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Kokoda Track- TICK!

What an unbelievable 7 days I’ve just experienced.

When you think about the Kokoda Track, vivid images of brave Australian soldiers, steep muddy hills, thick jungle canopies and local Fuzzy Wuzzy aid, spring to mind. Is this though what made last week so amazing? Yes, in part, but for me it was the personal journey that 15 strangers in our group went through that allows me to sit here and smile with pride, optimism and excitement at the future.

We completed the Kokoda Track and we’re all better for it.

I’d like at the same time to acknowledge all of our soldiers who fought so bravely in Papua New Guinea in 1942. Without them, things could be very different and their bravery will never be forgotten.

As you may know, a while ago I noticed that plenty of people on my website were listing the Kokoda Track as an item on theirs lists. Simply wondering if perhaps I could help these guys achieve their goal by organising a trek, I asked if anyone would be interested to join me if I was to arrange some dates. Within days, I had 15 people signed up. This was the beginning.

Months on (after buying backpacks, walking poles, sleeping bags, mosquito repellent, malaria medication, blister repair packs and hydration tablets to name just a few things items from our equipment list), it was whilst cruising over the Coral Sea at 40,000 feet on route to Papua New Guinea that our group met for the first time. United by the fact that we were all strangers on a plane together, the meet and greet was full of excitement and unknown.

Stretching 96km through inhospitable mountainous terrain, the Kokoda Track is a challenge of mental fortitude as much as it is of physical demand. You don’t accidentally find yourself attempting to trek here, you end up here only after much consideration, training and commitment. To even find yourself in a position of attempting this challenge is something to be commended and this point was acknowledged immediately as I addressed our team for the first time officially.

100 Things is a journey born of my individual desire. The journey began as nothing but a solo endeavour to find happiness but over time has naturally attracted the interest of others. We all desire happiness it seems. Being fuelled in itself by human connection, the 15 people of our team represented what would be the first ever event that I’d officially arranged for others. I was excited and, as always, swimming in unfamiliar waters. This was my personal challenge; an experiment of sorts to see if this event could offer those involved the same outcomes as I’ve experienced through my own journey- personal growth.

Only time would tell.

Watching men and women of different ages and backgrounds slowly begin the process of bonding, it was one simple question that ultimately brought us all together as one as the sky turned to night on the eve of our adventure;

 “So why is it that you decided to come to Kokoda as part of this group?”

The difference between knowing what someone is doing and why someone is doing is phenomenal. While the former allows us insight into a desire at surface level, the latter allows us to understand the individual from a far deeper level.

It was Russ, one of the more colourful characters of our team, that stood up and shared his story first. Touching on what many others were thinking, it was his desire to break the shackles of an all too comfortable lifestyle that had brought him here. Hilarious, passionate and insightful, Russ continued on for five minutes with a speech that set up the whole trip. He was here to learn about himself and was clearly a bloke with a lot to offer. His catch cry of “I want suck the marrow out of life!” became somewhat of an immediate mantra for us all- like Russ, we wanted to live every minute in the present.

By the time he sat down, we all loved him.

As others shared their story too, it was clear that we each had different reasons for being here and each of these was as valid as the next. Overcoming adversity, soul searching and seeking perspective and clarity were common themes. Interestingly not one person has answered ‘Because I like trekking‘. This journey was one of a mental nature- the muddy hills, steep inclines and feverish jungle seemed like added bonuses. These bonuses were brought to our attention at 6.30am the next morning as we took out first steps from Owers Corners and disappeared under the jungle canopy….

The next 7 days would change us all.

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Video to come in October 2013.

 

 

100 Things Group Event- The Kokoda Trek Sep 23rd-30th

I’m excited- from September 23rd to September 30th, I’ll be leading a group of 15 Campaigners from the 100 Things website through one of the most gruelling and meaningful challenges in the world; The Kokoda Trek!

A 96km pilgrimage of sorts for many Australians, this mountainous jungle trek follows the footsteps of many brave Australians who fought in the Second World War. Although incredibly challenging in the physical sense, this journey i’m sure will also be one of a mental and emotional nature for the individuals involved. It’s going to be special.

