From his days as an All Black to his current work with the incredible All Blacks Experience and community initiatives like Eddie’s Meals, Ian Jones has lived it all – enjoying the exhilarating highs of elite sport while also navigating the challenges life off the field can bring.
In this article, Ian reflects on the importance of resilience, the people who have supported him through life’s twists and turns, and the lessons learned from both victory and defeat. He shares how he’s navigated career transitions, maintained a focus on wellbeing and stayed true to his values.
The lessons Ian learned in the black jersey, about consistency, perseverance and the importance of enjoying the journey, have stayed with him, proving just as valuable in life off the field as they were on it.
Feeling blessed
When I look back on my life, the word that always comes to mind is blessed. Blessed with the family I have, the support around me, and the people I have in my corner. Life is never a straight line and it’s full of rocky patches, but I’ve never had to face them alone.
That’s why I just try to do my bit to give back and support others, whether it’s through running the Eddie’s Meals community kitchen or ensuring I’m there for the important people in my life.
Finding balance
Balance is everything for me. I think about life in buckets: family, fitness, work, community and myself. If those buckets are in sync, life feels good. But if one gets out of kilter – too much time at work, not enough time with friends or neglecting self-care – then things quickly fall out of place.
It’s not selfish to look after yourself. In fact, it’s necessary. You can’t give if you have nothing left to give.
I keep balance through planning and structure, but I’ve also learned that things don’t always go to plan. Being adaptable and resetting when life throws you off track is just as important.
Life after rugby
When I stepped away from professional sport, I thought I’d finally have a ‘normal’ life, with no more structured training sessions or schedules. But within months I realised that structure is my normal. Routine, goals and having something to aim for are what keep me motivated.
So, I started entering events again. Not for the medals, but for the focus and the energy. It gave me purpose and accountability, especially when I told others what I was working toward and brought them along for the ride. That community became my support network, helping me find my way beyond rugby.
Resetting in tough times
When I feel like I’m running on empty, connection is what resets me. Connecting with family, friends or training partners who share a goal gives me energy. I’m inspired by people of all walks of life pushing themselves out of their comfort zones, whether they’re athletes or parents balancing busy lives.
Storytelling plays a big part in this too. Hearing other people’s journeys reminds me that none of us are on an island. Sharing experiences connects us, motivates us, and often lifts us out of a funk.
The role of community
My family will always be the first to notice when something’s off, and their support is everything. But I also lean on wider circles, including my colleagues, training partners and friends. Sometimes it’s not about solving problems, it’s just about checking in and being present.
When we connect, we grow support networks. Those networks can turn anyone into a leader or an inspiration, often without them even realising it. That’s the power of community.
Lessons from the All Blacks
There are no secrets to success. Hard work trumps everything. But if I had to name the biggest lesson rugby taught me, it would be consistency. Show up the same way every day. Small, consistent efforts add up.
Alongside consistency, perseverance is vital. Goals are hard to achieve, and you need to stick at them step by step.
But the lesson I didn’t fully learn until after my rugby career is to have fun along the way. Sport can be stressful, but life beyond the game has taught me to enjoy the ride.
For me, goal setting is a cycle: set, achieve, celebrate, reset. Too often in New Zealand we downplay achievements, but I believe it’s important to celebrate milestones before moving on to the next one.
Health as a foundation
Looking after my health is everything, including my physical, mental and emotional health.
Fitness keeps me grounded. But it’s also about connection. Training with others combines health with community, filling up multiple buckets for me at once.
Taking care of yourself takes courage, because most people are natural givers. But if you don’t make time for your own wellbeing, you won’t have the energy to give to others.
Choosing your attitude
If there’s one thought I’d leave people with, it’s this: attitude is everything. Life is full of highs and lows, but you set your tone, your outlook and your attitude.
I know I speak from a place of privilege, but privilege isn’t just financial. It’s also the privilege of being part of a family, of being the inspiration in your group, of having people who have your back.
Tough times always pass, and so do the good times. That’s the ride. What makes the difference is how you choose to approach it. When you treat people well, they treat you well. When you speak up, others listen. And when you connect, you realise you’re never alone on the journey.
