For 59-year-old Elaine Callaghan, there’s so much more to #walk1000miles than reaching a target. But finally hitting that goal at the sixth time of asking felt pretty incredible!
‘I started #walk1000miles in 2017. Each year, the first few months went well, but I quickly got behind target and lost the mojo to go out regularly. I felt a little deflated not completing over the years, but as so many people on the Facebook group remind us – it’s our challenge and we can do it our way. So I just started over again the following January, with mini starts during the year to reach new, smaller targets. Seeing others achieving their goals inspired me to carry on, as I knew that one day I would do it.
I finished working on 30th December 2021 and decided that 2022 was going to be the year I completed. When I reached the target, It was such a sense of achievement. I’d had it on my list of things to achieve for so many years, and it still brings a smile to my face months later! I’m surprised at how proud of myself I am, and of the reaction of friends and family.
Walking is very important to me now. When I'm on my own it gives me time to appreciate my surroundings and to ponder life, the universe and everything, and when I'm with others it’s a chance to talk and catch up in the fresh air. My mental health is in such a better place and I’ve lost weight. Walking has helped me to look at my whole lifestyle and my diet is now so much better. AND I've saved a fortune on petrol, as I walk to the shops all the time now (a good excuse to get the miles in!).
The challenge is what you make it – don't beat yourself up if you’re falling behind. Do what you can to make it, but maybe adjust the challenge to what is feasible for your circumstances. Every day is a new day and every mile is a bonus.’
