Alan Richardson's making plans for the future thanks to Performance Lifestyle
County: Middlesex
Adviser: Heidi Coleman
What made you decide to use the Performance Lifestyle service?
Although I have gained some work experience ranging from coaching to landscape gardening over the past 10 years, last season I started to think about my long-term future and what I might do once my playing days are over. One important thing that my work experience has taught me is what I don’t want to do! However, I had little idea about what I might be interested in doing. My housemate at the time was also having similar thoughts and told me that he had contacted Heidi to see if she might be able to help him. I thought that this might be a good idea too, so arranged to meet Heidi whilst I was at Lord’s.
How has PL worked for you?
I met with Heidi at a time and date that fitted around my training and fixtures and continued to do this on a regular basis throughout the season. After each meeting we would agree on an action plan with each of us having things to follow up. Heidi also maintained regular telephone contact which helped me to stay focused and explore my options.
What has PL enabled you to do?
PL has helped me realise that I have to start preparing for the inevitable sooner rather than later, but that I do have options for the future. Working with Heidi has given me the confidence to pursue studies in any field that interests me which I had not thought possible before, given my line of work. Using PL has helped me learn much more about myself as a person, and identify some key areas of interest for a future career. Heidi has given me a wealth of information on things that interest me ranging from courses and institutions with flexible study programmes, to information on specific careers. She has also encouraged me to try out some of these careers before I make any concrete decisions with regard to the future.
Where are you now?
I normally spend my winters abroad but this winter I decided to stay in the UK to get some work experience under my belt. Sports Agency is something that I’m interested in, so I thought it important that I try this out before making any definite decisions. In addition, with the help and advice that Heidi has given me, I have been exploring the possibility of studying for a degree and will be attending an open day in a couple of weeks to get a feel for university life and the courses on offer.
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