Fatherly Advice
In honour of Fathers Day on Sunday, 16 June, we asked some local names to share the words of wisdom that have shaped who they are today.
Nonna told me ‘Keep on working hard for your children but remember to play harder.” Michele Civiera, owner of Civerinos
“The best bit of fatherly wisdom I was given by Dad was that it doesn’t matter what you choose to do in life; just make sure you give it your all.” Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy, who has just launched a range of kids’ bikes, exclusively available at Evans Cycles. evanscycles.com/hoy
A great friend of mine, Dr Andrew Murray, a Sports Medicine Doctor and accomplished ultra-runner, gave me lots of advice when I started out but there’s one piece of advice that has really stuck with me - –
‘remember to have fun and enjoy the journey’.
Whether it be physically or mentally, it’s so important to make sure you’re having fun. If you’re not, your motivation plummets and it’s impossible to keep going. Trust me, I’ve been there.”
Scottish ultra-runner and coach Donnie Campbell, who recently completed the challenging 58-mile course Ramsay Round near Fort William. You can follow his latest challenge here.
My dad used to say ‘If you want to succeed in life, make sure you do things right- roll up your sleeves and move it, don’t sweep around it!’ What he meant was, don’t do things by halves, be prepared to get stuck in. I’ve definitely taken that on board since stepping into his shoes at work.” Young Director of the Year nominee Chris Thomas of incovo, who took the reins of the business after his dad’s tragic death two years ago.
“My Grandfather has been inspirational to me all my life, passing on many words of wisdom such as ‘actions speak louder than words’. Indeed, it is his actions that I have taken most inspiration from. He is a true gentleman, always considerate, always polite and above all, always kind. I have tried my best to emulate him and definitely fallen short... I will keep trying.” Steven Allum, general manager at The Witchery, Edinburgh.
‘Courage mon brave and shuffle the cards’ is the quote my father always likes to give. Essentially, shake it off, find your glasses and clothes and start again.” Actress and Scottish BAFTA winner Shauna McDonald
“My dad loved the old adage ‘Look both ways before crossing the road...’ but he didn’t mean literally – it’s a metaphorical piece of advice for many life situations; to see both sides of an argument, to weigh up pros and cons before making a decision, to be aware in general of everything around you. Of course it has also helped when crossing the road!”
TV presenter Konnie Huq who will be appearing at Edinburgh Book Festival to celebrate the release her first children’s book Cookie!...and the Most Annoying Boy in the World (Piccadilly Press) out on 08 August.
“My father has often reminded me that everything is possible and to be prepared for the unexpected. It has been useful advice in business and life.” Jenny Urquhart, Deputy Chairman of Johnstons of Elgin who works alongside father Ian Urquhart as Chairman.