ever since. It has not been a typical experience for me in St Albans so far.

Since the snow has come I'm sure that all of the same things that always happened are happening. However, my experience is now completely different.

My evenings have now incorporated a walk to our local lake, which has been frozen over for the past week or so. The snow-covered surroundings light up the place enough to see clearly as the moon reflects upon it.

Something that I would have taken for granted, or not even left the house to see, is now causing me an inner peace like never before. Standing on the bridge of our lake and taking in the surroundings at night, in what is usually an empty park, is something special and has led me to many profound insights.

My nephews, Connor and Kian, aged 6 and 7, stayed with me over the weekend. On Friday evening we went for a late night walk and snowball extravaganza by the lake. We ran into a group of people building an igloo – a very impressive feat. What wasn't so impressive was me falling through the wall of the entrance as I attempted to help them cover the roof.

This caused great (and understandable) irritation amongst the builders. It also prompted loud laughter from my nephews. I decided to take the blame and exit the scene as the builders of the now collapsed igloo pointed fingers at each other and the language became more colourful! My nephews giggled all of the way to the lake. It was funny and a classic example of when positive intent meets negative results. Fortunately, Connor and Kian saw the results as very positive indeed and have been laughing about it ever since!

After an hour or so of running around I took them to the bridge to stand and reflect with me.

We chatted for about half an hour and I found my eyes welling up at the profundity of what they had to say. My elder nephew, Connor, realises how lucky he is and how others do not have as much as him. His plan is to contribute his entire savings to sponsoring goats for African families.

I'm not sure that his mum and dad will be as quick to let him spend all of his savings on goats but he really wants to do it. I had no idea about the project that he was on about but now realise that it is running and the advertising must have affected him deeply.

Kian, my younger nephew, started talking about Club Penguin and saving rainforests. I had no idea what the link was until afterwards. It turns out that there is a website called Club Penguin where kids have their own penguin and collect coins for penguin accessories. Every now and again they get a chance to give coins to a worthy cause. Kian told me that he always gives coins to help grow trees. He tells me that this is – "because without trees we will be dead."

Kian also went on to say "When I was young (and he's only 6!) I thought that it was important to win all the time but now I know that it isn't always." I had never heard them share in such a light before. I let them stay out late, talked to them like adults and, suddenly, I'm faced with two philosophers.

Connor then looked up at the stars, "Isn't that nice Uncle Ads, shall we join them together and make shapes?" I hadn't even noticed them until that point.

In those moments I felt grounded, connected and truly grateful to be alive. Magic is the ability to be in the moment and usually involves doing something different to that of the masses.

I went to catch a train at St Albans station last week. It was delayed and severe weather warnings had the staff advising us not to travel. I had an event to run and had to go into London. I ended up having a drink at the station coffee shop. It soon filled up and before I knew it I was joined by three ladies. Chatting to people that I don't know has not been a regular experience for me in St Albans but lately it has.

In adverse situations community spirit is nurtured for many. More people are smiling. More people are talking. And more people are feeling better. Maybe this is just a reflection of what I am feeling at the moment. Whatever it is – it has all been enhanced since the snow started.

How I feel has now become my number one priority in life. If it feels good then I will do it. If not – it's time to do something else. Right now, I am loving St Albans, the snow and everyone who I have met or smiled at me in the past weeks. Even a simple smile has the ability to transform someone's day.

My Christmas Carol Experience

2009-12-26T13:41:00.000-08:00

As a kid I used to ponder the logistics of Santa's task. One man and over 6 billion people to deliver to all over the planet. How did he manage to get all around the world in one night? During my following years as a nurse I also used to listen to many people review their lives. Watching "A Christmas Carol" brought on a particularly contemplative mood for me this year and I decided to review my past, present and future around London on my own Christmas Carol.

I was always told that Santa was magic and that anything was possible for him. With so many chimneys, mince pies and various drinks to consume it is no wonder that his Body Mass Index is on the high side. He consumes more calories in one night than most people do in a lifetime.

On Christmas Eve I decided to dress up as Santa again and make a few people smile around London. So, I called a couple of like-minded friends, Nicholas and Hitesh, and off we went with a free hugs sign and a few smiles.

Eighteen years ago I left my job in the city – an experience that saw fun and happiness drain from my life. I worked in a monotonous job in the documentary credits department of a Japanese Merchant bank. We decided to walk through the city at the beginning of our walk. This would be our walk into Christmas past. Our Christmas Carol had begun.

As we handed out our first hugs of the day in the city we were approached by a very stern security guard. He informed us that we had no permission to dress up and would have to leave the premises. We did almost manage to make him smile as we offered him a hug, though he did warn us that he may not respond too nicely if we did.

We smiled and walked on through the streets of the city, with most people ignoring us. However, there were several who managed a smile and a group of tourists who did call us across the road to claim some free hugs. For me it was a reminder of how soul-less I felt in my city-job years.

We then ventured towards Bond Street and a livelier atmosphere. Here we were stopped more frequently as people queued for hugs and photos. This represented our walk of Christmas present. It felt good and we had a lot of fun in the process.

During just a few hours we were stopped and hugged by people from all over the world. People from Scotland, Ireland and Wales stopped, as did those from France, Italy, Greece, Spain, Russia, Lithuania, Poland and Germany. Others stopped from China, Taiwan, Thailand, Iran, Kuwait, Lebanon, Israel Japan, Malaysia, Singapore India and Pakistan. Representatives hugged us from Mexico, USA, Bolivia, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, The Soloman Islands, Tonga, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, South Africa, Nigeria and Mauritius.

So, I truly experienced the magic of connecting with people all over the world in one night. As we walked through the streets of London we sang songs, hugged people, witnessed more magic as children hugged us and spread the magic of Christmas to us. We were given free chocolate by a homeless guy, free mince pies from a lady in a restaurant, offered a free ride by a chap on a bike-taxi and given a free gift by one lady.

The feeling of connecting with people from all over the world is my walk of Christmas future. Nothing beats the feeling of smiling, feeling good, singing and making people laugh.

I managed to miss the last train home to St Albans. Normally, this would be a semi-traumatic experience, but not as Santa. Tubes were still running on the Northern line, so I went to High Barnet instead.

On the way I was stopped and asked for more photos and I had a sing-a-long with a group of high-spirited friends returning home. As it turned midnight I found a social gathering of friends in Barnet, who I hadn't seen for a while. I spent the next few hours with good friends, feeling great and was given a place to stay for the night.

On Christmas morning I was picked up by my sister and taken off for a great day with my family. I am feeling very grateful for being alive today.

Carlsberg don't do Christmas, but if they did…..!

I Believe in Santa All Over Again!

2009-12-20T03:57:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I dressed up as Santa and joined some friends in London to give out some free hugs. Dressing up as Santa is something that I have done many times and I have had several free-hugging expeditions. However, I could not have prepared myself for the magical experience that I would have.

With no particular plan we drifted around London in 0 degrees. It proved to be a little cold, especially on the finger tips but we broke up our hugs with coffee shop stops and trips on the underground. At one stage we had about 15 friends giving out free hugs.

Throughout the day we gave hundreds of hugs each. This was particularly nice in such cold weather. I was also approached by several young children who wanted to be hugged by Santa. This was a wonderful experience.

Listening to skeptical views on what was in it for us was one call of the day. I was even offered money by one mum as I hugged her little girl! Disarming people about our intentions was another rewarding aspect of our day. Our aim is to spread a few smiles around London and feel good as we see the results. It is a perfect win-win investment of time.

As the day turned to night and our group thinned out we decided to go and sing some Christmas songs on the underground and hand out a few free hugs. This proved to be a great exercise in lifting the spirits of the tube. Not everyone wanted a free hug but a surprising amount of people did.

We had people sing along, lots of applause, lots of smiles and plenty of confused-looking people as we raised the energy of the tube.

When all of my fellow free-huggers finally went their separate ways it was just me heading home on the night train to St Albans. I did not anticipate that it would be snowing or that I'd have so much fun.

The train was crammed and the mood was generally low from a few returning revelers who were squashed together.