As it happens, this adventure acts also as the very first 100 Things group event that I’ve thrown outside of Australia. After noticing on the 100 Things website that many people shared the goal of completing Kokoda, it made perfect sense to me to organise a tour and ask if anyone was interested. Putting it out there on my Facebook page immediately, it took only a few days to fill the 15 spots available. The rest as they say is history.

I think when it comes to any goal in life, the first and most important steps are identifying and then committing to it and so even before one step is taken by anyone in our group, I’d like to say a big well done to everyone for getting this far. Kokoda for us is the manifestation of dreaming big and committing to something identified as important to each person, and in that lays something so beautifully important.

Embracing both the lessons that this adventure will organically present as well as a few secret activities that I’ve planned over the 7-day trek, I’m hoping that we come out the other end of Kokoda not only a bunch of good friends who have shared an amazing experience together, but also as people who have all grown on a personal level.

This is what this all about; growth.

I’d also like to thanks Mick from Round The World Experts who has offered us this opportunity to trek Kokoda at a great rate with a percentage of his own profit being donated to Camp Quality- legend!

I have a feeling that Kokoda will be the first of many international group events so if you’d e interested in joining us next time or would like to suggest an experience that we can consider, please contact me on email seb@100things.com.au.

100 Things… What’s on your list

 

National Suicide Prevention Day

Just realised it was National Suicide Prevention Day today Australia and I wanted to share something.
Over my time of this 100 Things journey I’ve been approached unexpectedly from many people suffering from mental health concerns, most of whom were ready to take their lives. From young to old, rich to poor and everything in between, it can happen to any of us. On each occasion that someone’s reached out to me, I’ve done my best as an unskilled bloke to meet them, listen to them and connect them with others who can help. Thankfully the outcomes have been extremely positive on all occasions.
It doesn’t take much to help, just the desire. If you’re reading this and could do with a helping hand, let someone know. If you’re reading this and you know someone who could do with a mate- call them and say hello.
It’s People Helping People in the simplest and most beautiful way. Make a friend, call a friend, be a friend. Be happy.

100 Things… What’s on your list?

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The Ripple Effect- “52 for Blue”

At the risk of sounding a little emotional; I’m always left smiling and shaking my head in astonishment when I hear of the positive & meaningful difference that the 100 Things journey continues to make with people around the world.

People are capable of anything when they take the time to identify what is they they’re passionate about and 100 my own journey is all about helping people get to this stage.

Why am i telling you this? Well I just received an email from a bloke called Brendon who happens to be a campaigner on the 100 Things site. After hearing me speak at an event earlier this year, Brendon decided to dedicate all of 2014 to raising $52,000 for the Beyond Blue charity by taking part in 52 Obstacle/Endurance races (one a week). He mentioned at the time of my talk that he’d let me know when he was was all set and delightfully his email confirms that he went through it!

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Brendon’s reasoning for choosing to support this great foundation is just fantastic and shows how appreciation and love for those close to you can spawn great things. Read all about Brendon and 52 for Blue HERE

This guy is inspirational and I’ve decided that i’m going to join him on at least one his races too!

100 Things… What’s on your list?

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People Helping People for P!NK…

If there’s one thing that’s blatantly clear from this journey of 100 Things, it’s that we all have goals, no matter who we are.

Now sure it would be easy to say that combined with determination and a willingness to commit, anything is possible, but in addition to these things I’ve also found out along the way the key to reaching a desired destination can sometimes come from influences far outside our own control, whether it be timing, opportunity or generosity.

A few weeks ago I received an amazing email from a lady named Michelle that highlights the importance of this idea- the power of others…. or as I like to call it; People Helping People.

The 100 Things website now encourages people to get online and share their goals and it’s in these instances where like-minded people share goals and dreams that special things can happen.

Michelle’s goal was to take her son to the recent Pink concert in Australia and this story will make you smile.

This is the email I opened up;

“As soon as P!nk announced she would be coming to Australia for the Truth About Love tour, I was focused on securing tickets.

