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I wake up very early every day. The first thing I do is take a long walk outside. The air feels fresh on my face. Sometimes I stop at a small shop. I buy a hot cup of coffee and some eggs. I eat them while I walk. I feel very lucky for my life. My work as a singer is a dream come true. I am so happy for the concerts I will do this year. I think about how blessed I am. This simple start helps me feel ready for the day.
Social media can show a dark side of people. The internet lets strangers say mean things. They often say cruel words without knowing anyone. It feels like the world is less kind now. I try very hard not to complain about small problems. I think many people complain because they feel unsure. They often feel bad about themselves deep down. It is better to stay positive. This helps me keep a clear mind. I choose to focus on good things only.
I have many different dreams for my life. I once wanted to be a drummer. Or maybe I wanted to drive a big truck in America. I like the idea of driving there. I would listen to the radio the whole time. I used to eat a lot of chocolate bars. That was a bad habit for my health. Now, I eat only one small piece with my coffee. I do not want any more sweets than that. This change has made me feel much better.
I love spending time with the people I care about. Being on a beach with my family is special. We watch the sunset together slowly. We share a cool drink and talk. That feels like the best life has to offer. I also go for walks in the woods. I listen to music while I walk. Bands like Biffy Clyro and Foo Fighters can change my mood. Their rock music is powerful and strong. It pulls me out of a bad feeling very quickly. Music is a great helper for the heart.
I read a famous book called The Road Less Travelled. The author is M. Scott Peck. This book helped me over thirty years ago. It is a self-help book based on therapy ideas. It changed how I saw my own life. I used to think rich people had no problems at all. I thought their lives were perfect. Now I know everyone faces challenges. This is true no matter their background or money. Success does not mean you never have trouble.
My parents worked very hard all their lives. They had a tough life full of struggles. They lost a son before I was even born. They were very strong but quiet about their pain. They taught me to think about feelings first. Usually, eating or drinking too much is the main issue. It shows we are worried. But I wake up early if I am excited. I get up for a new song. Then I go to the studio to work on it. Hard work and passion drive me forward every day.
I worry that my success could end one day. Ten years ago, I was not playing in big arenas. Success does not last forever for anyone. I wonder when things will change for me. I know the world is more complex than it seems. Leaders like Presidents or Prime Ministers are not truly in control. They have many problems they cannot fix alone. You have to think for yourself and take charge. No one else will fix your life for you. We must all take responsibility for our own actions.
Enjoy your twenties more while you can. I became more private after my big hits. I did not like talking about my personal life. But I would not change my past. I am happy where I am now. I accept my history and my future. Rick Astley is on tour in the UK from April 10 to April 25. His book, Never, is out now. It shares more stories about his life. You can read it to learn more about him.