The Square Peg world

My book, my music, my live show, and the ideas behind my coaching.

The Memoirs of the Square Peg

The Memoirs of the Square Peg is the story of my own self-realisation: who I really am, and what I’m going to do about it. It’s a tongue-in-cheek look at life that asks that old question: what the…?
I had gone full circle. I had followed the rules and collected the things that were supposed to make me happy. It hadn’t worked. In fact I had become unhappy and had no idea why. It was time to find out.
The book is part of a wider idea, square peg people, and comes with a soundtrack, The Songs of a Square Peg, written while I wrote it. Audiobook coming soon.

The Songs of a Square Peg

I’ve played in cover bands and solo all over the world for over 30 years. I wrote my own songs from my late teens, but it took me much longer to see that music was part of my purpose. I released my first album in 2021, then a single and an EP.
Too many of us leave our passions and talents by the wayside because life takes us somewhere else. If you follow yours, you’ll be amazed at how your life unfolds.
All my music is on Spotify, Apple Music and the other streaming platforms. Listen, and tell me what you think.

Square Peg People Sessions

My Square Peg People Sessions are a live one-man show based on each chapter of the book, with songs from the soundtrack. It’s an interactive, tongue-in-cheek look at life: funny, sad and outright ridiculous. The whole idea is a demonstration that if you do it you’ll do it, and if you don’t you won’t.
Proceeds go to Positive Scotland. I also deliver workshops, seminars and talks.

Watch and listen

YouTube: What’s Tam Up To Now? Videos, coaching insights and performances.
The Unknown Podcast. Listen to a discussion of the book.

What readers say

“Well I grew up in the same town as Tam and can totally relate to everything he says, only wish that we had the courage to speak about our feelings ‘back in the day’. We all could have helped each other so much. Tam’s words will resonate with you all in some way. His book made me think, made me smile, laugh out loud at some parts and even brought a wee tear. Well done Tam, loved your book, well worth a read guys.” Jill Clark, UK
“Tam’s book is written eloquently and for me was very relatable. It’s not often I pick up a book and am instantly engaged. Tam digs holes in the systems that keeps us small and offers his insights/practices to keep yourself true to your purpose. An excellent read.” Anonymous
“Thoroughly enjoyable read. Tam takes no prisoners and his insight really chimed with my own thoughts. Whether or not you identify as a spiritual being, there is plenty in this book that will chime with you. I read this book twice in two days and I expect this will be one I will reference and recommend for years to come. Brilliant. A classic for our times.” Caroline Langlands, UK

What is personal coaching?

Coaching is a form of learning where a coach supports someone to make progress: to reach a goal, solve a problem, or create learning and change. It is a conversation, or a series of conversations, in person, by phone or online, built around your objectives.
A good coach blends questioning, listening, observation and feedback. You get focus and attention on your own situation, which builds awareness and understanding, and gives you fresh ways to resolve issues and reach your goals.
  • A clearer sense of direction and focus
  • Faster learning in an area that matters to you, such as relationships or managing people
  • Better results at work, in your health or with your finances
  • More self-awareness
  • More personal effectiveness, with your effort on your priorities
  • More motivation
  • More resourcefulness and resilience when things change
No. Training follows a fixed agenda. Coaching is flexible and follows your objectives. We both shape the direction of each session, and the learning carries on afterwards through the actions you agree to take.
No. Some issues, such as addiction or mental ill health, are best supported by someone trained in those areas. But coaching can be a real alternative for things like milder anxiety, a crisis of confidence or self-doubt, because it builds self-awareness. Often we know our own answers and just need support to act on them. If you are struggling, please speak to your GP.
No. Coaching assumes you are responsible for the results you create, and that means you also have the power to change them. I’ll help you understand your situation, find new approaches and take action. I won’t instruct you or act on your behalf, because that would take your power away.
Yes. I follow a coaching code of ethics, and what we talk about in sessions is private. Where someone else has arranged the coaching, such as an employer, school or parent, we agree together at the start how they will be kept involved.

Your story isn’t finished.

It might just be getting started. Book a free 30-minute discovery call. No pressure, no commitment. Just a conversation.
If you do it you’ll do it, and if you don’t you won’t.