A lot of my work as a coach involves getting people to see the bigger picture. It's easy to get bogged down in detail and not pay enough attention to the outcome you're looking for. I've had to remind myself of this when considering whether or not to wear a cycle helmet on the new hire bikes in London that I've become so fond of.

The outcome any cyclist wants when considering a helmet is to be as safe as possible on the road. Common sense tells us that that helmets do offer a level of protection.

Working back from this desired outcome of optimum safety on the road, it is interesting that so many cyclists take so many ridiculous risks even if they are proudly wearing a cycling helmet. Many go through red lights as a matter of course. Many do not indicate. Lots overtake on the inside (left) of cars, lorries and buses. Some wear headphones and talk on the phone while riding along busy roads. Others ride on pavements and the wrong way up one-way streets - yes, probably wearing a helmet.

If many of these cyclists were to remind themselves why they're actually wearing a helmet, they would probably take far fewer unnecessary risks leading to optimum safety.

Thinking about the bigger picture in different situations, I often find that clients will focus on one aspect of a solution. Encouraging them to think more broadly while focussing on desired outcomes often leads to amazing results.

My sister gave me a household tip this week, which is very useful in itself and can also be transferred to non-household tasks.

'Land' your laundry.

When you've done a load of washing, dry it, fold it and put it away before starting another load. This prevents the dreaded back-log of folding and putting away - simple but very effective.

I'm going to start doing the same with my paperwork. I've spent years opening envelopes (three weeks worth) and then putting the contents into neat piles and leaving them for another three weeks. Or more. Now, the plan is to file paperwork immediately, even if it's in the bin.

I'm just wondering if this 'landing' idea can be used anywhere else. I'll report back.

I cycled in London for years. It was quick, fun, convenient, kept me fit and the list could go on. The only trouble was that my bikes used to get pinched on a fairly regular basis. Usually it was my fault and I hadn't secured it properly. About four years ago, I decided that enough was enough when one was stolen out of the garden shed. I'd also had enough of the laborious chaining up business so have been walking and taking the bus ever since, which I've enjoyed.

That was until London's new bike hire scheme arrived. I love it. There's a hire point two minutes from my front door and they're also dotted around at convenient points all over London. The bikes are solid and easy to ride and I don't need to worry about maintenance. It's also very inexpensive.

So I'm falling in love with the cycling experience all over again. Thank you London!