On this day in 2010, I signed for AFC Bournemouth who at the time had just been promoted to league 1.
When I got a tweet this morning reminding me that it had been 13 years today it brought back so many happy memories. I spent a bit of time with my morning coffee reflecting on everything that had gotten me to that day, and the incredible journey which followed.
Not many players get to achieve what I did in my career. I am so grateful for the experiences I had – good and bad.
As you may know I have made it my mission since retiring from the game to help as many people as I can reach their full potential through improved nutrition, fitness and mindset.
It got me thinking about the young man I was back then, and what it could have been that helped me to stand out and achieve what so many dream of.
I was not a special talent, I did not have lightening pace, nor was I the strongest on the field. But what I did have was a strong mindset and a willingness to work hard.
I gave 100% in everything.
There is a saying ‘It’s what you do in the dark that puts you in the light’
Looking back, this was something that I lived by without even realising it.
Even back when I was a youth team player at Burnley, I was extremely professional away from the club. I never went out drinking with friends, I made sure to get to bed early and I prioritised my training and recovery.
Yes, since furthering my education I know so much more now that I wish I had known back then, but I always did the best I could with the knowledge I had at the time.
When I was a scholar, mindset and mental health was rarely discussed. I was doing things back then which I didn’t realise was a thing or had a name.
I would practice visualisation daily – at the time I labelled myself as a daydreamer, but I am so glad that I stuck with this practice as now we know just how effective and powerful it can be.
I would also talk to myself and tell myself positive things. I now know this to be affirmations, but at the time I would just encourage myself when no one else was there to do it.
Throughout my career I consistently did extras on the training field and in the gym. I would endure ice baths when they weren’t compulsory. At home in the evening I would practice yoga and make sure to stretch my body in order to recover properly for the next intense session or game.
I prioritised rest and sleep (at the expense of my poor wife who did every night feed for our two daughters)
Fast forward to me being 26 and completing a diploma in nutrition. I was not required to do this, it was my own quest for improvement that led me to start investigating different ways to gain an edge.
Over a ten year period I worked my way from the conference league (playing for Kidderminster Harriers FC ) all the way to the premier league – the most competitive league in the world.
What I was doing in the dark was putting me in the light.
I just wanted to write a little something today to encourage everyone who is working hard behind the scenes right now.
You may not be getting the recognition you deserve in the moment, but don’t let that deter you. Keep going and remind yourself of the bigger picture of what it is you are working towards.
You may not be able to see it now, but you will look back one day and be grateful for the sacrifices you made.
If I can do it – so can you!!
