Why Gregathlon makes us all feel better…

Why Gregathlon makes us all feel better…

Beast from the East not only brought snow challenges but stirred up a national discussion around mental health issues. Gregathlon: Pedal To The Peaks for Sport Relief was cancelled on day four due to adverse weather conditions. A disaster after so much training and PR? Nope, Gregathlon mission morphed into something bigger and much more profound. As Radio 1 DJ Greg James opened himself up to the nation saying ‘he was not ok” the nation responded from all sectors of life with messages of support. Greg’s honesty opened the door to listeners sending in texts about their own struggles. As Radio 1 launched a massive push to raise more money, life momentarily stopped as we all texted GREG to 70205. Kids donated pocket money and birthday money. Doctors and students opened up their hearts and shared their personal stories. A huge amount raised – presently £808,112 – and he is back at it, so nothing stopping you topping that up… Despite Greg’s original plan no longer being possible, he, his team and the public showed how we can respond when plans go awol. Stuff happens that is outside of our control, but we do get to choose how respond. This does not mean that we have to do the stiff upper lip thing. Hell no, we can just be real and honest. When predefined plans derail we can still shape the outcome by accepting it, recognizing our emotional response, regrouping and then going with the flow.

With anxiety at an all time high this is a timely reminder that everyone has blips and the key is owning it, knowing it is normal and getting support. Leave it unchecked and we are likely to use coping mechanisms that will make it worse.

Greg was heroic because he was human and accepted that and the nation loved him for it. Why? Because despite living in a world that perpetuates perfect, we all know it is a crock and we are loving a celebrity calling time on it. And it just gets better as this is something that everyone of us can do and it costs nothing.

The skinny…

• Know when you are struggling
• Be realistic, it is ok to not be ok
• Ask for help
• Let your friends and family grab you by the hand
• Accept your emotion
• Know that it will pass

and of course – donate to Gregathalon, text GREG to 70205
https://secure.donate.comicrelief.com/?cartId=SR18_DONATE_Greg_James&_ga...

About Lucinda
With a strong corporate background, Lucinda has worked at a senior level with a series of investment houses and blue chip companies in the City and West End. Having built a strong coaching practice Lucinda is in demand for one-to-one coaching and professional presentations and as an expert voice in media interviews.
Lucinda Harlow, Executive Coach
0208 408 1008
07958 943607
lucinda@uevolve.co.uk
www.uevolve.co.uk
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