I guess I’ve always been a planner, always been organised, just who I am. I did a lot of travelling about 10 years ago - I think one year I clocked up 11 countries! Thats just one year, and with working full time too. One of my most special trips (and there are many to choose from) was the Trans Siberian railway which I did in 2008 - Russia, Mongolia and China, with a lot of time spent on (youve guessed it), a train!! I would say that this was one of my bigger and longer trips! It had been on my list for a few years and I often day dreamed about making it happen. Then one day I decided to make it happen. I did so much research! I spent hours on google and bought the obligatory Lonely Planet guide. As I was going alone (but meeting up with a group) I wanted to ensure that I was prepared as a I could be. Then once I was on the trip I could relax knowing that I just had to enjoy being in the moment and soak up every minute, which I did!!

I got into time blocking a few years ago and haven’t looked back. I have AM, PM and EVE down the side and the date along the top. I put in my non - negotiables first - work, gym and then other jobs I don’t want to forget like putting the bin out (yes I actually remind myself about the bin)! I think writing it down is so useful as if someone invites you do do something you can quickly look at it and see if you’re free and also its useful for moving things around - ok I’ll see that person that day and move the gym to that day. It really helps to keep focus and keep you on track. Before I time blocked I had everything in my head, so taking the gym for example; I train 3 times a week and to me thats that. 3 times a week, no option for cop outs! You may be reading this thinking my gosh she is motivated. And yes I am…however, when something becomes a habit it turns into discipline, not motivation. I cant say I am always 100% motivated for the gym, but its my discipline that gets me out the door! If its a gym day its a gym day!

Things don’t just happen, you have to make them happen; you have to set time into achieving your goals and living the life that is yours and that you are proud of. I had the honour of being invited to become a Cornish Bard by Gorsedh Kernow last year. Now this didn’t just happen. I dedicated 5 years to learning our fine Cornish language. Thats 5 years of night classes, going out in the rain after a hard day at work and 5 years of nerve wracking exams! Five years of turning down invites to go out as you’re studying. I often use the example of an athlete (I’m not saying I’m an athlete by the way)! You will see someone win gold in the Olympics, ok you see them run amazingly and get presented with their medal. What you don’t see is the early mornings, the dedication out in the rain, the restricted diet. They sacrificed like I did for their end goal. Like I said things don’t just happen.