I had exposed my 11yr old son to Pink’s music for many years, and he would often sing along with me in the car.  When the tickets were released both my mum and I were on the phone and online trying to secure tickets.  Unfortunately we had no luck.  I had even supported the campaign by a local radio station to bring P!nk to the Gold Coast for a concert.  Nothing…. Although a little disappointed, there was part of me that kept thinking it will work out – just like it did for the Funhouse tour.

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Fast forward to the middle of June and I was in Melbourne attending the “Happiness & its causes” conference.  Over the last few years I have become more and more interested in the science behind positive psychology and mindfulness, so I booked myself into the Melbourne conference.  It was while I was there that I received the email from Mick at Round-The-World Experts (a campaigner of the 100 Things weskit) who offered me 2 tickets to Pink’s concert on 10th July in Melbourne.  The “old me”, that is, the pre “100 things campaigner me” would have made a rational decision to pass up the offer due to the logistics involved.  However, the “new me” thought that given we only have one life (that we know of), I had best make the most of every opportunity – so I gratefully accepted!  Besides, isn’t it the journey that is the most important?  It’s interesting how when you surround yourself with positivity and gratitude, it seems to multiply!

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As my mum was travelling overseas and not available for the concert, it was a no-brainer to take my son to experience his first ever concert.  I didn’t tell him what we were doing, just that we were going on a trip to reward him for his outstanding school report card.  We had a whirlwind 24hrs to Melbourne and back for the concert.  It even coincided with my birthday week so another reason to celebrate!  Pink definitely did not let us down.  Not only is she a fantastic musician, but she’s an amazing athlete too.  I truly believe there is no better live performer than Pink in the world today.

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So how did my son enjoy his first concert?  He was spellbound by the show, the crowd, and the music.  The fact he was clapping and singing along speaks volumes for how much he enjoyed it.  It is moments like these that are truly priceless.  To that end, I owe Mick at Round-the-World Experts a very BIG thank you!!

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Cheers,

Shell”

Whether it’s a big goal or a small goal, the power of people coming together and sharing goals in undeniable. We s people naturally have a ability to both achieve things and help others do the same. Well done Mick on making dreams come true.

Mick, by the way is coincidentally the very same man who approached me about 4 months ago with the very kind offer of organising a travel package to the Kokoda Trek for people on my website. Saying YES immediately, I’m glad to say that thanks to Mick’s offer and of course the commitment of an adventurous bunch of campaigners on the 100 Things site, I’ll be leading 17 of us to Kokoda in just under 4 weeks!

Check out what else Mick does at RTW Experts HERE.

People Helping People…… Pass it on!

100 Things- good for the workplace!

One of the most interesting questions I field with corporate bosses inviting me to speak to their staff is this;

“We’re looking forward to hear you speak but can you please ensure that our staff don’t quit tomorrow so they can go and travel!?”

The simple answer is YES, but it’s a point worth discussing.

Although my own story involves events and activities outside the norm of a typical 9-5 job, it’s the principal behind my actions that have merit, not the actions themselves. At no point would I ever suggest that anyone should skydive naked, marry a stranger in Vegas or attempt stand-up comedy (3 items from my list), but I do though encourage people to ask what is important to them and in doing so, find purpose in passion in their lives, be it personal, professional or within the community.

Quite simply, identifying goals, committing to them and finding ways to achieve them is a principal that is extremely relevant to the work environment.

I received an email recently after I talk I gave to a large organisation that exemplifies exactly how powerful this message can be when seen the right way. Looking at this from a professional point of view (i.e if you’re a boss!), I think this is a great take-away point for any employee to have;

“Hi Seb,

You spoke to my self and about 400 other travel consultants today. Wanted to thank you personally, but they gave us time restrictions, so I unfortunately didn’t have time to say a very warm and regretful goodbye.

Your story has helped me realize and re-create a way to bring back my passion for what I do. And I can honestly say I will go home knowing I will think about how much I could change one or two or three people’s lives a day with just a simple bit of brilliant service and passion.

I could go on for ever with stories but I dont want to be a bore.

Good night and thanks, 

Jen”

Passion for life comes from all that we do and if you can find purpose and enjoyment in what we do in the workplace, we’re halfway to helping ourselves, and others, live a a happier life.