To cheer things up on a very crowded train I sung a few songs and a group of men joined in, easing the atmosphere. This also prompted a few songs from further down the carriage. About mid-way into the journey I noticed a very small boy, who could not have been more than about 5 years old. He was looking up at me, slightly bemused. I kneeled down to ask him how he was and, suddenly, all of the revelry around me stopped as the train travelers appeared to focus in on our conversation.

I had a chat with him before asking the young lad if he would like a hug. He nodded before giving me the most amazing hug of the day. It lasted several minutes and seemed to transform the mood of the train.

In those minutes something magical happened and it felt amazing. I felt the energy of the train shift as they saw Santa in action. He was clearly real for the young man and the incident brought tears to my eyes as I realised how he felt.

To touch lives in a deep and meaningful way, if only for a moment, is something that words cannot truly describe. Many people thanked me as they exited the train and I received a big cheer as I got off at St Albans. I returned home last night having people smile at me and even stop to say hello. This is not commonplace for me in St Albans with people I don't know.

For anyone who does not believe in Santa or the magic of Christmas I strongly recommend that you dress up and experience it for yourself. Today I feel better than I have all year. Yesterday I had some flu-like symptoms starting to manifest. Today they have gone and I spent most of my day in cold weather.

No amount of drugs, health care, rehabilitation or counseling will ever work as quickly as the desire to have fun, connect with people and touch lives in a meaningful way. I now believe in Santa and his magic all over again and feel very grateful for the gift that my fellow free huggers, numerous children and especially my young friend on the train home that I hugged, have given to me. Santa is, and always will be, as real as we allow him to be.

I have not felt this good in a long time.

The Penny Drops - But I Don't!

2009-12-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

Life certainly has a laughable habit of leaving questions unanswered for years. Indeed they usually get forgotten until the answer finally pops up years later!

As a young lad my Grandad used to walk behind me and randomly trip me up. This gave him much amusement and me a few bruises along the way. Indeed, in today's climate of political correctness and rules gone mad, he may well have ended up in trouble!

Despite his penchant for practical jokes at my expense that gave him much amusement, he was always very good to me and I loved him dearly. I also, over time, became very good at adjusting my body to unexpected trips. That is not to say that I don't fall occasionally!

Last night I found myself at a country club, in the relative wilderness, when the snow decided to come down very fast and turn things very slippery and treacherous in just a few hours. When we finally left it was time for a very slow trip home on some very slippery paths.

Fortunately, my friend managed to get me almost home before I opted to walk up the final hill, not wishing him to get stuck, as happened with a few cars as I walked up it. I decided to push one out of a slippery spot and watched people fall over all around me.

On a few occasions my feet slipped on slippery patches, catching me off-guard. However, I managed to compose myself quickly and avoid some potentially nasty falls. When I finally arrived in I sat down and contemplated the gift that my Grandad gave me. It may have taken the best part of 30 years to unlock the true gift that he gave me, preparing me from a young age for such freak weather conditions!

I have been smiling all day as I remember my training all those years ago that prepared me so well for last night. I am feeling very grateful since getting in last night and loving the quirky sense of humour that life serves up on such occasions.

I dedicate this entry to the memory of my grandad, who I loved very dearly when he was alive - and even more so after my penny drop moment last night. Thank you :-)

What Happens When You Don't Eat For 7 Days?

2009-11-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I finished a 7 day fast. I had done a 10 day fast last year so knew what I was in store for – at least I though I did. My memories had become very different from the true experience over time!

Detoxing is something that I do occasionally to give my system a flush and raise my energy levels. The outcomes are increased energy, motivation and drive. Not to mention extra time, where I would have been eating.

The experience also comes with challenges. Not eating is not natural to most human beings. Changing the habits of a lifetime are never going to be an easy task. I have seen my will power stretched and undergone numerous trials and tribulations in the past week.

I have also listened to numerous opinions on fasting. Most people that I spoke to believed that they would not be able to last that long. Others have told me that there are better ways to detox and some just didn't see the point at all.

Many people were impressed by my will power and wished that they could do the same. It is my belief that there are many beliefs that are incredibly restricting. It is never a case of not being able to do something like this – it is only a case of having sufficient motivation.

If your life was at stake you would most certainly be able to go a week without food.

Being a Health Consultant with a liking for coffee, chocolate, cake and pizza I take the rough with the smooth. Over the months and years I have reduced my intake of these foods and increased my healthy foods intake, yet I still enjoy indulging occasionally.

During the past week I have discovered the wonders of drinking hot water with lemon, lime, maple syrup and cayenne pepper – a veritable taste sensation. My daily drinks gave me more pleasure than I can describe!

I believe that life is about balance. Focusing too strongly on what you have denied yourself is the fast track to failure. For example, how many smokers stop smoking, only to start again? They are so focused on not smoking that they inevitably do. Only by focusing on the benefits will change ever last.

I decided to distract myself from food by focusing on what I did want. I wanted to take action on things that I was passionate about. One was feeling great (and I did during the fast) and another was running an event that could change lives in a positive way – and maintain the results.

Where do I begin?

I decided to ask the person who had made the most change in my life in a short time, Sidra Zaidi, to work with me. She agreed – that was surprisingly easy – all I had to do was ask. Secondly, we need an idea. A few hours with Sidra saw the creation of The Journey To Empowerment.

Thirdly, we need a date – we quickly agreed that we could both do the 6th December and that it was better to do it sooner, rather than later. Next we needed a venue – it seemed like a daunting experience having had no dealings with this before. So, I put a plea on Facebook for help.

Within minutes two people had given me leads. One phone call later we had a room booked at a reasonable price. Finally, we needed to create some advertising material. That night a good friend spent two hours on Skype going through our advert with meticulous detail.

The result – within two days I had taken an idea and made it real. Furthermore, I had even called another friend and arranged to get it filmed for future marketing material. This was what is possible when I channelled my focus into the benefits of the fast and the extra energy that I had. In this time I felt no hunger – hydration is a great replacement.

Fortunately, during my fast there was a time limit on how long I had to do this for. As I have no intention of giving up anything I was happy to indulge in several puff pastry mince pies upon my completion. I did this experiencing taste like I never had before.

I feel better now than I have all year – and that's after my cake indulgence. Focus, balance, belief and action are an incredible combination.

How could you feel better right now?

The Key to Happiness from my 7 year-old Mentor

2009-10-30T11:21:00.000-07:00

Occasionally I have one or both of my nephews around to stay with me at the weekend, they are currently aged 5 and 7. This usually gives me the opportunity to regress a bit and have a lot of fun.

I get to play games and eat unhealthily for a day or two whilst they get the freedom to do pretty much what they like. As they are not ready to own the merits of eating healthily I have adopted their mentality whilst they are staying. Meanwhile, I get to pick their brains for the pearls of wisdom that they occasionally present.

I have a habit of asking them questions that I have yet to find an answer to and indeed probably never will. "What is the key to the universe?" and "What is the secret to life?" are things I have pondered for many hours.

Over the years I have asked them such questions and have been given answers that both astound and amuse. "Doing good farts," was an old favourite of them both in response to the above questions, for a good while.

Whilst sitting down for lunch last weekend I asked "What is the secret to everlasting happiness?" My eldest nephew, Connor, looked up and said "Look after yourself."

His tone was questioning, yet his response struck a chord with me. I knew that looking after myself was a good idea but I do not always do it. I do meditate. exercise and walk a lot "but I could do more," is a well rehearsed line that soon followed.

The tyranny of the word "but" suddenly came into play. In one second I had dismissed all of the good work that I do. But dismisses all of the content that has gone before it. It is dismissive, finite and pointless in a context like this.

I know that as far as health is concerned that I am in the higher reaches of the population in looking after myself. Using the word and, instead of but, is a much more productive linguistic structure after acknowledging something positive.

It is certain that I could do more to be healthier and look after myself better but (and this is a good context to use it) when I compare myself now to where I was last year I walk more, drink more water, eat healthier and exercise more. It is about momentum and mine has been in the right direction.

Most of my changes have been slight and manageable, without causing major or immediate shifts. However (a word that is virtually the same as but!) over time major shifts occur.

