So I’ve been doing a challenge recently where I aim to show up daily on social media with a walking and talking type post. The brief is to chat to the audience (you) as though I am telling you about something on my mind, to do with my business or life or whatever, and you are a fellow walker also puffing away beside me.  The aim is to get comfortable putting one’s  face out there, (so you will know I am actually a real person) and also to get my butt into shape by moving every day.   

One of the biggest challenges for those of us who have spent years as "failed dieters" isn't actually the food.

It's the food noise.

The constant chatter that seems to run through your head all day long.

"What should I eat next?"

"How many calories are in this?"

"I know I should eat that... but I really want this."

"Why do I keep eating this rubbish?"

"Chocolate... I see chocolate... I must eat chocolate!"

Perhaps your food noise sounds a little different, but if you've struggled with your weight for years, you'll probably recognise that endless internal conversation.

For those interested in health and wellbeing, or who follow the principles of the Tortoise Diet Method, this will feel familiar. I’m a big advocate of eating a wide variety of whole foods and making sure we get all the essential nutrients our bodies need — protein, fats, fibre, calcium, probiotics, trace elements — and plenty of deliciousness along the way.

 Losing weight and gaining wellbeing is not a one off, one size fits all miracle diet event. All of you who have tried all the diets over the years know this to be true.  What I’ve learned  is that its about changing the way we think, therefore the way we feel and therefore the way we act. It’s about creating the sort of environment that supports our desire to be the sort of person we really want to be. And all of this takes place over time – not overnight. Finding what works for you - or for me - takes time. In the book, the Tortoise Diet Method, I talk about giving yourself a gift of a year to get it right. I am giving myself this year to reach my goals and stay there. The Tortoise Diaries will follow that journey and you are welcome to follow along if you wish. I have thought about doing this for ages so am finally - on Day 41 of 2026 - taking actions on it. You can share the ups and downs, the ins and outs, probably some random insights that will end up as stories - but you will hear it first on my instagram posts in all its raw and real way. Starting here.