By Olivia Beardsmore, Master Firewalk Instructor at Firebird Firewalks
Life is like a firewalk—an intense journey where the path ahead may appear risky and at times overwhelming. Yet, as you summon courage, focus, and purpose, you realise your strength is greater than you ever thought possible. Over the years, I’ve learned that “winning at life” isn’t about sidestepping challenges or seeking perfection. It’s about stepping forward with boldness, even when the embers of uncertainty burn beneath you.
Let me share with you some of the codes I live by—these principles that guide me not just as a firewalk instructor, but as someone committed to helping others ignite their inner fire and step into their power.
1. Clarity of Purpose: The Flame Within
Winning begins with knowing what you truly want. Without clarity, it’s like trying to light a fire without a spark. Ask yourself:
• What sets my soul on fire?
• What does living with clarity of purpose look and feel like to me?
Once you have those answers, you'll be bursting with the courage to forge ahead! As Stephen Covey wisely said, “Begin with the end in mind.” Just like embarking on a thrilling firewalk, you want to clearly see the direction you're heading and envision the end as you gear up and decide to take that exhilarating first step!
2. Relentless Action: One Step at a Time
Firewalking teaches us that the only way across is one deliberate step after another. Life is the same. Success doesn’t happen in leaps; it’s built through consistent, focused effort. Even small actions, taken daily, create momentum.
Remember, every great fire starts with a single spark. What spark will you light today?
3. Resilience: Rise Like a Phoenix
Life’s challenges can feel like being consumed by flames, but like a phoenix, you can rise from the ashes, stronger and wiser. Resilience isn’t about avoiding failure—it’s about embracing it, learning from it, and using it as fuel for your journey.
As the Japanese proverb reminds us, “Fall seven times, stand up eight.”
4. Empowered Mindset: Harness Your Inner Power
The mind is the furnace where the fires of possibility are stoked. If you feed it fear and doubt, your fire dims. Feed it belief, gratitude, and determination, and you’ll ignite a blaze that nothing can extinguish.
Focus on what you can control. Shift your language from “I can’t” to “I will.” Firewalking isn’t about pretending the coals aren’t hot—it’s about trusting that you have the power to walk across them.
5. Meaningful Relationships: Building a Fire of Connection
A fire burns brighter with more fuel. In life, that fuel is the people who inspire, challenge, and uplift us. Surround yourself with those who encourage your flame to grow, and be that person for others.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
6. Skill Mastery: Tend to Your Fire
Mastery is like tending a fire—it requires patience, care, and consistency. Whether it’s your craft, your relationships, or your personal growth, commit to being a lifelong learner. Stoke the flames of curiosity and never settle for mediocrity.
7. Self-Care: Protect the Spark
Every fire needs rest—it can’t burn endlessly. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s the oxygen that keeps your inner flame alive. Nourish your body, mind, and spirit, and watch how your energy transforms.
8. Contribution: Be the Light for Others
A fire’s warmth is most meaningful when shared. Winning at life isn’t just about personal success—it’s about lifting others and making an impact. Use your unique gifts to serve the world and leave it better than you found it.
“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle.” — James Keller
9. Spiritual Alignment: The Eternal Flame
Fire has long been a symbol of spirit and connection to something greater. Whether you find that connection in nature, meditation, or a higher power, aligning with your purpose and values keeps your fire burning through life’s storms.
10. Courage to Act: Step Into the Fire
Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s feeling the fear and walking anyway. On the firewalk, you can’t second-guess yourself. You have to trust your preparation, focus your mind, and take that first step. Life demands the same bravery.
“Do the thing you think you cannot do.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
The Fire Awaits
Life will always present challenges, but remember: the fire is not your enemy. It is your teacher, your catalyst, your proving ground. By embracing the principles of clarity, resilience, connection, and action, you can walk across the coals of life with confidence and grace.
So, the question isn’t “Can I win at life?” The real question is: “Am I ready to ignite my fire and step boldly into the life I deserve?”
The fire is waiting for you. Are you ready to walk?
Let’s light up the world.
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