100 Things… What’s on your list?

Face to Face with 100 Things….

(I wrote this 2 days ago whilst in Dubbo)

I write today from Dubbo. I arrived here knowing no-one but very quickly met someone who has made me smile.

Announcing on my site that I was coming to Dubbo to give a presentation about the 100 Things journey, I quickly received an email from a lady named Cheryl. Cheryl as it turns out has been following the 100 Things journey for a few years (ever since reading my book) and offered to meet up if I had any spare time. Thankfully I did and so only minutes after stepping off the plane, I was hugged by the generous Cheryl, a lovely mother of three, and given a driving tour of Dubbo.

These types of exchanges, or meet-ups, have become something I’ve come to love on this journey and I sit here after spending a day with Cheryl full of joy. I know that may sound a little cliche but it’s the truth. I’m so happy.

You see, Cheryl is an amazing lady who tells me that ever since making her own list (in the back of my book, originally), she has reached a state of happiness that is clear for all to see. Smiling as she told me of recent over seas trips involving meeting her first love, picking grapes in a winery, and spending New Years Eve in Las Vegas (to name but a few!), it’s not only her own level of happiness that has grown, but those around her.

One of Cheryl’s daughter has an extensive list also, and Cheryl’s mantra that ‘anything is possible when you commit to something‘ has rubbed off on her kids in the most infectious way.

At one point I was lost for words when she told me of all the people on the site that she had become friends with, even sharing that she has become best friends with a lady based in country Victoria.

“We all share goals and are brought together by that similar mindset. We speak everyday!”

Luckily I was able to get Cheryl into the talk that I gave earlier today and referencing her as I spoke, I have no doubt that she could stood up and inspired the entire room if given the chance.

I think more so than anything, today has again made me see in the flesh that this journey of 100 Things has actual real-life outcomes for real-life people outside of myself. I’ve said for a long time now that this is the future of my own journey, and it’s because of Cheryl’s hospitality, honesty and bravery that I sit here proud to be doing what I do.

What’s next for Cheryl? Well she’s off to Spain next month to tick off her next item; walk the Camino de Santiago trail. Having just looked at my site as I posted this article, I’ve noticed that she’s now looking to invite anyone else who might interested.

Is that you? If so, check out her group HERE!

Thanks for a great day Cheryl and well done on helping yourself and others.

100 Things… What’s on your list?

Campaigners to Inspire Us All

Simply put; these guys are inspiring!

I can’t help but beam with pride as I see campaigners on the 100 Things website share and achieve their goals.

Today I thought I’d share the stories of three incredible people:

 

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James Thomas

James is a guy who in the last 2 years has been through a lot. The recent loss of his Mum on his 31st birthday triggered a change in him that he has embraced and in turn used for something incredibly positive. Identifying an urge to help others in a similar situation, James has just created a new foundation called ‘Feel the Magic’ aiming to take kids who have lost their parents to Disney Land. Wow.

Check out his profile and Facebook page HERE and watch James tell 3 lucky kids that he’s taking them to Disneyland below!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FF_7opgK5TA&feature=youtu.be

 

Shameme

Shameme

Shameme is a brave English girl who suffers from a rare disease called Central Core Myopathy. Affecting her life in significant ways, Shameme has one clear dream that she is passionately trying to achieve; to meet Justin Beiber (I don’t think I’ve met anyone with more conviction to a goal!).

Shameme sent me a detailed letter about her situation that she then posted on her profile page. Check it out HERE and if you know Justin (or someone who does), please let us know!

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James (Jono) Hopkirk

Jono is a bloke who actually volunteered his DJ’ing skills at a recent fundraising event I threw. Not having spoken to him in a while, I received an email from him last week telling me of his desire to help the mentally and physically handicapped being overlooked for help by authorities. Jono, you’re a legend for wanting to make a positive difference.

Check out his campaign HERE!

If you want to join the growing ranks of campaigners who are sharing and helping each other with their goals, why not sign-up today?

 

100 Things… What’s on your list?

Campaigners of the Week!

It’s no secret that the most exciting thing about this new website is the ability it offers to Campaigners to interact and share their own story and goals.

