05/11/2026
Yesterday I didn't win an award. On the train home, I got something better.
A man was sat looking anxious. He kept apologising and asked if he was in my seat. I told him to stay put, it was fine - am not precious.
We got talking. He was worried about missing his stop, and we ended up chatting about how the thoughts we repeat shape how we feel and react. I told him I hadn't won, but that I'd come away with so much more than a trophy. That's what caught his attention. "Tell me more," he said.
I also told him part of my story, that i wasnt v confident at struggle to put myself out there but am trying- so the event alone was an achievement let alone being a finalist, not that long ago I wouldn't have started a conversation with a stranger.m for fear of judgement or rejection.
The conversation went in several directions qas a bit of a mini coaching session in honesty.
As he got off, he shook my hand and told me I'd helped him more in 35 minutes than I'll ever realise.
I don't need him to remember my name. I'd love him to think, in six weeks' time, "the woman from Northumberland on the train said this, and it helped."
That's the legacy I want.
If something in your head has been running the show for too long, I'd love to chat. Send me a message. Even just "hi" is enough to start.
