‘Focus on the small, positive things. And if something is good, step back and enjoy it’
things – whether that’s a physical pain or a difficult situation – are challenging. My first response is always to stay calm and to think, ‘We’re going to get through this.’
What made you decide to quit Loose Women?
The pandemic was the catalyst. I’d started This Girl is on Fire on the side, but I hadn’t been brave enough to make the leap. I’d been working in TV for 25 years, but when I began my new business, I realised I loved that more. I knew that meant it was time to move on. I was scared to leave, but if the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that none of us know what’s around the corner, so I realised I might as well jump.
Why do you think change can be so scary for women?
The older we get, the more scary it is to make changes because we lose confidence in ourselves. I believe women have an inbuilt need for security and we need to feel safe. Any major change that leaves you feeling vulnerable is scary so we try to protect ourselves by sticking with the familiar. Making changes challenges that, because we fear that one big change may see everything come tumbling down.
What anchors you when things get tough?
Meditation. I’ve been meditating for 18 years and it works for me. I can tell when I’ve not done enough – my brain starts scattering around and I get cross and inpatient. I try to do some every day – even five minutes can make a huge difference.
Do you have a self-care routine that helps you?
I try to do some form of movement each day. We get far too hung up on the idea of exercise and having to train hard, but exercise should just be about moving our bodies. A walk in
fresh air and nature might not burn a zillion calories but it’s still valuable. I also love yoga, though I’m terrible at it! I’m creaky and stiff, but I feel better afterwards.
Can you describe how you’re better and braver than your 25-year-old self?
I’m not braver and better, I’m as brave as my 25-year-old self. I lost my way for a while but I’m back to where I was, which feels amazing. I now have the courage of a 25-year-old. This isn’t a new thing, it’s an old thing that I’ve rediscovered. I care far less what other people think. I combine my 52-year-old’s attitude of ‘Just do it’ with a 25-year-old’s viewpoint of ‘What’s the worst that can happen?’ It’s a great combination.
What mantra do you live by?
It changes daily! Right now, it’s a complete understanding of ‘This too shall pass’ – but I mean that in a positive way. Most of the time we think of that phrase helping us through a difficult time, but realising that it also reminds you to focus on small, positive things is so important. If something is really good, step back and enjoy it, because it won’t last. Something will happen – not even in a catastrophic way – and the moment will be gone. But those words also give you great strength if you’re in pain or something is not going right in your life. That’s what I live by – as well as ‘Just do it!’