In the last 6 months of the website being launched, the uptake has been huge and the goals and dreams that have been listed by people all over the world are not only amazing but on occasions completely selfless!

Here are just a few example of people aiming to make a real difference not just for themselves but also others. I’ll be sharing a few more stores through out the week:

 

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Conor and Boe

These guys are just awesome! After giving a talk at their school a few months ago, I received the following email from them telling me of their delightfully ambitious goals of not only breaking a Guinness World Record but also raising money for a worthy charity close to their hearts:

“Seb, After you spoken to my school I was inspired to start my own list just to see how it when but I never really was keen on starting it. Until I got a message from a good friend of mine boe, he asked me to attempt a world record with him. Breaking a world record is on my list so I decided yeah I want to do this.

After talking to boe we decided we should raise money for charity while we are doing this. We chose prostate cancer foundation of Australia due to both of our lives experiencing family members who got this cancer. That is another thing on my list, raise 10000$ for a charity which was again inspired by your list. 

We have been receiving a lot of support through the school as they are donating and encouraging us. We would firstly like to invite you to this event on 26th August. Here’s a video that we’ love you to help us promote”

Well boys, congrats on your ambition and here’s your video! If you’d like to donate to the boys or even attend their event (on the Central Coast, north of Sydney) please email me for details on seb@100things.com.au

http://youtu.be/PpjMFN8vEG8

 

 

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Ryan Mistry

This guy is not only hairy but has a heart of gold! After meeting Ryan at a talk last year, Ryan reached out and told me of his goal to raise over $5000 for a kids cancer charity! If he reaches the $5000 mark, he promises to shave his impressively bushy beard and reunite with his chin. To help Ryan rid himself of his facial hair, check out his profile HERE

 

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Dave ‘Diamond’ Nixon

This is a man of considerable talent. A gym owner and ex MMA fighter, Dave decided last year not to drink for 12 months. This was no easy feat but he did it and in the process raised over $10,000 for Camp Quality! If this wasn’t enough, this year Dave is again raising money for Camp Quality by throwing a fitness challenge in Canberra (Australia) in August where he is trying to get a group of people to do as many Burpees as possible with local businesses donating money for each Burpee completed. To get involved check out Dave’s website!

 

Well done guys and best of luck!

100 Things… What’s on your list?

 

 

 

Seizing the Moment…. and Realising It!

I just read this email from a brave and adventurous girl who I think lives in a way that we could all learn from.

No one will ever be regretful of chasing their dreams, only not chasing them. The idea of taking a moment to realise this is an important step and if at that stage you can look back at a life that makes you smile; well I don’t think anything is more important.

As Kylie explains, sometimes though it takes a dark moment for us to take this moment.

Thanks for sharing Kylie!

“Hey Seb,

I guess I should start by saying I’m halfway through your book and absolutely love it. It was given to me just a little over a month ago while I was laying in bed in a strange Canberra hospital on life support after a relapse with a rare neuromuscular disease. Sounds a bit funny that one of my mates would give me a book while I’m laying completely sedated on a vent but I’m sure glad they did!

You see, I was diagnosed when I was 14 and it took away everything I thought was so important at the time. All sports, running around with friends all the time, and my spirit. Thankfully though somewhere along the line I found my spirit again and started putting all my time and effort into organizations and leadership. Anyway, I try and spend all of my good days/times doing everything I possibly can while I can! So your book was the perfect pick me up after a year of remission, going on a mission trip to Haiti, studying abroad in Australia, and traveling to Fiji on break, to end my trip in a hospital completely foreign to me, completely alone and scared sh%tless.

I started to question whether my passion to travel and be adventurous was worth it but after reading your book and thinking about my life I can honestly say that if I were to die at 20 years old in Australia, after one of the best semesters living the Aussie life, I would be happy and it would all have been worth it.

So mainly I wanted to say thank you for giving me back hope that it is worth living your dreams.

Best of luck! And if you’re ever in Indiana (which I don’t know why you ever would be unless you’re into corn or NASCAR?) you have a place to stay!

Thanks!

Kylie :)