1 MY WARDROBE
I wouldn’t exactly describe myself as a dandy but I do love clothes and I like to have them all neatly organised in my giant wardrobe.
It is very important to me to look my best and be neat and tidy.
I think it’s the way I was brought up, as nobody in my family would ever have considered going out without polishing their shoes first.
I don’t necessarily follow fashion but I’d like to think I am fairly stylish, even if I’m just wearing jeans and a T-shirt.
The largest amount of money I have ever spent on an item of clothing was on a Gucci coat that I bought in New York several years ago.
It cost £3,000 and when my mum found out she thought it was a complete waste of money.
However I have worn it so many times since I see it as more of an investment.
2 CANADA
I am very lucky that my career has allowed me to travel the world and visit so many wonderful places.
But I can honestly say that out of all the countries I have ever been to Canada is my favourite.
It is stunningly beautiful and the people are exceedingly friendly and accepting.
In my opinion it has the beauty of Switzerland, the space and confidence of the US and the liberal ethos of Britain.
The Canadians are proud of their country and rightly so as it really has something for everyone.
3 SOCIAL MEDIA
In our digital age the online world is often vilified but I love platforms such as Instagram and Twitter.
They are a good way to stay connected and can be a great deal of fun.
I am not someone who has an axe to grind or who likes to rant.
Instead, for me, social media represents the lighter side of life as I love looking at beautiful pictures of food, happy times and holidays.
4 WALLET
This sounds pretty obvious but I probably wouldn’t get very far without credit cards and cash and I am always very aware that I am privileged not to have to worry too much about money.
That does not mean I am irresponsible as I am quite a saver and I appreciate the sense of security that having something tucked away for a rainy day gives me.
Having said that though, I do like a splurge which is why I always have my wallet with me as you never know when you might need an emergency chocolate fix.
Being fairly careful most of the time gives me choices.
So if I want to go off and rent a villa in the sun for three months to recharge my batteries that is exactly what I’ll do.
5 GOOD HEALTH
So many people take their health for granted but that is a mistake as it is something we all need to be more proactive about.
Looking after our bodies is one of the ways in which we can try to protect ourselves and that is why I always make the effort to eat well and exercise regularly.
I go for a power walk every morning, I do regular yoga sessions and I also try to get to the gym twice a week.
But I’m not puritanical about it all because, after all, we all need to have fun.
So if I fancy the odd ice cream or pizza I’m not going to feel guilty.
Colin Jackson is the ambassador for Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions Scheme which funds and supports talented athletes across the UK. Visit easportingchampions.com for more information
