How do we navigate setbacks, self-doubt, and life’s toughest moments? For Harry Garside, professional boxer, Top Blokes ambassador and mental health advocate, the answer lies in reflection, self-accountability, and finding strength in vulnerability.
In a recent chat with Top Blokes Youth Council members, Dan and Salim, Harry shares some of the key strategies that have helped him grow both as an athlete and as a person.
Here’s our top five takeaways:
1. Sit in the mud: The power of reflection
Harry believes that bouncing back too quickly after a setback can prevent us from fully understanding what went wrong. Instead, he advocates for taking time to reflect and process.
“Sometimes we get up too quick and we don’t actually reflect on why we’re down… I like to sit in the mud, accept it, and own it before I move forward,” he explained.
By embracing difficult moments rather than avoiding them, Harry has learned to turn failures into valuable lessons. For anyone facing challenges, this approach can help create a stronger foundation for the future.
2. Honouring your word: Building trust with yourself
Self-accountability is central to Harry’s philosophy. Keeping promises to yourself, no matter how small, builds confidence and self-respect.
“If I say I’m going to do something, just try my best to actually do it. When I look in the mirror, I know if I’ve upheld my word or not,” Harry shared.
Whether it’s committing to a fitness goal, mending a relationship, or pursuing a passion, staying true to your intentions is a powerful way to build resilience.
3. Feeding the light wolf: Choosing positivity over doubt
We all have an inner conflict between self-doubt and self-belief. Harry uses the metaphor of the “light wolf” and “dark wolf” to describe these competing voices.
“The one that is the loudest is the one we feed the most. I’ve always tried my best to feed the light wolf,” he said.
By focusing on positive actions and surrounding yourself with supportive people, you can cultivate a mindset that helps you thrive, even during tough times.
4. Finding your community and passion
Harry’s advice for young men struggling with identity or self-worth is simple: Find what fuels you and seek out a supportive community.
“Find that thing that adds fuel to your flame and become capable… find the community that accepts you for you,” he urged.
Whether it’s sports, creative outlets, or spending time with friends or family, engaging with your passions and people who lift you up, can create a sense of purpose and belonging.
5. Growth through action: Dive into challenges
Overthinking can hold us back from progress. For Harry, the best way to grow is to take the leap and figure things out as you go.
“Dive in the deep end and learn how to swim… It’s that survival thing. You’re in it, and you’ve got to figure it out,” he said.
While preparation is important, sometimes action is the best way to overcome fear and build confidence.
