I’ve been off the networking circuit for a few weeks.

Not for any strategic reason. Just life and work. The desk has been full, the breadth of high-priority tasks wider, and I found myself feeling overwhelmed. I was also annoyed at myself, because networking is one of those things I know matters, but it quietly slipped down the list. Something had to give, and for a short while, it was that.

Then, out of the blue, I got a call from David Brock, Managing Director of Your Partnerships, the night before a networking walk at Haldon Forest. He asked if I could help him out and host the session in the morning. His words were dramatic enough to make me laugh, something along the lines of saving his life. Without really thinking, I said yes. That’s all fine.

And just like that, I was back in it.

By chance, I met Tim Braund in the car park. I assumed he was just another walking pal. Turns out he works primarily on the Feel Good in the Forest programme with Forestry England, and he was meeting an NHS worker for a walk too. We got talking about the value of stepping away from the grind and getting out into nature.

Growing up in Lydford, right next to the woods, I realise now how privileged I was. I’m naturally drawn back to woodland spaces. They have a huge calming effect on me, but they also stir something else. The senses wake up. You feel smaller. Nature can be kind, but it can also be harsh and unforgiving. That contrast is humbling. Maybe that’s the thrill seeker in me.

We were joined by Paul from Backworld in Exeter, along with his black dog, Frank Turner, who came with us on the walk. Paul and I talked about how our businesses started and what life is really like running them day to day. Not the glossy bits, but the admin, the marketing, the effort required to keep revenue moving.

We talked about work-life balance, and both agreed ours feels pretty good right now. Hearing Paul talk about six years of owning the business, which he took over from a previous owner, gave me perspective. It made me feel like I still have a long way to go, but also that now is a perfect time to put strong habits in place. The things you do early set you up for the future, whether you realise it or not.

Paul mentioned he’s been meaning to start a podcast for ages. I encouraged him to do it. A lot of the content I consume comes from London or the United States. There’s real value in hearing from local business owners, people dealing with similar realities, in similar places.

After a cream tea and a cup of tea at the café, I drove back to Exeter feeling lighter. Reminded that networking does not always have to be forced, formal or transactional. Sometimes it’s just about being in the room, or in this case, in the forest, and letting conversations happen.

I’m glad I went. And I’m looking forward to doing more of it again.