So, the lesson from Connor has deeper reaches. Looking after myself is not just about taking action to feel better it's about giving myself proper credit for the changes that I have made.

Part of this process is allowing myself to venture into less healthy practices occasionally, like eating occasional junk foods with my nephews. It is important for me to realize the lessons that I learnt whilst nursing. Namely, that how I speak to myself will have much more impact on my health than what I do to myself.

Only by becoming my own best friend will I ever be a truly healthy individual. The key to happiness is indeed looking after myself, by giving myself more credit for what I have done and being less harsh for what I haven't. It also helps to play a lot, laugh a lot and let loose

Pain Can Be The Path To Pleasure

2009-10-02T05:23:00.000-07:00

Last year I had been sailing along, ignoring my feelings and signs that my body had been giving me. I was so focussed on my work project that I had neglected almost everything and everyone else in my life.

I went on to experience an episode of acute angina (or a very sharp, stabbing pain radiating out from my heart - the symptoms of this episode were unmistakable). Then, in two very painful hours I ended my relationship with my girlfriend and watched my business venture collapse, along with my finances. My life as I knew it was swept from under me.

This led to a very dark and desolate place where only emptiness existed. I can honestly say that from this place I felt no emotion. After 3 days of meditating in this emptiness I came to many significant breakthroughs in my thinking. I was able to communicate to my family from a place of humility and understanding. I was also able to see how I had created everything that had brought me to that place. This realisation allowed me to take back my power and decide to focus on positive outcomes.

Through my time as a nurse I know that there are more people motivated by pain than by pleasure. If there is not enough pleasure in my life then it was because I hadn't experienced enough pain. Speak to an average 90 year old and they will explain what suffering really is. I had my health, I had freedom of choice and I had an opportunity to turn my life around.

Now, I feel empowered to not only make the positive changes in my own life but to inspire others to do the same. Having known the emptiness of disempowerment I now embrace the alternative and live life as a game.

It is my belief that if you do not have enough pleasure in your life then you have not had enough pain. By visualising how you see your life in 10 years time you may well be able to save yourself years of suffering. Alternatively, you may already be on the path to happiness - this can only be a good thing.

The Yin and Yang of a Good Wedding Celebration!

2009-09-08T09:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to Ireland to attend the wedding of a very good friend of mine. Weddings always bring together an interesting mix of people and this was no exception.

I have known the groom for over 16 years, along with many of his other friends. Some I have not seen for a few years now but it was not a consideration as we spent the day/night catching up with them. It would also be fair to say that I was not exactly shining in my status as a Health Consultant during this event as I toasted the happy couple - many times!

For me, health and wellbeing are not just about treating my body as a temple all of the time. Although I do this most of the time I am inclined to have glitches now and again. That said, what constitutes a health glitch? I have known fitness fanatics who collapsed and died, eventhough their bodies were temples their minds' were not.

The fact is that a healthy mind is at least as important as a healthy body, indeed the two cannot be separated when it comes to health. Catching up with good friends is one of the fastest restorative remedies available today. I had a great time, loved the occasion, the people and the entire weekend.

In attendance was a Sister, called Mary. She had spent her life dedicated to helping the homeless and must have been in her late 70's. This did not stop her from taking over the dance-floor with a humour and energy that left many half her age to shame. I smile every time I think of her in action.

Yes, I did start the next afternoon with a hangover after many hours of merriment at the wedding. This was nothing that several pints of water and a long walk could not remedy in a relatively short period of time. The rest of the weekend was spent with a friend taking life very easy indeed as "normal" service resumed.

So, I may not have had the healthiest weekend from the traditional definition of the word but I will smile every time that I think back to that weekend. The memories that I have will far outweigh any short-term glitches caused by alcoholic indulgence! It's a wonderful thing to have great friends and so many in one place at a time. How great life can be.

Feedback is essential to get what you love

2009-08-30T03:32:00.000-07:00

When I was a child, learning to walk, I was given so much encouragement and support that I thought nothing of the several hundred, even thousand, times that I fell as I learned. Indeed, the quote by Thomas Edison "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work" is particularly relevant.

The facts that we all learned how to walk, despite numerous falls and that Edison invented the lightbulb appear to get diluted as most of us get older. For many of us the words progress and learning are replaced with stagnation and failure. Why?

Because I am not considered as cute as I was when I was an infant, the voices of encouragement became less frequent. It has taken many years to turn up the volume on my internal voice and stop listening to the external voices that would crush my dreams and aspirations. Ultimately, life is a test of congruence - when I haven't been doing things that I love it has been very easy to listen to external voices that criticise me - my internal voice has then jumped on the bandwagon and I had become a master of self-sabotage.

However, having found Walk Innovation - something I love to do - processing feedback has become easier. All external voices that offer me feedback on how to do things better are gratefully received. All of those who wish to try and pin their own limiting beliefs and restrictions upon me are compassionately received. This has not always been the case but now it is. My life purpose involves helping people to move through their pain. The people who would give me the most pain (if I allowed them to) are the ones who need help the most. Knowing that I am living what I love makes it easy to deflect negativity of others and, if the situation allows, replace it with hope.

Anyone who would desire to crush the dreams and aspirations of others is put in your life as a guardian. They are there to test your faith in achieving your dreams and goals. Loving what you do will enable you to love all feedback. When this happens there is no longer positive and negative - just learning and understanding. To reach that place is a wonderful feeling. To get there you simply go for what you love - and keep going until you get there, regardless what happens on the way.

Connection and Blackberries

2009-08-19T18:56:00.000-07:00

On Monday I went for a long walk. This is something that I love to do. Since the weather was great it made it all the better.

Recently, I have run a couple of walkshops that have had a very natural theme to them. I asked "What do you love about nature to my fellow Walk Innovators. The results were eye-opening, to say the least.

Our group started to notice all of the wonderfully kept gardens in St Albans, we paddled in the stream, listened to Crickets, connected with nature and ate blackberries. Most surprisingly of all we noticed a tree that towers over the buildings near St Albans Town Centre. I had never noticed it before.

Despite the size of the tree and obvious longevity of it and my numerous hours spent in St Albans, over numerous years, I had not seen this magnificent tower of nature that stood above the buildings. What else have I not seen that has been standing right in front of me was the consideration that I had afterwards. The answer is - many things.

This simple metaphor has exploded a range of interventions that I had not noticed before, despite them being right in front of my face.

Nature can be a powerful metaphor for life when you walk your talk. It has certainly given me much food for thought - and much food to eat on Sunday - I do love freshly picked blackberries!

Chumbawamba

2009-08-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

In the immortal lines of the song by Chumbawamba a decade or so ago, "I get knocked down but I get up again - you ain't ever gonna keep me down...."

This is a wise philosophy for anyone who is pursuing their dreams or Life Purpose. I frequently have to remind myself of these words as I put the message of Walk Innovation out to the general public. It has been a long hard lesson in what doesn't work for me in the marketing arena over the past months in St Albans as only a few people have trickled into my events.

However, as Thomas Edison once said, "I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that don't work."

Pursuit of a Life Purpose is a quest of belief, congruence and persistence. Today I have been in contact with the local business agency, radio station and networking group. All have offered to help me publicise my events. This represents a nice step in the right direction.

Keeping focus on the bigger picture of what Walk Innovation aims to do - helping attendees to help themselves, have fun and help the planet for our future generations - is where I always come back to. Nobody has achieved great things without challenges. It is how we respond to such challenges that will ultimately dictate the quality of our lives.

Right now I have had a huge rush as a downward turn of life's rollercoaster hits the bottom. Fortunately, the next part of the ride necessitates a swift movement up - I'm ready for that. Indeed, it just adds to life's rich tapestry.

Transforming negativity into hope, focus, purpose and action is a perpetual path. It may not always happen instantly but it always happens to me. The alternative is misery and my years as a nurse have shown me where that path leads - not for me thanks!

As long as I still have my health I am a happy man. It is an unfortunate truth that many people may never realise this until their health has gone. It will never be enough to make them happy when they have good health but it will certainly compound their misery when they do not.

Being grateful for what we have is the easiest route towards changing stress into happiness. Alternatively, you could just complain to someone about life's trials and tribulations - this is a great way to drain the energy of those who you care to share such stories with.

