Stu Brien

I’m a self proclaimed “early riser” who puts a high value on health, both physical and mental.  I’m not a perfectionist in this space as I have a weakness for chocolate and beer (never together).  I like to start the day with exercise to inject it with a burst of  positivity, and I like to be positive.

My greatest accomplishments are when I show up for those close to me and I’m the best version of myself when I help guide others through life changing situations.  I think it’s why I was put on this planet.  It can hurt to receive criticism when you put yourself out there trying to help others, but I’m learning to spot the spectators who have their own agendas from the those standing beside me in the arena.

I get nostalgic for my youth whenever I hear any “Men at Work” song (Be Good Johnny and Land Down Under particularly). They remind me of holidaying as a kid, taking the boat out with our family all day water skiing on Lake Eldon, listening to the cricket on static filled radio and Christmas dinners on hot dry summers days and fishing and swimming in the Delatite river.

I have a strong reaction to injustices, particularly to those who are less fortunate and privileged although I wish had the courage to speak up and defend that value more often. 

I’m insecure about my past failures and making mistakes, particularly as someone with dyslexia, but I’ve learned that it’s not calm seas that make a good sailor, so I’m a work in progress in that regard.

My family are my North Star and these days the beach is my happy place where I can relax and be unencumbered by the demands of life and work. 

I consider myself a high functioning introvert because I enjoy my own company but love to meet new people and learn about them one on one, but I need to make an effort when I’m in a room full of strangers or people I sort of know.

I love cycling, for the freedom, joy and energy it brings me, but mostly because I get to spend time with my cycling buddies who enjoy taking the p**s out of me. I have a cheeky sense of humour although I think I’m funnier than I actually am, which is kinda funny in itself.