Have you ever felt stuck in life, like you’re going through the motions but not really living? That’s been me during different chapters in my life. On paper, my life has always looks great —career, home, routine—but deep down, I’ve been restless. I wanted more from life. More challenge, more excitement, more proof that I was alive. So, I did what any slightly unhinged woman does when she’s craving something different—I’ve thrown myself into some of the most intense, ridiculous, and soul-shaking adventures I could find. And let me tell you, they kicked my butt—but in the best possible way.
If you’re teetering on the edge of making a big, bold move, here are five adventures that tested me, shaped me, and reminded me that I am so much stronger than I ever imagined. Maybe they’ll inspire you to take your own leap into the unknown!
1. Backpacking around the world in my 30s
Most people assume that backpacking is something you do in your early 20s, when you have no responsibilities and a high tolerance for questionable hostel conditions. But I decided to take the plunge in my 30s, proving that adventure has no age limit. In 2005 I sold my house and quit my job to make this dream happen. My friend and I bought a round-the-world ticket and set off with no real plan—just a craving for the unknown and a rough itinerary that took us from London to Los Angeles (USA), then on to Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia before heading home.
This was before smartphones, travel blogs, and instant Google searches. The internet was barely six years old, which meant we relied almost entirely on personal recommendations and a Lonely Planet Guide book. Every destination was an unfolding surprise. We stayed in places we found through other travellers, ate at hidden gems, and changed plans on a whim.
It wasn’t always glamorous—there were missed buses, dodgy accommodation, and moments of pure exhaustion—but the freedom was intoxicating. I learned to embrace uncertainty, to trust strangers, and to adapt when things didn’t go according to plan (which was often). Most importantly, I discovered that I was capable of navigating the world on my own terms.
Lesson learned? You don’t need to have everything figured out before you take the leap. The best experiences happen when you allow yourself to be open, adaptable, and a little bit fearless.
2. cycling 767 miles to visit my sister
I had always dreamed of doing a long-distance bike ride but had no idea how to start. So, in my early 40s, I just decided to go for it. My sister lived in Chamonix in the French Alps and I lived in Wales. Between us was 767 miles of road, adventure, and a whole lot of pedalling.
It took me 11 days, and every single one of them tested me. Most days I got my mileage calculation wrong, leaving me utterly exhausted. Other days, I felt invincible, flying down smooth roads with breathtaking views. Along the way I battled extreme tiredness, relentless hills and terrible weather that seemed to mock me. But every mile brought a new lesson in endurance, perseverance, and the sheer joy of pushing past my own limits.
Lesson learned? You don’t need to have all the answers before you start. Just start, and figure it out along the way. I felt like superwoman on the day that I finished!
3. Being a contestant on a game show
Not just any game show—BBC’s Total Wipeout, filmed in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Imagine traveling across the world with 19 strangers, competing in one of the most ridiculous, hilarious, and physically demanding obstacle courses ever created.
At first, I was completely out of my depth. The challenges were brutal, the competition fierce, and the wipeouts? Oh, they were spectacular. But something incredible happened—we bonded. By the end, we weren’t just contestants; we were teammates, friends, and cheerleaders for each other. I finished 8th out of 20, bruised, exhausted and smashed off ‘The Sweeper’, but I was grinning from ear to ear.
Lesson learned? Life is more fun when you say yes to the ridiculous, even if it means travelling half way across the world with a bunch of people you don’t know. Oh, and also having your efforts shown to a TV audience!
4. Running a marathon (even though I hated running)
I hated running. I didn’t mind it when I played football or hockey, but the idea of running 26.2 miles? Absolutely daunting. But something inside me wanted the challenge.
I found a beginner’s running plan, stuck to it, and step by step, mile by mile, I turned something I despised into something I conquered. From struggling to run 3 miles without stopping, I was soon up to 8 miles non-stop. The marathon itself was brutal—my legs ached, my mind wavered, but crossing that finish line? Pure magic. Never again though!
Lesson learned? The things we think we can’t do are often the ones most worth doing.
5. Hiking across Malta aged 50
Not the longest adventure I’ve ever done, but by far the hottest. I decided to hike across Malta in August 2024 to celebrate turning 50. Unfortunately, the heat and humidity were unforgiving. Armed with Google Maps and a stubborn streak, I walked for 2.5 days straight, determined to see it through.
It was sweaty, exhausting, and at times I questioned my sanity. But there was also an undeniable thrill in knowing that I was still taking on adventures in my fifth decade, still pushing myself, still proving that age is never a reason to stop exploring.
Lesson learned? Adventure doesn’t have an expiration date. Keep going.
These adventures weren’t just about the places I went or the challenges I faced. They were about proving to myself that I was alive, capable, and stronger than I ever imagined. If you’re feeling stuck, if you’re craving something more, consider this your sign. The world is waiting. The adventure is calling. And I promise—you are so much stronger than you think.
So, what’s your next crazy ad
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If you’re at a time in your life where you’re contemplating some big adventures or big changes, I can help. Check out the mentoring services that I offer and contact me if you have any questions.