Xen (pronounced as ZEN), founder of the X-Factor Human Performance Systems, knows full well how choices can affect outcomes. In this photo gallery, Xen shares his very own life changing experiences with you.
1973 - Change
The war in Cyprus where I was born, was the catalyst for the family to emigrate to Australia. Moving to a new country, assimilating into a different society, surrounded by the unfamiliar and coping with the language barrier, was a frightening experience. I immersed myself in these changes of which learning to speak English was by far the most challenging.
1986/90 - Disappointment vs Empowerment
I am extremely competitive. My commitment paid off when I was selected for the Australian Basketball League. But, I broke my ankle which dashed all hopes of being accepted into the professional league. Despite my injury, I was determined to contribute to the sporting world. Study seemed to be a wise choice so I opted for university. However, my miserable high school scores worked against me and I reluctantly sat an entrance exam. Much to my delight, I was accepted and began studies in sports science at the University of Wollongong. This decision kick-started my love affair with what it felt like to be empowered!
1993/94- Adventure
I embarked on a long-awaited traveling adventure. Back-packing around the world for one year! My travels presented many outstanding opportunities to meet and connect with inspirational individuals. (Little did I know that one of them was to be my future wife, Elynn). Everything happens for a reason?
1996 - Transition
Travel highlight - attending the Anthony Robbins Unlimited Power event. The aftermath of which had a profound effect on my life. Shortly after my return to Sydney, I made the life-changing decision to travel yet again. This time the destination was Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I arrived with just 50 bucks in my wallet. Elynn was waiting for me and any doubts I might have had about our relationship, vanished. We comfortably picked up where left off and together, we started our Personal Training business.
1997 - Inspiration
When we met Shahimah (Charmaine) Idris, she was very focussed on improving her already commendable exercise regime. But then, tragedy struck. She sustained a spinal cord injury as a result of a robbery. For nearly five months, Elynn and I trained Shahimah while she recuperated in hospital. Our goal was to get Shahimah "weaned" off the wheelchair. We became inseparable as we embarked on what has become an everlasting friendship. Nearly three years after her accident, our dear friend was finally able to walk with the help of elbow crutches.Shahimah's misfortune has left us with an indelible memory - do not take anything or anyone for granted.
1999 - Love
Nearly six years after meeting Elynn, I finally plucked up the courage and proposed. I embarked on a brand new phase in my life. That of one spent alongside a life-long partner, friend, confidante, lover and wife.
2001 - Enlightenment
Ah! Like globe-trotting, climbing a mountain was also on my bucket list. As newlyweds, Elynn and I agreed to not only climb the magnificent Mt Kinabalu but also traverse the famous Great Wall of China. What an exhilirating experience! We were euphoric about our accomplishments. Feat over, we then both agreed to relocate to Australia. Permanently!
2005 - Passion
As a child, my inability to speak was worrisome. The doctor's prognosis was "when he's ready to speak, he will." It was not until I turned six that I actually began to speak. I have an inkling that this unpleasant event has somehow fueled my desire for public speaking. As a public speaker, I have had the opportunity to address the global community. Along with my mentors and peers, I have contributed to many highly revered international forums. As a professional member with the National Speakers Association of Australia, my passion and reputation as a public speaker has garnered much success.
2005/07 - Achievement
To expand my mind ... to shake the foundation of my comfort zone. Let's face it, I'm somewhat of a glutton when it comes to learning something new. The thought usually keeps me buzzing for days and I am compelled to act. So I decided that my next learning curve would be a grueling self-development regime. I momentarily appeased my (learning curve) "demons" when I achieved the distinction of Master NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming).
2010 - Loss
Like most parents, my father influenced my life in many ways. I will forever be grateful to him for not only being an admirable parent but also for ensuring that I continue to cherish the values he taught me. They have enriched my journey in life. My father finally succumbed to his illness leaving behind his legacy - me!
2011 - Change
"To exist is to Change, to Change is to Mature, to mature is to go on Creating Oneself Endlessly." - Henri Bergson
This was a year of retrospection and transformation. My father's passing affected me in profound and poignant ways. 2011 was a very challenging year for many on a global scale, in varying perspectives. In order to embrace change, I find that the human spirit is indomitable, that we have the abilities to stretch ourselves to re-claim and re-establish the equilibrium in our mind, body and spirit.
2012 - ReSurgence
"The biggest adventure you can ever take is to live the life of your dreams." - Oprah Winfrey
Change begins here. Change begins now!