134. David Smith: High performance, health and humility

In this episode 134, previous guest from episode 87 Dr Sarah Gilchrist introduces her guest, David Smith MBE, a former Paralympic rower with an impressive sports background. David shares his journey from winning a gold medal at the 2012 London Paralympic Games, to facing the reality of paralysis and living with challenging medical issues. David stresses the significance of staying connected to the current moment as a key element of success and a fulfilling life. He introduces the concept of "being where your feet are," emphasising the value of focusing on the present rather than dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. This mindset enables individuals to fully engage with their surroundings, experiences, and emotions, leading to a heightened sense of awareness and gratitude for life.

About David Smith MBE
David Smith MBE is a remarkable athlete, inspirational speaker, and advocate for resilience and mental strength. With an illustrious career in sports, David has competed at the highest levels, earning accolades in both rowing and cycling. His journey is marked by extraordinary achievements, including winning gold at the London 2012 Paralympic Games as part of the mixed coxed four rowing team. David's life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive tumor on his spinal cord. Despite facing multiple surgeries and the threat of paralysis, David's unwavering determination and positivity saw him return to competitive sport. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the human spirit. Awarded an MBE for his services to rowing and inspiring others, David now dedicates his life to motivational speaking, sharing his experiences with global audiences. Through his talks and podcasts, he empowers others to overcome adversity and embrace life's challenges with courage and optimism. Discover the incredible journey of David Smith exploring what he learned from his athletic career, his battles with health, and his mission to inspire resilience and a new perspective on life in others.

Connect with David Smith MBE via LinkedIn and his website

Time Stamps
02:05 - David's Tumour Diagnosis
04:03 - Impact of Tumour on Life
07:35 - Athlete's Awareness of Their Body
13:06 - Self-Management and Learning
16:06 - Challenges of Self-Rehabilitation
19:02 - Observing and Listening
23:00 - Finding Beauty in Simple Things
27:00 - Roberto's Story
31:08 - Redefining Success
36:37 - Humour in Difficult Times

Key Quotes

• "How do I make the world just a better place through my understanding of 14 years on cancer wards and neurosurgery wards and everything I've seen there."
• I think that my superpower was to realize the impermanence of life and to know that it doesn't last forever.
• I love getting bored in the countryside because it just feels like my days are going longer, which gives me longer time on this planet.
• I always try to smile to people because I know what it's like when someone smiles to me.
• I guess I paid the ultimate price to learn this lesson, but that is the paradox of all of this is that it taught me how to live.
• You see this strength come from the human spirit, this will to live, will to survive, which is beautiful. There's this level of humility.
• You need human doings as well to change the world.
• If you're born and you're lucky to live to 80, you're given 4,000 weeks.

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