A Weekend in The Garden of Eden

2009-07-20T05:34:00.000-07:00

Magic is a wonderful thing. For years I have been bamboozled by the mystic genius of the likes of Houdini, David Copperfield, David Blaine, Derren Brown and Tommy Cooper. The escapism to our imagination is a most wonderful thing.

This weekend, through a most serendipitous chain of events, I landed myself in the garden of Darren Eden. The venue may have been a hotel room but all sorts were blossoming within those who attended.

Darren has nurtured a community of magicians, showing them how to tap into their intuition.

The simplicity of his message is the power of it – focus on what you love and take all obvious steps towards it.

When you spend time with magicians, synergistic wonder occurs. When you look for love from external sources you give away your power. When you nurture it from within, by loving yourself, then magical things occur.

Watching magic in action is the best way to develop your own. I learned many things about my life during this weekend.

I learned that football is a wonderful metaphor for my life and there are so many obvious steps towards getting what I love that I'm almost embarrassed to admit that I hadn't seen them.

I have never been the greatest footballer but I have always loved the sport. I have been injured, hospitalised, beaten, kicked, punched and head-butted over the years. I have had more near misses than I can remember and suffered some humiliating moments. However, I have also experienced some incredible highs, raised my game, played some amazing football and inspired team mates to new levels, way beyond what I thought was possible. I have conquered adversity and played in some shocking conditions.

The fact is that I have always entered each new game as a new beginning. Like watching a different movie – I never know what I will be facing and how my character will be tested. I love the excitement, unpredictability and team dynamic that is offered. Most importantly, as I begin each new game I swiftly forget everything that has happened in previous games.

Because I love football, the highs and lows are part of the rich tapestry that is the beauty of sport, life and what I love. Transcribing the same mindset to my business has given me a quantum shift in thought process. Previously I had been letting tough learning curves affect my mindset at the beginning of a new day. From now on each new day is a new game and a new set of goals.

Through focusing on my business, which is something that I love, I'll now be starting each new day as a new game. My goal is a straight forward one – score more than I concede. If I don't – learn, move on and get ready for the next game.

Life is simple – focus on what you love and take the obvious steps towards it. Today's steps involve writing this as a reminder to myself that I will be playing for the rest of my life.

When a Woman You Don't Know Suddenly Gives You Flowers.....

2009-07-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am currently feeling most grateful to life and pretty much all aspects of it. How long this perpetual feel-good buzz will last, I don't know. I do know that I like where it's taken me over the past few weeks.

Much of my focus for the past few weeks has been on Gratitude. I have taken time to phone and write to friends and family who have changed my life in a positive way. It has proved to be a most powerful and rewarding exercise.

A few days ago I arrived home to find a note through my door telling me that a bunch of flowers had been left around the back of my house. By my back door was indeed a large bunch of flowers. Unfortunately, they were not for me. The address was mine but that's where it ended.

Being a little dubious of flowers as a gift I wondered what was going on. Despite the romance that goes with them, the thought of giving someone flowers as a token of my love and/or appreciation fills me with confusion. Why give such a token when the roots have been cut off and they will soon be dead? It's not a good metaphor for a lasting friendship/relationship. Maybe that accounts for my single status! The ephemeral nature of flowers has never endeared me to them as a gift of love.

I phoned the flower shop and spoke to a very nice lady who was most thankful that I pointed out the mistake and said that she would send someone to collect them. I went out that afternoon and returned to my house this morning to find another card through my door, informing me of another flower delivery at my back door.

I opened the door to find a potted lavender plant from the girl at the shop. I phoned and thanked them before planting it in my mini garden. I received a big thank you, tips on how to grow it and a huge smile as my flowers now had roots.

Such a serendipitous occurrence started my day well and it has just gone on to get better and better as the day goes on. My profound thanks go to Cindy and Samantha from (the oh so appropriately named) Perfect Moments Florist in St Albans - I highly recommend their services and the feel-good factor of being grateful

Magic, Fairy's and Breaking Comfort Zones

2009-07-04T02:24:00.000-07:00

I have just spent 11 days training with my business mentor, Clinton Swaine. This has been a vastly rewarding and beneficial experience. Many concepts are taught as he hones his students business and presentation skills.

One of the sections involved us dressing up in different costumes to add different aspects to our stage presence. We became 12 different archetypes during this 3 day section, including executive, motivator, commander, majician, majesty, channeller, pirate and fairy.

Much as the course taught us many things about breaking through our comfort zones the highlight of this section came when about 30 students, dressed as fairy's, went dancing on the lawn of the hotel where the training was based.

As we danced we were seen by a small child, no more than 3 years old. His wide-eyed expression was priceless and made the experience truly magical. Convincing this young lad that fairy's and magic aren't real may take somne doing!

Letting loose, breaking comfort zones and having fun is part of life's rich tapestry. I encourage all of you to give it a go one day!

What is love?

2009-06-12T04:31:00.000-07:00

As I grew up my understanding of love was that it was a feeling of peace, connection and timeless flow that lifted one's spirits to soaring heights. However, on a more practical level, based on the fact that I loved my parents, love was an evolving package of mixed emotions that I experienced when I loved someone else whose mood kept changing. If you truly love someone you will accept any emotional state that they experience – and deal with consequences of any actions that result from it.

At a less technical level – unconditional love has no bounds.

I have often contemplated what love is and had some very different insights and opinions on the subject as time evolved. A friend once told me that it was a short-term hormonal imbalance. Whilst this has amused me for many years I think that it is a good illustration of many people's reality of love.

Love in its purest form is an overwhelming connection with someone or something. The more connections we have, the more love we allow into our lives. There may be those of you thinking that this is easier said than done – you're right. Only those of you who truly release fear by loving your past, will experience more love.

There are some things that are fact....

- Bad things happen
- It is our choice as to what is good or bad
- You have the power to choose to be happy
- Allow yourself to release your past and future and you will be in the now - this is all that is real

True love could be considered in several different ways. For some it is the happy emotional state that appears in fleeting moments of passion. For others it may be a perpetual state of connection with all that is. Either way, nobody has the same definition of what love is.

For many years I had no idea of what love was and became a bit confused. It sounded good but it hurt so much. It's capricious nature was all too confusing for my limited understanding of the subject. I thought that maybe I was just dysfunctional and that love was an alien concept to me. Fortunately, I adapted accordingly and proceeded with my life. The insight that this experience has given me is priceless.

Every experience in my life has led me to where I am now, as has yours. Do you accept the gift of all that has happened in your life to become a person of power? Power to take control of your life, love yourself and give to others by looking after yourself first.

Until you are truly grateful for all that you have you will not have love. Love is a decision – in any given moment. It's a decision to be grateful for what you have and to accept what you don't. Just by being grateful we send out positive energy, which affects everyone around us. By writing to someone and thanking them for being in your life you can transform their day. By telling them yourself you instantly transform both of your lives.

When you love someone you will accept anything they do – the moment that you don't – your love has become conditional. This is an impure love and is based on fear.

Since it is not within your power to change others at will – why not focus all of your attention on the one person who you can change at will - you. Every moment is new and you can decide to be anyone you want at any time.

The ability to really love yourself is the key to unconditional love. Although this may sound pompous or even arrogant, it is fundamental. Personally, the phrase "love yourself" had many negative connotations from my school days. These had to be released in order that I could love myself again.

A simple exercise is to close your eyes, take some deep breaths, smile and send love to your past. Thank your past for creating you and allowing you to love. Do this for as long as you like.

In the ever-evolving game of love you will find it easiest when you love yourself first. When this happens you may well find that magical things start to happen. I wish you all much love in your quest to accept yourself – unconditionally.

Community Spirit

2009-06-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

What would you be prepared to do for your friends?

For those who have read the E-Myth - I wandered into the world of business after having an Entrepreneurial seizure. For those who haven't read the E-Myth - I decided to sack my boss and march into the world of business with no training or experience of what happens next. I knew that I could provide excellent services and that I would be better at it when freed from the dogma of other people's perceptions of how I should go about my business.

