I began a transformational journey back in 2012 with a pseudonym, a digital avatar, “No More Mr Fat Guy.” This was not just an online handle but a bold declaration of change, a commitment to turn my life around and march towards a healthier me. This was the digital space where I shared my trials, my triumphs, and every marathon milestone in between.
Fast forward to recent weeks, and a similar thought process gave birth to another alias, “The Bizzy Runner.” It seemed like an appropriate moniker, representing my continued evolution and blending my busy life with my enduring love for running, and long-term ambitions in the business world.
In reality, though, these identities simply served as protective shields, a layer of separation between my personal transformation and the world’s gaze. They were my comfort zones, my safety nets, my masks.
But as the saying goes, “The only thing that is constant is change.”
The passage of time brought a subtle, yet profound, shift in perspective. It wasn’t overnight, nor was it a eureka moment. Rather, it was the culmination of a twenty-year journey filled with self-discovery, introspection, and growth. I now realise that these masks, initially designed to safeguard my vulnerability, are no longer needed. The man who needed them once has evolved into a version of himself who is comfortable in his skin, unafraid to be seen, unafraid to just be.
Today, I stand at a point where I no longer seek the comfort of these masks. I’m embracing authenticity in its rawest form. This long and winding journey has instilled in me self-belief and has stoked a flame of confidence. It has made me realise that I’m more than capable of facing the world, being my true, genuine self.
I’m sure “No More Mr Fat Guy” and “The Bizzy Runner” will stick around somewhere, but perhaps as sub-titles rather than primary headlines. It’s a testament to the transformative power of personal growth, and a demonstration that we are all works in progress. The most fulfilling part of this evolution, as it turns out, is not just reaching the destination but becoming comfortable with the person we become along the way.
While it has been fun to create these comedic, self-deprecating, aliases, I welcome a phase where there are no more masks, no shields. It’s just me, in all my authenticity. It’s a reaffirmation that it’s okay to evolve, to grow, to shed old layers, and most importantly, to be proud of the person we are becoming.
The journey continues, but now, it’s just under my own name. It’s a path I’m excited to tread, filled with personal growth, life lessons, and boundless possibilities. So here’s to embracing authenticity, to the future, and to the thrill of what lies ahead. Onwards and upwards!