Over the summer I took a big chunk of time off. We had the luxury of a 3-week holiday in 3 different places. We explored, we relaxed, we had a lot of fun, and we spent time with my sister and family for the first time in nearly 3 years.

Then when we got back, we took a trip up to Yorkshire. Every time we go, I do the same run to ‘Bird’s Corner’. It’s 2 miles uphill, with the reward of a beautiful view, and a relaxing cruise back down. I always pause at the top. It’s a peaceful place, and gives me a feeling of calm and spaciousness.

In both cases, being away from home created some distance between me and my everyday life, and gave me a very different perspective. I could look at my life from afar, reflect on where I am, where I’ve been, and where I want to go. I could think about what matters most.