The reality was that I had no idea of what running a business was and spent over two years in the very harsh school of the idiots guide of how not to run a business. Indeed, I didn't even have a business as all of my services could only be performed by me - this is a job, not a business.

My major breakthrough, apart from reading the E-Myth, was to set up a community project through Walk Innovation. Through running a series of free events I have attracted people into my life who have helped me immensely. Walk Innovation has clearly given attendees many insights into their life, positive experiences and connections - who have quickly become friends. The support, enthusiasm and time that has been donated so kindly by those at my events has been quite incredible.

I have made mistakes to the tune of over £60,000 over the past two years and watched my life savings float away. Only the belief that I was doing the right thing prevented me from going back into my comfort zone and getting a job with someone else, resigning myself to the restriction of somebody else's rules. Every cell in my body knows that Walk Innovation is the correct path for me - even when my bank balance didn't. I now look at this as money well spent as I witness the wonder of community spirit unfold. The advice, help and direction that I have been freely given in the past weeks has been priceless to me and would have certainly cost several thousands of pound if I was to seek it on a professional basis.

The universe is truly a wonderful place now that I have allowed myself to receive it's gifts. Walk Innovation has provided an environment for people to connect - not just on a professional networking basis but as friends as well. A good business contact will do whatever they can for you as long as you pay for it. A good friend will use the law of reciprocity to do whatever it takes to make life better for you. This is something truly incredible.

This blog is dedicated to everyone who has helped me on my journey so far and to those who will in the future. I promise to do whatever I can to return the favour.

Much love,

Adam

When the Why is Big Enough the How Will Unfold as We Take Action

2009-06-01T04:23:00.000-07:00

What happens when we ask questions like "How can I help the planet?"

I asked this question a while back and it led to me dispensing with a car, walking more and creating a local community through Walk Innovation to help people to clarify their purpose in life. It is quite incredible to me how many people dwell in a life of unhappiness with no real purpose or focus in their lives.

How exactly this movement will lead to me helping the planet on a more global scale - I'm not yet sure. However, one of the concepts taught at Walk Innovation is : When the why is big enough the how takes care of itself as we take action towards our purpose.

In a nutshell - worrying about the seemingly impossible nature of one person sparking a movement for planetary sustainability will not achieve anything positive. Keeping the belief, maintaining focus and taking action towards my goal is enough. The rest will unfold as it is meant to.

Through this blog you can witness my journey unfold. I would also recommend that you set yourself a purpose that is so big that it scares you - that's when you know that you're on your path towards happiness.

2009-05-21T03:50:00.000-07:00

What is Purpose and Why Do We Need It?

2009-05-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

As a nurse I spent many years working with people in the twilight of their lives. Some were not too happy with the cards that life had dealt them. Others were the embodiment of joy, awareness and compassion. What was the difference between them?

The recurrent thing that was present in those who appeared happier was a greater purpose in life. Some people knew exactly what their gift were - and how to use them. So, what is purpose?

According to Dictionary.com, purpose is...

pur⋅pose

[pur-puhs] Show IPA noun, verb, -posed, -pos⋅ing.

–noun

1.	the reason for which something exists or is done, made, used, etc.

2.	an intended or desired result; end; aim; goal.

3.	determination; resoluteness.

4.	the subject in hand; the point at issue.

5.	practical result, effect, or advantage: to act to good purpose.

–verb (used with object)

6.	to set as an aim, intention, or goal for oneself.

7.	to intend; design.

8.	to resolve (to do something): He purposed to change his way of life radically.

–verb (used without object)

9.	to have a purpose.

If, as suggested, purpose is the reason why something exists then surely it is our duty to know exactly what our purpose is. If we don't know why we exist then things are likely to get confusing, upsetting or even dangerous. If we are not focusing on our purpose and our gifts then we are probably focusing on our irritations and faults.

It's been an interesting few weeks for me. I have been stretched on many fronts as I piece together the elements of my vision for Walk Innovation with the practicalities of operating in the world of business.

The fact is that during my career as a nurse I just hadn't considered entering the business world and what it would entail. Fortunately, I have been focused on my purpose in life and why it is important for me to keep going, regardless of any obstacles.

I have been asked on numerous occasions "What is Walk Innovation?" I have yet to give a consistent answer as I don't believe that it can be described. Through contemplating this question for many hours I finally feel that I can express Walk Innovation through words alone.

Walk Innovation is a process where gratitude and positive focus meets action. Our ability to get results in our life is directly proportionate to our belief in our life's purpose. When we have a big enough purpose it is possible to be totally present in the moment much more often. This state of presence is the key to loving life.

When we strip away all of the filters and negative programming that has gone into our subconsciousness there is only love. Love comes in the shape of all the things that we have to be grateful for. Here is a list of things that I am grateful for right now....

My family and friends, who have supported me through many testing times and taught me numerous lessons throughout my life. The fun and laughter that I experience regularly. The times that have stretched me to my limit and forced me to find resources from within that I never knew I had. The complete collapse of my business, personal relationship, finances and happiness last year. This brought me the most amazing insights into my own life that have catapulted me on my journey. The resulting awareness and congruence of my purpose have left a trail of positive outcomes and resolutions.

I am grateful for the traveling that I have done and for the conditions that I live in. Having food, shelter and choice of how to spend my time. The sun is out today and when I focus I can hear the distant singing of birds. My health is good and I'm feeling great at the moment. The beauty of the trees and plants as I look outside is a gift.

Of course, I could list the things that are not yet right in my life, which I'm sure could make an impressive list. However, this is not where I choose to put my focus in this moment in time. Instead I choose to see the beauty and wonder of life. I choose to set myself a purpose of bringing together a global community of people who will discover how to love their lives through the Walk Innovation process.

This blog entry represents the start of a journey. I know my purpose and it's about helping myself through helping and connecting others. Walk Innovation works and I am excited to watch it unfold. It will not necessarily be the most easy task but it will unfold somehow. I don't know how but I don't need to because when the why is big enough the how will unfold as action is taken towards it.

The difference between those who love their life when they get old and those that don't is the ability to live in the moment and accept the potential gifts that every given moment presents us. Whether that be through a compliment or the appreciation of the wonder and beauty surrounding us.

Put very simply, gratitude + purpose = Living in the moment + Happiness

First Class - And Hold The Train!!

2009-04-21T15:20:00.000-07:00

Did you ever have an experience where you knew that everything appeared to be going right?

I have noticed lately that since I gained more insight into my life and what had been setting me back that a series of things have happened that appear to indicate that I am on the right track. Over the past week it appears that all of my train connections are working out perfectly.

I arrived at the station last week and the train pulled up. There was no way that I would be able to buy a ticket in time and get on it so I relaxed. I even had a chat for a few minutes with the ticket officer about my best route options. A few minutes later I walked onto the platform to find people standing at the doors, anxiously looking to see what the hold-up was. I have no idea what held that train up but what I do know is that seconds after me boarding it the doors closed and off we went. I hadn't even registered that the train had been waiting at the platform all this time.

This could be seen as just plain luck (I tend to be lucky a lot of the time). A few days later I saw a train pull up and I had been playing football. I wanted to get home and it looked unlikely that I would catch the train. I ran but just as I made my way down the steps to the platform the doors closed and it looked like I'd missed my chance. As I stood on the platform contemplating a half hour wait in my football kit, I was informed that one of the doors had inexplicably stuck. A member of staff had to walk up the platform and shut in manually, mentioning to me that I would be able to board the train.

The last train I caught was delayed by over 40 minutes. However, I arrived 39 minutes after it was supposed to arrive and watched it pull up as I walked down to the platform. This was the third incident in under a week of delays working to my advantage - so I now feel compelled to write about it!

Another phenomenon that I have noticed on my local train service (First Capital Connect) is that there is a First Class Section on the trains that is strangely abandoned most of the time. I usually head straight for the first class cabin and find that I am frequently the only passenger on it, even when the train is busy.

I find it quite incredible how most people look at the carriage and turn away. I have never paid any extra for my ticket and never been questioned about sitting in first class. Furthermore, I'm not even sure if I should be paying any extra. It just so happens that I am paying significantly less!

