What Do You Leave That Will Help Others?
I spent the weekend on a three-day bikepacking trip through the trails of South Yorkshire, Derbyshire, and Nottinghamshire - weaving through post-industrial canal towpaths, disused railway lines, forest tracks, and forgotten lanes.
It was proper “up hill and down dale” territory.
On the first night, I noticed a drawing pin lovingly embedded in my front tyre. Fortunately, I run sealant inside my tyres, so it sealed almost instantly. But as I removed the pin, a bit of air and sealant escaped - not enough to stop me, but enough to leave things feeling a bit squidgy the next day.
I gave it a go with my little hand pump, but what I really needed was a proper track pump - the kind many of you have tucked away in a garage somewhere. Still, I thought, “I’ll see how I get on.”
The next morning, the tyre still felt soft. Rideable, but not right. I bounced along hoping I might find a bike shop - although on those quiet trails, they’re few and far between.
Then, around 15km into the ride, I stumbled on something unexpected: a public bike tool station. Just there, beside the old railway line leading out of Chesterfield toward Clowne. Neat, organised, intact - and working. Pressure gauge and all.
Not vandalised. Not broken. Just there, waiting to help.
If You Need It, the Universe Will Provide
It was such a small thing. But in that moment, it was everything.
And it made me think - someone, somewhere (maybe the local council or a railway preservation group) made the decision to put that station there. They had no idea who would need it, or when. But they left something behind to help whoever came through next.
A little life lesson, tucked away by the trail.
So here’s the question I found myself asking:
What have you left behind that might help someone coming along the same path later?
Everyone Needs a Step Up Sometimes
Since stepping into life as an independent consultant, I’ve had countless moments of realisation.
Moments like this one.
I’ve been learning how to run a business, find clients, and turn a lifetime of experience into something that feels valuable to others. And along the way, I’ve been helped by people who’ve walked the path before me.
Some are old contacts - people willing to give me an hour, share their learnings, or nudge me away from the mistakes they made.
Others are complete strangers - introduced through a friend-of-a-friend, open to a chat, happy to compare notes.
Rarely has someone said no. And if they have, I trust they had their reasons.
My Own Toolkit is Growing
Now I’m building my own toolbag.
Tips, ideas, lessons, and moments worth remembering.
Have you thought about…
One thing I wish I’d known…
Make sure you don’t waste time on…
These things are gold. And they’re everywhere, if you’re willing to ask. They’re evidence of a community - one that wants others to succeed.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
So if you’re thinking about going out on your own - or already have - don’t be afraid to ask for help.
There are people just ahead of you on the trail, and whatever tool you need for the job, someone out there probably has one you can borrow.
And If You’d Like a Bit of Help…
If you’re navigating a career change, a shift in identity, or simply wondering “what’s next?” - coaching can be a brilliant way to think it through with clarity and confidence.
📩 Get in Touch - let’s have a conversation and see if I can help you build your next toolkit.
