I. Conaghan, Head Teacher: St. Gerard’s Primary SchoolPaula is one of the most engaging and inspiring people I have had the pleasure to listen to. Her story is one of honest endeavour, reflecting a passion for life and living. Her commitment to sport, activity and self development is a message of hope for everyone.

K. Somerville, Head Teacher: Sacred Heart Primary and NurseriesMost were expecting that Paula had some experience in sport, however it became very apparent and quite touching that her story was also about struggling to overcome her fear of water, teams, bikes… The list was extensive and the audience’s sympathy quickly changed to respect as we heard a story of courage and determination, inspiring P7 pupils and adults in the audience to conquer their fears… She left the audience motivated and delighted to have shared some part of her story. Pupils and staff felt all the more determined to ‘seize the day’ and not sit back and have any regrets in life.

Ron McArthur, Commonwealth Silver Medallist, Glasgow 2014I had the good fortune to listen to Paula Must Try Harder give a talk on her 2 year journey trying all the 17 sports in the Games. She spoke from the heart and gave a wonderful insight into how someone who had never been interested in any form of sport, struggled with difficulty to learn what was involved in each event. She suffered battle scars from some of her tasks but the obvious joy and satisfaction shone through in her telling of her journey. I, along with others in the audience, recognised her genuine delight at being able to complete her journey. This self confessed couch potato, proved that getting involved in sport can be and is fun.

Nicola Joergensen
St. Aidan’s High SchoolWhat makes Paula so inspirational is that she speaks from the perspective of the ‘shy’ and ‘reluctant’ person, someone who many people can relate to. She proves that even the least likely person can achieve incredible things with grit and determination. Every young person should hear Paula’s story to help them realise their potential sooner rather than later.

Paul Wright Active Schools Coordinator (CNHS cluster, Bellshill)
North Lanarkshire CouncilPaula is a cool person, a damn good writer and a half decent cyclist

Helen, CLD WorkerPaula stood in front of us and bared her soul. She showed us there was not a lot to be lost from doing so, and much to be gained. A wonderful, brave and inspirational woman

Laurene, Voluntary OrganisationVery honest account, with messages of hope and some very practical solutions! Thank you for sharing!

Magdalena, Parent VolunteerThank you very much to Paula for such an empowering and inspiring talk. You gave a great example of a person who suffered that much but still managed to find the power and willingness to get through a hard and long way to get your life back on the right tracks. But it's not just your incredible story made such an impact on me. It was also the way you presented it - with great sense of humour and simplicity. It all gave an amazing effect. Hope many more people would have a chance to hear you telling your story and feel as much inspired as I did. Thank you very much Paula and all the best to you!

Pattie, Principal Officer, City of Edinburgh CouncilPaula encouraged our team of facilitators and volunteers to believe they are capable of anything by using her own story of how she had overcome crippling social anxiety to achieve wonderful dreams. She promoted the value of taking risks and facing setbacks head on, if we want to have a better, more fulfilling life that is not undermined by what others may think of us. Every single person in the audience was moved and inspired.

Gillian, Parent VolunteerPaula, Many thanks for sharing your incredible story. It has given me huge insight into anxiety and how debilitating it is. As someone who seems to just get on with things, I do find it very hard to understand anxiety. Our 11 year old daughter is an anxious soul and your encouragement to keep nudging her, to keep challenging her, to keep her involved in life is a huge help. Your story and website is also invaluable for passing on to friends and neighbours who are struggling with their own children, who seem to be sadly disappearing into themselves. All strength!

Ben Smith, 401 ChallengeLiterally in tears, @pmusttryharder. I can honestly say I've genuinely never been so inspired!