I had a friend come to stay with me a couple of weeks ago and she was upset that she'd lost her Network Rail Card. I didn't even know what it was. She explained that it gave her a third off all fares as long as they were over £10. I'd never even heard of such a card. Since I had been paying almost £15 for an off-peak travelcard into London and over £20 for a peak travelcard, I now pay only £10, or £14, instead of £15 or £21.

If she had not lost her card, I would still not know about the benefits of a network railcard. It only cost me £20 and I have already saved almost double that in the first 2 weeks - and it's valid for a year.

My connections have all been smooth, my timings have been great, even delays are working perfectly to my advantage and the people that I have been meeting lately have been sending positive energy my way in abundance.

What has happened to me this week Luck? Positive state of mind? Divine intervention? All of the above? I don't know - but I like it!

Reach for the Sky Walker!

2009-04-19T01:51:00.000-07:00

Isn't it funny how the people that I seem to meet are influenced by the thoughts that I'm having at the time! I spent a lot of yesterday laughing and, sure enough, my e-mail was filled with forwarded jokes and links and the tone of the responses on my various networking sites was very light-hearted.

Then enter the part that was slightly deeper within the realms of my subconscious - a chat with a lady who I'd met by accident at a recent event that I'd attended. Strangely, I'd been experimenting with a modeling project that I have been on. It had been suggested by a friend, who happened to be organising the event, that for one night during a workshop about financial freedom that I become "Star Barefoot Sky Walker". I took off my shoes and socks and wandered around the event gauging people's responses. They were interesting to say the least!

The hardest thing for me that evening was stopping myself from laughing out loud as I noted the various reactions that my new identity elicited. Explaining that I was a multi-dimensional being who had no need for shoes or socks was a most interesting experiment (which on another day may well have earned me a visit by the nearest crisis team!) I sat on the front row and it was clear that I had attracted much attention!

Stepping out of my comfort zone has been something that has been recurrent since I started modeling other people. This incident was particularly interesting. Knowing that I would be considered as an outsider by most of the individuals in the room was a strange feeling, yet there was one lady in the room who did not judge me on the fact that I was clearly different and claiming some strange talents, to say the least.

I revealed my real identity to her at the end of the evening and we have stayed in touch since. Yesterday I spoke with her on the phone and it soon came up that I had not been playing at 100% in my life and with my life purpose. "Why haven't you stepped into your power yet?" was one of the questions that I was asked. I had no answer that made any sense.

I know what I am here to do - spread Walk Innovation to the masses. I know that this will involve me attracting people who share my vision (to create a global community of like-minded individuals determined to achieve wealth, health and happiness through the Walk Innovation process - and have some fun along the way.) I also know that it will involve me stepping up and way outside of my comfort zone (thank you Star Barefoot Sky Walker for helping me do that).

All of that said - why hadn't I stepped into my power? I had no answer then and all I can offer now is that I hadn't truly considered it. After all, the quality of our lives is directly proportional to the quality of the questions that we ask ourselves. It's time for me to step into my power and make things happen. This blog is a testament of my accountability to make it happen and I will.

Fortunately, this still allows me to have fun in abundance. I have many more characters to model along the way. On 9th of May I will be donning a new outfit, adopting a new personality and going into London too meet my friends as they do the same. We will finish the evening at a roller-disco (something I've never done before.) One more challenge to keep me on my toes (or skates as will be the case.)

What would happen if you truly stepped into your power today and believed that you were capable of anything?

Dealing With Challenges

2009-04-14T03:45:00.000-07:00

The last two days have been incredibly challenging for me. Over the past 7 weeks I have been spending a great deal of time and energy in getting my new Walk Innovation website up and running. It has involved daily liaison with my web designer, who was based in the United Arab Emirates.

After 7 weeks of continued e-mailing and tinkering the website was almost perfect and my designer had told me that I would be able to easily edit the site. Originally, I had hoped that the site would be finished within a week and then realised that my needs were not being translated into actions.

As a trainer of NLP it is always important to remember that the meaning of all communication is the response you get. What I thought were easy to understand instructions were continually being ignored or misinterpreted by my web designer. Only through continued repetition of exactly what I wanted did I get most of what I did want done.

Then came the bombshell - my designer had to move country and would not be available to help for at least 2 weeks. This led to a very rushed couple of days and an almost correct website.

I then spent 2 days leaving flyers in every shop and establishment in the locality as I could, to get the word out. After this I decided that I needed to change some details on the site in the absence of my designer. Not being familiar with Wordpress I managed to lock myself out of the site (the reset password address obviously went to my designer's in-box and not mine.) So, I was locked out of my site and it had all gone horribly wrong. All queries were sending back an auto-responder message that we would get back to you as soon as possible - yet not reaching my in-box. I have no idea how many potential clients are still waiting for a reply that will never come. Great start for a new business venture!

I watched 7 weeks of work undone in 1 second. This is a horrible feeling.

My solution was to hold my head in my hands for a few minutes and let the reality of what had just happened sink in. Then I realised that it was my duty to transform the energy of this situation. My first task was to transform my mood. A quick click onto Youtube for some Eddie Izzard, Robin Williams, Monty Python and a bizarre Spanish lesson with a twist soon had me laughing out loud. I then meditated, asking the universe for help.

Within minutes of finishing my meditation a friend of mine, Loren, who also happens to be a web designer, phoned me! She told me that we were going out for the afternoon and she would call by my house later. Clearly, Carlsberg don't do fortunate synchronicity, but if they did.......

I was picked up, introduced to her friend, Natasha, and taken off to a lovely waffle house, sitting outside for a wonderful lunch. I was then taken to a favourite spot of mine, Tiki's Cafe, in Hemel Hempstead. The owner, Erkan, is an incredible man and has a very intuitive connection with energy. He sat down and spoke to me about a couple of niggling issues that I had, nicely buried in my unconscious mind. His questioning soon brought them to the surface.

A little tweaking brought these out and made me realise how I had been holding myself back with my business. Simultaneously, Loren put up a temporary page on my website that stopped people from thinking that I would be getting back to them, when I wouldn't. She then agreed to redesign the site for me.

In a few hours of magic my moment, minute, hour, day, week, month, year and life were transformed. After all, it is only the moment that we find ourselves in that dictates the life that we have had and will have. I'm tuned into the magic of the universe at the moment, I am grateful to my friends and I love my life.

The gift of a situation will rarely be visible when the proverbial hits the fan. It is our belief that it is coming and congruence with our life path that expedites the journey from trauma to bliss.

I'm choosing bliss right now.

It's Not the Destination - It's the Journey That Counts

2009-04-08T16:35:00.000-07:00

What great weather we are getting at the moment. At this time of year it is a pleasure to be out and about. Over the past two days I have walked over 20 miles and witnessed numerous things of beauty.

Not having a car has some distinct advantages when the weather is this good. Today, as I walked to meet a client, I was able to witness the numerous flowers in bloom and the occasional butterfly brightening up the path.

It is in such moments of gratitude for the things that are sometimes taken for granted that life becomes enriched. I can honestly say that, apart from the obvious physical benefits that go with walking, I'm feeling fantastic at the moment and look forward to utilising any further good weather that I should be gifted with.

Ultimately, for me, it is the small things in life that make the biggest difference and I am feeling very grateful at the moment.

The Power of Being Someone Else

2009-03-29T10:59:00.000-07:00

Reverend Soulseeker and Robin Wood prepare for a day out in London

Yesterday I organised a day out with my family from Frontier Trainings. We are a group of entrepreneurs who are brought together by Clinton Swaine. He teaches business games and gets his points across with the use of an impressive wardrobe and many different characters - that he calls faculty members.

During some of his advanced courses a few weeks ago I started adopting a few alter egos of my own and felt how different it felt to wear the clothes of someone else and think differently. During the training I became a Buddhist monk, a hippie, a super hero and a Frenchman. Each character involved me thinking through a different set of values, a different attitude and a different voice. Each new character transformed my presence in the room and on stage.

Not only did this prove to be interesting, it also proved to be a lot of fun. So much so that other members of the group started to reinvent themselves. It was a great exercise in being who we wanted to be and inventing new faculty members that had the traits that we wanted to develop.

