For many of us, life can settle into a familiar routine. Work, home, repeat. But for Tom Griffiths, 2026 has become the year of challenging himself, stepping outside his comfort zone and creating experiences rather than waiting for them to happen.
One of those experiences will see Tom jumping out of an aircraft thousands of feet above the ground in support of UKMSA. While most people would understand a little nervousness before a parachute jump, Tom admits he’s “not massive on heights” himself.
“Standing on the edge of a cliff is probably worse for me,” he laughs. “A skydive feels different because it’s a controlled environment. There are procedures, training and people who know exactly what they’re doing.”
The skydive is part of a wider personal journey that has seen Tom reassess where he is in life and where he wants to go.
A Year of Positive Change
Tom describes this year as a turning point.
“I realised I needed to change. I’ve always worked hard, but I was worried about coasting through life. I wanted to do and be better for myself.”
After spending much of his life focused on work and routine, he decided it was time to pursue experiences, challenge himself and embrace opportunities. That has included fundraising, fitness goals and becoming more intentional about the future, including plans for solo travel.
“I didn’t want to keep waiting for something to come along. I wanted to start creating experiences for myself.”
The changes have already had a noticeable impact.
Recently, Tom completed his first-ever 10-kilometre run, something he admits would have seemed unlikely not so long ago.
“It’s been really good mentally. I feel healthier and better in myself. I’m much more self-aware now and can recognise when I’m starting to slide back into old habits.”
Perhaps most importantly, he says he’s no longer willing to drift through life without direction.
Supporting Men’s Health
Although Tom doesn’t have a direct personal connection to men’s health charities, he was introduced to UKMSA through someone who leases space to a Men’s Shed.
Learning more about the organisation and the support it provides inspired him to get involved and raise funds.
His upcoming skydive will help support UKMSA’s work while also serving as a personal reminder of what can be achieved when you decide to push beyond your comfort zone.
If you’d like to support Tom’s skydive fundraiser, you can donate here .
Time to Recharge
Before the jump, Tom is looking forward to a well-earned break in Cyprus with a long-standing group of friends and their families.
The trip has become a tradition, taking place every other year and usually timed to coincide with either the World Cup or European Championships.
As a passionate England supporter, he’ll be cheering on the Three Lions, although he admits the kick-off times can sometimes make following every game a challenge.
Quick-Fire Round
Coffee or tea?
Coffee – milk, no sugar.
Early bird or night owl?
Definitely an early bird, especially since making recent lifestyle changes.
Favourite place you’ve visited?
Newcastle upon Tyne. As a lifelong Newcastle United supporter – thanks to his dad – Tom loves the way the city comes together around football. He’s been visiting for years and is already looking forward to returning next season.
One word your friends would use to describe you?
“Kind. Funny. And probably a bit silly. I’m not afraid to make a tit of myself.”
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Tom’s answer comes from his own experience:
“If you want to change and grow, you have to motivate yourself. Talking about doing something and actually doing it are very different things. Real change comes from taking action.”
For Tom, that philosophy has already led him to new experiences, improved health and a fresh outlook on life. The next challenge? Taking that leap into the sky.