We have some random conversations and discussions during our Achieve Bootcamp sessions in Coventry.

We talk about pretty much everything, not just nutrition and fitness.

I'm not going to be able to look at Buzz Lightyear in the same way again and I'll wince overtime he engages his wings, ouch ;) (google Buzz x-ray).

However, 'everything' does have an effect on our health.

One of the common themes this week has been the stories we tell ourselves and have about ourselves.

The stories which prevent us from moving forwards in our quests for a better life.

We're all guilty of it, something that has happened in the past affecting our ability to move on in the future.

The past needs to be just that though.  You can choose to move forwards at any time.

It maybe difficult but it can be done.

We have members that look in the mirror and still see their former images rather than the truth that is standing before them.  

They are seeing the 'chunky' versions of themselves and telling the story that they won't be able to do the x, y, or z that they had dreamed of.

Our members have taken part and enjoyed obstacle runs, triathlons, 5k park runs and full marathons because we helped them change their story.

Sometimes that story was in place because somebody else had told them they couldn't achieve it.

I don't believe in couldn't or can't and encourage our members to be the same.

I am guilty of self limiting stories though and Fran gave me a wake up call yesterday about one I struggle with.

The reason I haven't been writing daily emails is that my 'concentration issues' have prevented me from focussing when in the office.  I've struggled to hold a train of thought and feared that if I wrote anything it just wouldn't make sense or be worth reading.

So I didn't write anything unless I felt like I had the ability to focus like a ninja.

Fran pointed out that it had never stopped me writing in the past, that there are always random thoughts in my emails and that I was using it as an excuse to be lazy in the office.

She was right.  I know how to get a grip of my concentration.

Not drinking coffee being a major one.

Practising breathing and chi gung also helps me massively.  

Eating well and avoiding processed non-foods has an affect too.

Essentially following my own advice.

I'm really writing this email as a kick in the arse for myself but hope that it helps you to think about the stories you may be using that are holding you back.

It's not easy but you can do it, we're here to help in anyway we can.

Darren 'to infinity and beyond' Checkley