Happy Monday everyone!
After a few months of hiatus, during which I enjoyed some quality family time (more on that shortly), and after receiving a few inquiries about when the next blog post would be coming (you know who you are), I’ve decided it’s time to dive back into sharing my thoughts. I’ll be focusing on what I’ve loved, learned, and liked in hopes of inspiring others to see things from a new perspective, try something new, or even learn from my mistakes.
So with this in mind, here are some reflections that are top of my mind. It’s good to be back!
What I’ve LOVED
How often do you catch yourself saying, “Time is flying by”? Because it truly does.
Earlier this year, I had a bit of an awakening when I realized that my daughter would be starting her GCSEs—a milestone similar to a high school diploma in the US. From there, it’s on to college and then wherever her journey takes her next. With this transition into adulthood will undoubtedly come a growing independence as she begins to carve out her own path in life
Realizing that time is ticking as my little girl begins to step into adulthood—and knowing that family holidays might soon take a back seat because they’re not exactly “cool” anymore—my family decided to embark on a mini adventure this summer. We spent just over two weeks traveling around British Columbia in Canada, cherishing quality time together. And let me tell you, it was more than just a break—it was a reset, a powerful reminder of what truly matters most.
There’s a special kind of bond that forms when you’re away from the distractions of the modern world. Phones were put away, work was forgotten, and for the first time in what felt like forever, we were fully present with one another. It wasn’t about the big moments, but the small, seemingly insignificant ones—a shared glance, a quiet walk, the simple joy of just being together.
We traded in (most) of the comforts of home for the open road, where each day was a new adventure. From towering mountains to tranquil lakes, dense forests to crashing waves, every part of the vacation brought us closer together as a family and reminded us of the beauty of the world around us.
There’s a unique power in stepping away from the routine and diving headfirst into nature. It’s not just about the adrenaline of hiking up a peak or paddling down a river—though those moments are exhilarating. It’s about the shared experiences, the quiet moments of awe, and the laughter that echoes off canyon walls.
As I sit here this writing this blog, back in the familiar hum of daily life, I’m holding tight to the lessons those two weeks taught me. Time is our most precious resource, and how we choose to spend it says so much about what we value. My advice? Don’t wait for the perfect moment to escape. Make the time now, however you can, to connect with the people who matter most. You might just find that the best vacation isn’t about where you go, but who you go with.
What I‘ve LEARNED
Somebody recently asked me, whats the one piece of advice I could pass on that would help this person in terms of their leadership capabilities. The first thing that came to my head was the ability to have difficult conversations.
According to a report by VitalSmarts, around 70% of people avoid difficult conversations at work. Similarly, a survey by Bravely found that 80% of employees experience some form of anxiety before having a difficult conversation, and a significant number of them avoid the conversation altogether.
These findings highlight that a large majority of people tend to avoid difficult conversations, often due to fear of conflict, discomfort, or uncertainty about how to approach the situation. This avoidance can have negative effects on relationships, both personal and professional, making it an important area for personal development and leadership training.
It’s tempting to avoid these conversations, to sweep issues under the rug or hope that they resolve themselves over time. But in my experience, it’s precisely these tough discussions that hold the greatest potential for growth—both for us as leaders and for the people we lead.
Difficult conversations aren’t just about addressing problems; they’re about building trust. When we tackle issues head-on, we demonstrate that we value transparency and honesty, that we care enough to confront the uncomfortable truths. It’s a way of saying, “I see you, I hear you, and I’m here to work through this with you.”
Of course, these conversations aren’t easy. They require preparation, patience, and a willingness to be vulnerable. But the rewards are profound. Teams become stronger, individuals feel more valued and know that they are being listened to, and the path forward becomes clearer. It’s in these moments of discomfort that true leadership shines.
So, as you step into this week, I encourage you to embrace the power of difficult conversations. Don’t shy away from them; instead, approach them with courage and compassion. You might just find that what seems like an obstacle is actually a gateway to deeper understanding and more meaningful relationships.
What I’ve LIKED
There’s a certain rhythm to life that I’ve come to appreciate over the years, and nothing brings that rhythm into sharper focus than the start of a new season at my son’s rugby club. This past weekend, as we arrived at practice, I was struck by how much this community feels like family.
Rugby has always been more than just a sport for me. It’s a place where my son learns about teamwork, discipline, and resilience. But it’s also where we find a sense of belonging, a second home. As we arrived at the ground, greeted by familiar faces and the excited hum of the season’s first practice, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of connection.
There’s something special about watching your child grow up surrounded by people who care—not just about their performance on the field, but about who they are as individuals. The coaches who push them to be their best, the teammates who cheer them on, and the parents on the sidelines who’ve become friends—it all adds up to a support system that feels as close-knit as any family.
The start of a new season is always filled with anticipation—new goals, new challenges, and the promise of moments that will be remembered long after the final whistle. But it’s also a time to reconnect with the people who’ve become a part of our lives through this shared passion. We swap stories of the summer gone by, catch up on each other’s lives, and find comfort in the familiarity of this little rugby community we’ve come to love.
As I watched my son run onto the field, ready to tackle whatever the season throws his way, I felt a surge of pride—not just for him, but for everyone that is part of the club. We’re in this together, through the wins and the losses, the early mornings and the late-night celebrations. It’s more than just a game; it’s a bond that brings us closer.
Here’s to a new season filled with the camaraderie, challenges, and joy that only rugby can bring. And here’s to the rugby family that makes it all worthwhile.
Final thought
Here’s a song to start your week. Enjoy.
Have a great week all!
If you would like to read the latest Monday Morning Musings then subscribe here:
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- Seasons of Change & Rekindling the Love of Learning – From 24th March 2025.
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