05/11/2025
Having recently been up to London to do a talk for International Men's Mental Health Month. It reminded me of where we have come from.
Since moving here, I have loosened the grip on what success looks like. I now enjoy myself way more, and my relationship with my partner, family, and friends has improved. Interestingly, work has never been better.
The change seems obvious... 'Cramped city to idyllic countryside', but the lessons have been more nuanced. One, my nervous system has a chance to breathe, people wave, smile, and stop to talk to each other... more than anything, I feel I have regained a sense of the 'wild me' that I didn't know was missing. The barefooted, spearfishing, trail running, wild camping, no plans, Ben that I have always been.
And what would a post from Ben be without the huge consideration of friendship?
For starters, has been the community I always dreamed of joining when I ran Men's Days in London and Vancouver. I have met the coolest friekken dudes whom I can genuinely see myself growing old with.
This makes me really happy.
But the thing that makes me MOST happy in as far as friendship is concerned. Is experiencing a whole new side to my wife, , because of this incredible bunch of mates she has found, . Haha, honestly, seeing my wife express parts of herself I had not yet witnessed is the bloody best. They get together every Wednesday after yoga and have a feast together. You have to wear ear defenders it's so loud, but she thrives.
The once self-proclaimed 'reserved person' now turned gregarious jokester is amazing.
Devon, I've said it before... thank you. My new home
This piece was written by Ruth Bloomfield at The Standard, and I want to thank her for her lovely words.
