Episode 242

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Published on:

13th Jan 2026

#242 – I Drifted for 38 Years; Then Everything Changed

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Episode Summary:

In this solo episode of Sport Is Life, Ian Hawkins kicks off 2026 by challenging listeners to stop drifting and start designing their year with purpose. Drawing on his own life experience, including decades without direction and the wake-up call of personal loss. Ian explains how having a written plan and clear structure transformed his performance, mindset, and sense of fulfillment. This episode isn’t just reflective; it’s practical, with Ian actively guiding listeners to grab a pen and start doing the work alongside him.


The conversation explores why so many driven people, especially athletes and high performers, struggle without structure once it’s removed. Ian breaks down the power of setting just three key targets for the year, then reverse-engineering them into manageable monthly, weekly, and daily actions. He addresses common pitfalls like overthinking, setting goals that are too big, and losing motivation, offering proven strategies to maintain momentum, accountability, and inspiration over time.


Packed with real client examples and hard-earned lessons, this episode serves as both a mindset reset and an action plan. Ian invites listeners to take ownership of their growth, remove the “weeds” that block progress, and commit to intentional living. It’s a powerful reminder that progress doesn’t come from wishing, it comes from structure, clarity, and consistent action.


About the Host:


Ian Hawkins is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.


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One Day Kings https://www.instagram.com/onedaykings/

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About the Podcast

Sport Is Life
It's More Than Just A Game
The Sport Is Life podcast explores how sport can positively change your life. Join us as we delve into the powerful life lessons that sport teaches you, lessons that can be applied to every aspect of your life. Host Ian Hawkins shares wisdom and insights gained from a lifetime of experience as an athlete, husband, father, PE teacher, community volunteer, manager at Fox Sports and a performance coach to elite athletes, business owners, corporate leaders, and other coaches. Tune in to hear how sports can provide the tools you need to excel in your personal and professional life. From practical advice to heartfelt stories, the "Sport Is Life Podcast" is your guide to unlocking the potential within you through the power of sport.

Sport is more than just a game; Sport Is Life.

About your host

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Ian Hawkins

Ian Hawkins, host of "Sport Is Life," is dedicated to showing how sports can transform lives. With extensive experience as an athlete, a coach, PE teacher, community volunteer, and manager at Fox Sports, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge to the podcast. His journey began in his backyard, mentored by his older brother, and has since evolved into coaching elite athletes and business leaders. Ian's commitment to sports and personal development is evident in his roles as a performance coach and active community member. Through "Sport Is Life," Ian shares inspiring stories and valuable lessons to help listeners apply sports principles to all areas of life.