How did the Inner Compass Project Start?

Ivybridge is an extraordinary place, but it wasn’t until 2020 that I truly came to appreciate it. For twenty years, I’d lived in the area, often popping into town to run errands—grabbing groceries, a coffee, a quick visit to the dentist, or a haircut. For me, Ivybridge was simply a “get in and get out” town, a place to accomplish practical tasks.

In 2020, something within me changed. I felt a new urge to connect more deeply with my community and share a message of wellbeing. Suddenly, Ivybridge opened up to me in a new way, revealing a wealth of people, activities, groups, and a community spirit I’d previously overlooked.

Engaging with the Community

During the first few months of 2020, I began meeting with local group leaders, recording podcasts, and sending out questionnaires on wellbeing and mental health to residents. I wanted to understand the needs of the community by actively listening to its members. Initially, I thought about starting a new wellbeing group, but as I explored the wide variety of existing options—from coffee mornings to flower arranging, health clubs, and fitness groups—it became clear that Ivybridge already offered a rich choice of wellbeing activities.

Insights into Wellbeing

One surprising discovery was that each group leader believed their specific activity held the key to enhancing wellbeing. The karate instructor felt karate boosted wellbeing; the Weight Watchers leader was convinced it was the weight loss journey.

I realised there was a common misunderstanding I could help address: wellbeing isn’t something we ‘achieve’ through activities; it’s actually our natural, default state. We may lose sight of our wellbeing, but it never actually leaves us. It’s only ever our own thinking that prevents us from fully experiencing our wellbeing. If people could recognise that at a psychological level, we are fundamentally OK, it could be transformative. Just as I began exploring ways to support these leaders, the pandemic arrived, drastically shifting how I could help.

The Wellbeing Listener Programme

In March 2020, when lockdowns were announced, I wonderedt how people would cope without the groups and activities that had provided safe, nurturing spaces.

Eager to help, I decided to volunteer by creating a webinar for the community. This focused on helping people connect with their inner resilience, emphasising the power of listening—both to ourselves and to others. This was the beginning of the Wellbeing Listener Programme.

The webinars were so warmly received that we decided to set up a social enterprise to promote wellbeing and listening. The Wellbeing Listener Programme quickly grew in popularity, continuing throughout 2020-2024 with the help of grants from the local council, the National Lottery, and the Co-op.

Making Wellbeing Accessible

Eventually, I created a self-study version of the programme for just £60 (about $75), making it accessible to everyone. The Wellbeing Listener self-study programme remains available today to anyone who wishes to participate.

Building a Collaborative Community

As our activities in Ivybridge have developed we’ve brought together people who support others in the community. We call this loose gathering of wellbeing practitioners the Wellbeing Collaboration Group. Our ‘Wellbeing Collaboration’ group, made up of local charities, businesses, and event organisers, joined forces to support one another’s work. We often meet at the library, sharing cake and talking to passers-by about local happenings. This spirit of collaboration has replaced feelings of isolation with a vibrant sense of unity, as we share ideas, promote each other’s efforts, and create new opportunities for community engagement.

The Impact of Connection

As more people joined the Wellbeing Listener courses and our collaborative group, Ivybridge blossomed with a sense of partnership and togetherness. Today, the community feels more authentic, supportive, and refreshingly connected.

Come and experience Ivybridge for yourself, and join a community that thrives on connection and mutual support. Our Wellbeing Listener Self-Study programme is an excellent way to get started.

Resources & Downloads

Listening, nature and walking are deep-rooted threads that run through my work. Download my book or listen to my audio courses and meditation tracks.