Aussie cricket legend’s daughter reveals how she learns from her mistakes
The daughter of Aussie cricket legend Matthew Hayden reveals how she’s paving her own way in the industry and opens up on life, fitness and her sliding doors moment.
QWeekend
Don't miss out on the headlines from QWeekend. Followed categories will be added to My News.
She’s the daughter of cricketing legend Matthew Hayden but Grace Hayden is paving her own way in the media. She discusses how she keeps fit, how she deals with the critics and embarrassing on-air faux pas.
What is your perfect Saturday?
Moving my body first up in the morning is always my perfect way to start the day whether that’s getting a workout or pilates or going for a run/walk. Then heading to the farmers’ market for some fresh produce and flowers while I enjoy a coffee. Spending time with friends and family and my two cattle dogs, Archie and Alfie is also a must.
Where and when do you exercise?
Every day I like to get some sort of movement in. Travelling a lot makes it difficult at times but I find the days you don’t feel like exercising are the days you finish a workout and feel 1000 times better both mentally and physically. When I’m home in Australia I find Fitstop the perfect place to train because no matter where I am I know there’s always one nearby.
What are your top three fitness tips? Being organised is my top one. I find if I schedule in a workout of the mornings I can make it happen. Consistency is key. And good quality sleep and eating a healthy well-balanced diet.
What is the most underrated secret when it comes to improving health and wellbeing?
Listening to your body. I find different days, weeks or even months your body and mind need and want different things so it’s really important to acknowledge that in myself. I believe health shouldn’t feel like an extra pressure or stress in your life, we all already have enough of that. Do things you enjoy!
What is the most embarrassing on-air moment you’ve had? I love my job, I’m so lucky and grateful for what I do. The amazing thing about working in live TV is the magic often comes from your tiny mistakes, a little fumble here and there, is always going to happen …! It’s how you move on in the moment from those mistakes is what I’ve learnt to be key. Acknowledge it, have a chuckle and move on.
Most challenging thing you’ve been through? I’ve been lucky to travel the world since I was a newborn with my family to support my dad (ex-cricketer Matthew Hayden). From 16, however, I began to pave my way in modelling and now TV and media which requires a lot of alone time in new cities and countries and hours in the sky. At first you’re out of your comfort zone, but you quickly learn to adapt, make friends, explore and make new routines on the road … learning to be comfortable in the uncomfortable.
What is a sliding door moment in your life? When I deferred my degree in occupational therapy to pursue what I’m doing now. When you work hard to achieve a good score in school and get into what you think at the time is your dream career and choose to defer as a competitive-natured person that inner battle felt at the time like I was giving up. But since that moment I’ve never looked back and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.
Who is the most competitive person in your family? I would say all of us to some extent. But look I’d definitely be up there on the competitive scale of our family. I’m the type of person that gives everything my all 100 per cent of the time and forever challenge family, friends or my poor partner to anything.
Did your dad ever use his cricket skills for something completely random at home? Definitely his on-field banter has carried on into the family. He loves a pot stir!
Best piece of advice your dad has given you? Your friends know who you are, your family knows who you are. And the rest don't matter. Blocking out the noise is so important and something I’m proud to say I’ve learnt to do well over the years because if you don’t it would crush you.
What is the worst thing someone has said to you? That I can’t achieve my goals or you won’t be able to do something. But I use this as fuel and motivation to prove people wrong.
What makes you happiest? Spending time with my family, my dogs, my partner, my friends and being anywhere in or around the water. Also, living a healthy and active lifestyle.
What is the most important lesson life has taught you? Trust who you are and always remember your morals and core beliefs. I believe it helps keep you grounded, humble and attracts good people in your life.
Brooki vs Nagi: Stunning fallout no one ever saw coming
The plagiarism battle between two of Australia’s most well-known cooks blew up like metal in a microwave, but no one could have predicted what was to come next.
Wedding night shock: ‘It was so much bigger than we expected’
A Brisbane couple opens up on their quirky wedding, the surprising detail that made the ceremony and the late-night reveal that had both reacting in shock.