Life can be hectic when you’re an event organiser, and we all know that feeling when your days are packed with deadlines, supplier calls, meetings, venue walk-throughs. Add on all the inevitable last-minute changes that come with making magic happen, it’s no wonder our industry has a reputation for being high-pressure and demanding both mentally and physically!
With a never-ending to-do list, wellness and self-care is often the last thing on our minds. You’ve most likely been hearing how important it is to keep the balance and are wondering how you’re meant to fit all the exercise and meditation sessions into an already busy schedule. The good news is you don’t need to! The small but intentional actions go a long way to help you feel grounded, focused and energised.
So here are our top tips on realistic wellness for the non-stop events professional:
- Smartly Fuel Your Body
When you’re on the go, it’s all too easy to skip meals or rely on those quick sugary snacks. There’s nothing wrong with snacking but try to vary this and keep protein-rich options on you, such as nuts, boiled eggs or protein bars.
Also, don’t forget about fruit and vegetables! If you have time to prepare a lunch, why not also add in some fresh snacks such as apples, carrots, celery, cucumber sticks or bell peppers? If you pair this with dip options such as houmous or tzatziki, you’ve got a great and healthy snack that help you stay energised and avoid that mid-afternoon crash.
It may seem obvious, but many also forget the importance of staying hydrated. Always keep a reusable water bottle on you and maybe even set reminders to refill this. You could also try adding some lemon slices of a sprig of mint to this for an extra boost of freshness.
- Breathe Between the Chaos
Just one minute of intentional breathing can reset your nervous system. Why not try a breathing pattern of inhaling, holding and exhaling for 4 counts each? If you do this just a few times between meetings, site visits or even just while waiting in a queue, it can make all the difference.
- Keep On Moving
You don’t have to fit in a full workout, micro-movements still count. Don’t forget to take a break away from your desk, even just to go up the stairs or do a few stretches while reviewing a run sheet. You could even take a call while on a walk.
Movement is also great for anchoring yourself in the moment. Focus on your breathing exercises while stretching or notice your feet hitting the ground as you walk – all these small actions can help reconnect the body and re-set your focus.
- Get Quality Sleep (Not Just Quantity)
Professionals in our sector are often working irregular hours, especially on event days. Sometimes it’s inevitable that you won’t get those full 8 hours of sleep, making it even more important to focus on the quality of the rest you do get. Here are some steps you could take if you struggle with sleep quality:
- Try and avoid looking at any screens an hour before bed.
- Keep the room you’re sleeping in a cool temperature and dark.
- Use calming sounds or meditation apps to help you wind down after a busy day.
- Set Digital Boundaries
It’s difficult to not be ‘always on’ when it comes to work – but that’s not something that’s viable for anybody in the long-term and it’s guaranteed to lead to burnout. Try to avoid sending emails after work hours, or during mealtimes. It’s good practice to set specific times to check your messages and it’s also OK to give yourself permission to unplug, even if it’s only for 20 minutes here and there.
- Give Yourself a Mind Reset
When at your desk, backstage or even in the car, stop for just one minute, close your eyes, drop your shoulders and focus on one thing you’re grateful for. Believe it or not, this tiny practice can instantly shift your mindset and lower your stress levels.
- Strategically Say No
You don’t have to be at every networking opportunity. Not every request is one that must be done. Not every task is one you must volunteer for. Don’t be afraid to say no and protect your time and energy. You’d do it for event VIPs, and who’s more important in your life than yourself?
- Build Your Wellness Toolkit
Try downloading some of the wellness apps, such as Headspace, Calm or Insight Timer to help for quick meditation practices. For mindfulness on the go, audiobooks and podcasts are also a great option for learning about creativity, resilience or mindsets.
- Accept Help
Whether it’s delegating some of your workload to a trusted team member, hiring temporary staff or leaning on friends for advice, don’t hold back from reaching out when you need a hand. Nobody has to do it all alone.
- Celebrate Small Wins
You’ve done it – you’ve successfully pulled off the event, you’ve smashed that campaign, and you’ve navigated the minefield that is stakeholder and client management. Acknowledge how awesome you are and celebrate it – there’s nothing wrong with being confident and self-motivation!
Wellness isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. When you make time for your own health, energy and mindset, you don’t just survive through your career, you thrive.
Remember – you are the magic behind these moments. Take care of the person behind the plan, and the plan will take care of itself.
It’s also very important to remember that its ok to reach out and ask for support. It’s something we encourage!
Get in touch with us today if you think we could help to support you and your team further: hello@sheeredge.co.uk or call us: 0330 223 3176
