The events industry thrives on passion, but at what cost to our wellbeing? This was the question that Mike Ford, founder of Grateful Lemon and champion of human sustainability, posed during the Rocco Forte Hotels 2025 Meetings & Events Showcase.
Before his think tank session, attendees completed a survey about their mental state, both in and out of work, providing a stark backdrop for the discussion.
The data mirrored broader industry trends: while most loved their jobs, alarming numbers reported feeling overwhelmed, constantly worried, and struggling to focus. But, as Mike noted, the score in isolation is irrelevant - the real question is: what trajectory are you on?
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By changing our perception of stress and fostering open dialogue within our organisations, we can create a future where passion and wellbeing go hand in hand.
As the groups discussed the ‘always-on’ nature of the industry, its perceived hustle culture, and the overall decline in wellbeing, Mike’s goal was simple - to empower attendees to create sustainable habits, allowing them to thrive, not just survive, in the work environment.
Attendees were encouraged to share personal circumstances contributing to their stress in a safe and open space, and Mike worked with the group to address and problem-solve these specific challenges, offering proven, practical solutions that could be implemented immediately, both in and outside the workplace.
Discussing the ‘dance between stress and recovery’, Mike guided the group through specific breathwork techniques - to aid anxiety or promote clarity - and drummed home the importance of creating moments of rest during the work day. A particularly popular notion was the 90-30 principle - 90 minutes of focused work, followed by an unapologetic 30-minute break - which several attendees were keen to implement with their teams.
The impact of Mike's work was evident. Hannah, an attendee who had previously participated in a workshop with him, shared how she and her team had implemented his advice - such as starting team-wide meetings with a few minutes of breathwork to shift focus - and had seen significant improvements in wellbeing and productivity. This real-world example underscored the practical value of Mike's message.
While industry-wide change is crucial, the importance of individual responsibility cannot be overstated. Small steps can make a significant difference. As the events industry continues to evolve, prioritising wellbeing must remain at the forefront
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Mike’s goal was simple - to empower attendees to create sustainable habits, allowing them to thrive, not just survive, in the work environment.
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