EKAITZ SAIES

Stress is often cast as the villain in our lives—something to be minimized, avoided, or conquered. Yet, in reality, stress is a critical ingredient for growth and adaptation. Whether we’re athletes pushing our bodies, parents navigating endless responsibilities, or leaders steering the ship in turbulent times, stress drives improvement. But here’s the catch: stress alone…

Now that I live in Oxford, I often find myself walking to the Iffley Road running track. This historic site, where Roger Bannister broke the four-minute mile in 1954, serves as a powerful reminder of the bold goals that drive human achievement. Bannister’s feat wasn’t just about physical endurance—it was about embracing the possibility of…

A couple of days ago, I was having dinner with two colleagues, and our conversation drifted to the topic of films and actors. As we shared our favourites, Anthony Hopkins’ name came up. I mentioned an interview I had read some time ago and the notes I had taken from it. His insights had left…

“As you set out for Ithaka,hope your road is a long one,full of adventure, full of discovery.” The opening lines of Kavafis’ poem Ithaka resonate deeply with how I view not only my career but life itself. They remind me that the journey—rich with challenges, triumphs, and lessons—is more meaningful than any single destination. When I announced…

After an intense stretch of writing through November and December, I found myself needing to step back from my book. I didn’t write a single page during the Christmas holidays. It felt necessary—time to clear my mind and regain perspective. Today, though, I finally returned to it. The freezing conditions outside gave me the perfect…