“Be tougher.” Helpful… or hollow? Dr Stephen Leckey joins me to unpack why the usual slogans don’t cut it - and what actually helps you train, compete and live by your values when the noise (and your inner critic) ramps up.

We get into

• Why social media quietly warps your sense of “fit”
• The problem with chasing “mental toughness” as a badge - and a cleaner way to think about it
• Psychological flexibility: a practical frame you can use in the gym, at work, and at home
• Handling the “I’m not good enough” story mid-session without derailing your day
• Values as verbs: a 10-minute exercise to clarify what matters (and how to act on it)
• Small, boring behaviours that look “soft”, but win seasons

Listen if

• You’re stuck between doing more and actually doing what matters
• Comparison is draining your training
• You want a way to push hard without burning out

About Stephen

Dr Stephen Leckey is a lecturer in Sport & Exercise Science (University of Glasgow) and a practising sport & exercise psychologist. Former rugby player; research in mental toughness and psychological flexibility.

If you used to live for sport and the itch hasn’t gone, but niggles, work, and family keep tripping you up - I coach people like you.

I help former athletes with unfinished goals overcome injuries, train with purpose again, and rebuild confidence—without turning life upside down.

Fancy a chat about the next intake?

DM “EVERGREEN” on Instagram @finlay.evergreen.athlete and we’ll see if it’s a fit.

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