Yesterday I sent out a message to the attendees of the training and over 20 turned up in London yesterday dressed in an alter-ego. Our mission was to spread love and have fun around London. Never before have so many people wanted to have their photo taken with me in one day. I became Robin Woods, a character intent on justice and freedom. On a day that a bigger march of protest about the G-20 summit happened - we decided to march against the flow of the rest of the marchers and focus on love.

Singing Monty Python on the tube and seeing the responses of the other commuters was particularly fun and seeing so many people smile back and join in was the recipe for an uplifting day out. Witnessing the transformations in the personalities of the group was incredible - not to mention the creative conversations as people got into character and let their imagination run away.

I can honestly say that this was one of the best days of my life and I will be having plenty more. For anyone reading this - the next one will be on the 9th May, in London. If you want to create an alter ego, feel positive and have a lot of fun then come along and witness the power of positive energy.

How to Reinvent Yourself

2009-03-04T13:00:00.000-08:00

On Sunday evening I completed 3 of the most phenomenal courses that I have ever been on. During the 12 days I spent with Clinton Swaine I learned the true beauty of modelling. Not just as a paper exercise - as dressing up, living, acting, thinking and talking like someone else.

Clinton demonstrates lessons in business for entrepreneurs through games. That's right, 12 days of playing games and learning a host of phenomenal lessons - through experiencing them.

Part of Clinton's approach involves dressing up as different characters, giving them their unique story and values and acting them out. His unique wardrobe has provided a whole host of colourful aliases over the 12 day slot.

After experiencing all sorts of differing emotions and shortfalls during my opening days, I decided to join in the fun and visit the fancy dress shop. This led to the invention of several new identities, including hippy Ric who didn't stress about anything. The tonal shift and laid back chain of thought that went with this character transformed my stage presence.

One day I donned a super-hero outfit and invented Rocky Righteous. Suddenly, the usually laid back, easy going Adam was quick to step in, volunteer his opinion and stand his ground. It was a liberating feeling. So much so that the various members of attendees all started to reinvent themselves - with incredible results.

The event was so liberating that we will be meeting in London later this month wearing fancy dress outfits for our new alter egos. I have to say that it is something that I fully look forward to,

If you could be someone else for the day who would it be - and what traits would they have. How would it feel to act like them for a day? My experience says that it is one of the best things that anyone can do to increase their social flexibility and get out of their own way. Call your friends now and organise an alter-ego night out. This will probably turn a few heads but as a good friend once told me - it's better to get looked over than to get overlooked!

Snow Change

2009-02-09T12:54:00.000-08:00

I sat in the Village Hall this Saturday wondering if anyone would turn up. The weather had left many icy and treacherous paths and, surely, people would be thinking twice about going out for a walk.

However, I had three people turn up who insisted on witnessing the delights of Walk Innovation. After a slippery start we found ourself in a field where ours were the only human footprints. It turned out to be an almost magical journey as the walk took us to exactly where we needed to go, in order to get the results.

It didn't really surprise me that out of seemingly adverse walking conditions I witnessed my best walk yet. Although this process is far more desirable in the Summer - it's infinitely more rewarding in the Winter. After all, anyone prepared to walk their talk when everyone else stays in is clearly serious about getting results.

My congratulations go out to those who attended. Also, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce two regular attendees and facilitators for the next event on 21st Feb, Helen and Avess (top picture). It is my great pleasure to hand over the reigns for this event as I will be away. I am sure that anyone attending is in for a real treat.

The Feel Good Factor

2009-02-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

It really is the small acts of kindness that can turn a day in the right direction. A couple of days ago I pulled into a car-park, in St Albans. As I exited my car a kind gentleman who was walking past asked me if I wanted his parking ticket. It had just over an hour left on it - exactly what I needed.

As I walked back to my car with the ticket I was offered another ticket, by another thoughtful chap. I will always hand my tickets to those who are just arriving if they have any time left on them, or just stick them to the ticket machine for the next person. It feels great to know that this practice works both ways and enhances my faith in the community spirit.

When we act in a way that serves ourselves through serving others - everybody wins.

Happiness is Contagious - Are you Ready to Infect Someone With It?

2009-01-28T18:08:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday saw another Walk Innovation event held in Shenley. Twelve people turned out to find their respective paths and walk their talk. As this method is being pioneered by the attendees of each event - there is a sense of excitement as suggestions reign in to enhance the process and add to each event.

It never ceases to amaze me how the path we walk bears so many synchronicities to the way we talk. I observed one group on Saturday as the issue unfolded. This led us into the middle of a muddy field. However, as the questioning process led towards solutions - the path improved - as did the awareness of where we were for our leader on the walk.

It pleases me greatly to see how people's issues can shift in just a short time.

I was asked during one of my events whether I felt it was self-indulgent for people to spend an hour and a half talking about themselves. It is my opinion that we owe it to ourselves - and the people we love - to talk about ourselves. When we talk about the things that cause us problems to someone who doesn't know us - we get a unique insight on the issue(s). This leads to us being happier within ourselves. Research has proved that being happy not only effects us and our family - it spreads to our friends, the friends' of our friends and the friends' of our friends' friends.

In short - happiness is contagious.

Walking Wellbeing in Shenley

2009-01-18T15:54:00.000-08:00

Last week I ran my first event this year, in sunny Shenley. Five people turned up in -4 degrees to go walking. It proved to be a great success. Even in sub-zero temperatures it is possible to have fun, get great results and witness the beauty that Shenley has to offer.

It makes me realise the true wonder in the simplicity of walking and even my nephews are appreciating how a walk can yield many wonderful benefits. It is my firm belief that the simplest things will get the best results.

Living in the Moment

2009-01-07T03:32:00.000-08:00

When learning about transformative practices there are certain things that are recurrent, regardless how diverse the teaching is. One of these is living in the moment - or total presence. This state is where we cease to consider our past or future and truly experience what is happening to us at any given time.

Because of the human capacity to trawl the past and ponder the future for most of our lives, such moments are usually few and far between. Meditation will help, as will being captivated by certain people. There are many such moments in life and certain triggers to help to recognise them. Being aware of how our body feels, what is going on around us and concentration on the task at hand are all factors to help us to fully experience pure awareness.

Last night I played football for the first time this year. I play on most Tuesday nights but have not played for 3 weeks because of the festive break. The first run-out after Christmas is always a little more demanding after the festivities.

As I arrived at the outdoor venue the temperature showed -9 degrees C. I can honestly say that playing under such conditions is an exercise in pure awareness. From the initial burning cold on my hands to the frozen sweat and perspiration on the hairs of my eyebrows and nose. It provided a great incentive to keep running.

There were no opportunities for my attention to drift anywhere else except my place on that football pitch. It was an exercise in total presence and has given me a timely reminder of the importance of such a state.

The small patch of sweat which froze to my back after the game was as comprehensive a warm-down as I've ever had. Pure awareness has many different faces - recognising and appreciating them is the key to experiencing more such moments.

New Year's Resolutions - Keeping them Real

2009-01-04T07:26:00.000-08:00

It is, once again, that time of year where many people commit themselves to New Year's resolutions - as I have done myself in many previous years. I've heard some good ones so far. One of my friends has committed to not smoking indoors - in order to cut down their smoking. Partially effective in the winter - not so much in the summer!

We all have the best of intentions when we make such commitments. However, many such resolutions are unrealistic within current models of the world and will just lead to failure, disillusionment and guilt. This will will result in many people paying attention to the voice within that says how hopeless they are and that's not too nice. When undertaking such lifestyle changes it is important to have enough leverage to sustain the process. For one friend it was a simple comment about how unpleasant he smelled after smoking - put to him in less polite terminology by another friend of mine. This one remark created an instant smoking cessation - which has now been the case for over two years.

In my case the motivation comes from the fact that I am a Health Consultant and it is my duty to lead by example. I will often be tempted by junk foods and my title is all that is standing in my way of indulgence. Fortunately, my resolutions are not absolute, they are based on balance. Because of this I allow myself occasional less than nutritional treats. This was the case over the New Year as I met up with many friends in Ireland, partaking in one or two local, alcoholic interventions at a delightful public house. What this does is ensure that there is enough latitude within the resolutions that I make to allow me to make many positive, long-term changes within my life - without the restrictions which led me to failure in the past.

