Luke Humphries
Are you a darts fan? I’m not, but even I noticed the incredible story of the two players who contested the World Darts Final. Perhaps the most newsworthy player was Luke Littler, a 16 year old rookie. But for me the most remarkable player was his opponent, Luke Humphries, who eventually won. Humphries has in the last few years transformed his life. He has overcome crippling anxiety and lost weight to make the most of his talents.
Humphries, whose nickname is ‘Cool Hand Luke’ in reference to the 1967 film, was a Roofer until 2018. But after winning several Tour Dart tournaments in 2017 he decided to pursue a career in dart full time. After some initial success, he suffered an attack of anxiety in 2019 while playing in the German Open. Suddenly immobilised by anxiety he was 5-2 up against James Wade, but went on to lose 6-5. The effects of this led him to consider his future in the sport.
Career Crisis
Speaking about this time he said, “I am very open and honest about that and it is something I am very proud of because about two years ago, it was a time in my life where I wasn’t enjoying darts and I contemplated giving it up because it was just affecting me so badly”. He went on to say, “It has proven that you don’t have to give up on things just because of anxiety, it is beatable. I still get it, but I manage it much better now and it doesn’t affect me much in darts anymore which is the key thing for me. It allows me to play at my full potential”.
Lifestyle Changes
He also chose to use his time during the Cov-id lockdowns to lose weight and to improve his stamina and performance. In a tweet in February 2021 he said, “Really working hard towards the new darting season in a few weeks! Lost over 2 stone since Christmas. On reflection big changes were needed to myself to get to that next level in my career! I’m practising harder than I ever have. Hoping the rewards will pay off this year!”
He later went on to say, “I feel really good, I feel full of energy. The hard work that I’ve put in through lockdown is helping me in that aspect and hopefully it carries me through to being a better player in the future”.
Finally
I think Luke is an inspiration. What he has achieved is a shining example of how we can make changes in our lives. My mission is to help people overcome their personal obstacles by inspiring and facilitating change in their lives, in order to create a life full of purpose, meaning and joy.
I am a dedicated therapist and I believe that all humans have an innate ability to become the best versions of themselves. My passion is to awaken the inner warrior in people and reunite them with who they truly are. This can be done with traditional hypnotherapy to treat unwanted habits, conditions and feelings. Or it may be through exploring past experiences or lives to see if they are the root cause. To find out more, contact me.
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