This year has been about personal growth in every sense — physically, mentally, and emotionally. After struggling with both physical and mental health challenges, I made a promise to myself: I was going to travel, write, and start living with more intention.

I began by cutting out the things that no longer served me — alcohol, junk food, and negative habits that kept me stuck in old cycles. I’m not perfect; I still enjoy an occasional glass of wine or champagne (I even treated myself to one on the flight to Thailand). But moderation has replaced excess, and that shift alone has made a huge difference.

The Journey So Far

Thailand marks the 11th country I’ve visited this year — and each place has taught me something new about myself. Travelling has become more than an escape; it’s been a classroom for self-discovery.

Now, as I spend two weeks in a training camp here, I’m rediscovering my strength — both the kind that builds muscle and the kind that keeps you moving when everything aches. A few days in, my body is sore, the heat is relentless, and every training session tests my limits. But I’m loving it. The sweat, the exhaustion, the laughter with new friends — it’s all part of something bigger: rebuilding myself from the inside out.

Not Where I Was, But Far From Where I Started

At 51, I’ve accepted that I might never return to the same level of fitness I once had. But that’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection anymore — it’s progress. I’m fitter, stronger, and more resilient than I’ve been in years. My energy is back, my mind feels clearer, and I’ve started to enjoy the process rather than just chase the result.

Creative Detours

I came here thinking I’d have endless time to write — two projects I was working on have stalled, not from lack of passion, but because the words just don’t seem to flow right now. I’ve learned that creativity, like healing, can’t be forced. Sometimes you have to step away and live a little before you can write again. And that’s exactly what I’m doing.

Lessons That Stick

This year has been eye-opening in more ways than I can count. I’ve learned that personal transformation isn’t about dramatic changes — it’s about small, consistent steps in the right direction. It’s about saying yes to yourself, even when you’re tired, unsure, or scared.

I’ll leave Thailand with sore muscles, a full heart, and a renewed sense of purpose. The journey back to yourself doesn’t end — it just keeps unfolding, one decision, one country, and one day at a time.

If you want to start your journey back to you pick up my book  https://a.co/d/cLH9lkv