Simple

I am a simple guy. I mean, maybe not to the outside world but in my mind and consciousness I feel like I am. I think that is why I love running so much. Its the most basic and primitive form of movement. Literally one foot in front of the other. Yes, you can vertically complicate running but at the end of the day it only requires some kind of footwear (most of the time) food and water and you can basically keep on going for a very long time, potentially forever with a little sleep. Bipedal pedestrianism has been the source of wonder for human beings for eons.

Recently, I have been faced with some opportunities to delve into some pretty deep stuff in the lead up to my X-Country adventure. Whist the initial idea of some of these modalities, ideas and treatments are luring, through talking with a couple of the parties potentially involved I came to some realisations. Again, I am a simple guy…however I have some deep thoughts and ideas about things I am passionate about and close to my heart. Running being one of them.

I feel, as humans, we too often try and overcomplicate things that don’t necessarily need complicating. I am fully aware that running 100k a day for 50days across the country is out of the ordinary, an on the limit endeavour. However, at the end of the day, it is running. Something we are all born to do, learn without any instruction and continue to do if we allow ourselves. It requires no coaching (although highly beneficial for some), limited to no gear and as little as a spirit of adventure. Not complicated.

I have been learning through this process of compiling a team for my X-Country adventure that often, simple is better. Having too many people, ideas, practices, and sometimes mumbo jumbo are a real distraction and don’t do anything to contribute positively to the greater goal of crossing Australia on foot. I need to be selective. I need to trust my intuition and lean on all I have learnt through 15years of literally being a student of running….practically, intellectually, spiritually and emotionally. This is philosophy to me. I know me. I know I like it when things are striped back, you get on with it and back yourself and the people in your inner circle to get the job done. This I know.

In fairness though, I don’t want to diminish the work of others. The progress of the human race, science, experimentation and learning has evolved at an incredible rate. This is amazing for some and to be honest, empowering. I really believe it is an individualistic thing. Each person is different and needs to come to their own conclusions about what works for them but for me….I am a simple guy.

In preparation for this X-Country run I have reduced my work hours yet seem to be as busy as ever! I have been upping my social media time, sussing logistics, getting sponsors sorted and training well. Things are busy and complicated enough in my little world. However, I trust, love and know that those around me are in my corner and want to see me succeed. So, for now, I keep things simple. I rely on my intuition as I always have for the last 39years of my life. I believe it and I trust it makes the right decisions for me most of the time.

Here’s to simplicity, one foot in front of the other, hustling daily and getting to 22nd of September with a clear mind, with no doubt around my ability to get the job done of running 100k a day for 50days. I am a simple guy.

Much love friends.

Consistency + Commitment