So, for all of you who have started a New Year's resolution and are struggling with the new you - be kind enough to yourself to allow any positive change to occur at a rate that is sustainable for you - for the rest of your life. For some, giving up lifetime habits can occur in a moment of intense leverage. For those who don't yet have that - make the resolutions proportional to your belief that you can maintain them. Alternatively, get someone to coach you to a place where that is possible.

We all have the right tools to make changes that will improve our lives forever - we just haven't had the right questions if we are not making those changes now.

What question(s) should you be asking yourself in order to get the results that you need right now?

Christmas Comes Early

2008-12-27T11:22:00.000-08:00

Sometimes serendipity just presents itself. Earlier this year I had an article published by High Spirit magazine. It was a good feeling to see myself in a magazine and see my story in print. It was about my journey into Reiki.

At the time I submitted two other articles and heard nothing back about them being published. However, recently I received contact from the magazine and they want to publish one of the other articles that I wrote. They had kept it in their archives, unbeknown to me.

The article that I wrote involved an incident on a trampoline with my nephew, Connor. It happened over a year ago and had looked like he was seriously injured - and then something happened that was quite out of the ordinary, which confirmed the power of the human mind for me - and him. The incident demonstrated that in crisis situations we are all capable of finding resources that we never knew we had.

I hadn't realised just how excited Connor would be when he found out that he would be appearing in the magazine's February edition. For some people their 15 minutes comes early! As did Christmas for the young lad.

Resource management, magic, beards and cookies

2008-12-22T05:22:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it is easy to ignore the opportunities or magic that stare one in the face. This week, on my Santa, leaflet-delivery campaign around the neighbourhood I dressed up as Santa, once again, and prepared to go out. Having just broken up from school my nephew, Connor, decided that he wanted to go out with me - and he wanted to dress as Santa as well.

This led to a trip into Borehamwood to see what we could find. On a pre-Christmas market day it was pretty busy. All of the main stores had no more Santa suits of any description. We had all but given up as we walked down the high street and back towards the car.

I then noticed a shop that was closing down. They had minimal stock and I couldn't see any immediately obvious Santa suits. However, tucked in the corner were the final 3 junior costumes. Junior Santa was unleashed in that moment.

I took Connor to pass out some leaflets with me. It was something that he took to like a duck to water. His genuine excitement at meeting new people was a refreshing angle on how to approach door-to-door encounters.

After a tentative start on the first few houses he soon fell into his flow. He handed my flyers to all that answered the door, connecting with everyone. I have no doubt that he added leverage to my message and he made the process much more fun than it already was for me. Watching him connect with small children, who just looked on in amazement, was a magical experience.

Cars and even buses beeping and people waving as we walked down the road brought about a bit more magic.

One funny event was being spotted by a group of Connor's friends, claiming that I was not the real Santa. As we walked down the road I was pursued by this group of 5-6 year-olds claiming that I couldn't be real because my beard wasn't real and I wasn't fat enough. They advised me that I needed to eat a lot more cookies to achieve the weight that would make me look more real.

I'm not sure that the cookie, crash weight-gain advice will be enough to give me sufficient authenticity between now and Christmas. However, I will know to model the cookie monster next year and start growing a beard now if I'm ever going to convince the more shrewd members of the community of my seasonal status.

As for Connor - all he wants to know is when we can go out and deliver more leaflets. A better intervention for a new business has surely yet to be discovered.

Another Day in the Life of an Icon

2008-12-18T18:16:00.000-08:00

Being an individual who likes to walk and bring a smile or two to the faces of those around me, I'm always looking to do so. As I have a local event starting off in my home village of Shenley, in Hertfordshire, I decided to deliver a few flyers and let a few people know what I'm doing - dressed as Santa.

Having never done any door to door deliveries since a paper round when I was 10, this was always going to be an interesting affair. Since over half of the houses that I went to were empty it was a bit of a lottery.

Some mothers were in, with their small children, and that provided plenty of smiles all around. I also received a few worried looks - after all, I'm sure that it's not every day that Santa turns up on their doorstep telling them about a wellbeing event at the local village hall. It was particularly ironic for those houses with the "Santa, please stop here" signs planted outside numerous front doors - be careful what you ask for!

For the most part I received very friendly responses and had some great chats. Of course, one group of teenage chaps were not so reciprocal as I wished them a merry Christmas, responding with "Santa - you w****r!" Even this brought a smile to my face as the ghost of Christmas past came back to visit - I was no angel as a teenager either!

Everyone else who I came across walking gave me a warm smile and drivers would beep horns and wave at me as the passed by. So, all-in-all it was a wonderful day out. I've connected with the local community in a way that it hadn't dawned on me to do before, I've spread a bit of Christmas cheer and I've let a few people know what I do.

It's been a simple lesson in the power of Santa, connecting, walking and staying positive - for it's always the most potentially negative experiences that result in the funniest tales. Just ask any Fawlty Towers fan.

Santa's Advocate

2008-12-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

It has become very apparent that the mention of Christmas will instantly get a reaction from all individuals - as it always has. Say it anywhere near your average child and their face will light up in excitement and magical expectation. Say it to an average adult and the responses vary from childlike excitement (not too common in my experience) to total loathing.

The varied anti-Christmas lobby will tell you about how it is over-commercialised, stressful, unnecessary, over-hyped, a pain in the **** - amongst other things. These are the same people who used to love Christmas as children. However, with age comes cynicism for many people. As life deals out it's seemingly harsh realities the ability to experience magic gets lost along the way.

As a Coach and Health Consultant it is often my job to play Devil's advocate as people present the issues that they feel are causing them stress. In a similar role at this time of year I like to become Santa's advocate and add a differing view to those who feel compelled to let me know how bad they feel Christmas is. I may not change minds en-mass but I do frequently bring a smile to the face of a cynical adult.

For me there will always be magic around Christmas. For those who believe that there isn't - there will always be plenty of people who will reinforce this view if they are looking for confirmation. For those who do believe in the magic of Christmas - well done. Given the choice of which category of person that I'd like to meet - it's a no contest.

Thanks Santa - once again, Christmas has come early.

Festive Fun

2008-12-07T07:44:00.000-08:00

Every year, in December I bring out my Santa suit. This has been a time-honoured tradition since my student nurse days. I used to like wearing it on the wards and when I went out for Christmas parties.

What I have found is that you can give people a gift by bringing a smile to their face. It worked well for those who were hospitalised around the festive period and for those who were working. Seeing people smile and aim their festive comments my way also made me feel good.

Last night I went to a very dear friend's house for our annual Christmas party. Apart from sparking up some very funny conversations about who was getting what for Christmas and meeting a host of wonderful friends - I also went out to the shop.

In the few hundred yards that I walked down the road I passed a father with his young lad. "Wow, it's Santa! Look dad. Hello Santa," shouted the smiling young man. "Hello," I smiled and waved as the excitement on his face brought a smile to mine.

In the shop I only had to walk in to bring a smile to the shop-keeper's face and the chap being served. They laughed and so did I. I immediately started feeling good and beaming a smile.

Smiling is good for you. It causes the release of seratonin (the body's natural, feel-good stimulant). It's free, it's fun and it's Christmas (almost).

I will be bringing out my Santa suit next week and having some more of the same.

For anyone who is looking to feel better I would highly recommend the donning of a Santa suit and a walk down the road. I challenge anyone to give it a go and not feel better as a result. It's one of the best investments I've ever made.

May you all have a very Happy Christmas.

2008-11-26T20:53:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcome to Wellbeing Innovation. This is the start of a new concept and a new era for me. Thanks to a serendipitous chain of events I have found the right people to send me into the right direction. The aim of this website will be to spread the message of simple, sustainable and fun health to a world audience. I warmly welcome all of you to my new website. Warmest wishes,

Adam

Welcome to the Wellbeing Innovation Blog

2008-11-23T06:11:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Wellbeing Innovation Blog.....

more news coming soon!