“Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer's day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”

John Lubbock

Welcome

Summer invites us to pause. Whether you're heading off on holiday, spending time with family, making the most of lighter evenings, or simply enjoying a slower pace of life, it's the perfect opportunity to recharge. While our routines may change during these warmer months, one thing shouldn't: making time to look after your own wellbeing. In this special summer edition, we're celebrating the idea of being responsibly selfish. Our team share the activities, places and passions that help them restore their energy, build resilience and reconnect with themselves, from walking in nature and archaeology to horses and moments of quiet reflection. We hope their stories inspire you to find your own ways to pause, breathe and prioritise yourself this summer. After all, when we take better care of ourselves, we're better able to care for those around us. We hope you enjoy this edition and wish you a wonderfully Responsibly Selfish Summer.

Jayne Ellis

Managing Director, EF training Ltd

My Responsible Selfishness is called Holly!

Jayne Ellis, Managing Director

Can putting yourself first actually make you better at caring for others? In this deeply personal article, Jayne shares how anxiety and depression brought her life to a standstill, how an unexpected return to horses became the catalyst for her recovery and how riding in the forest keeps her emotionally resilient. It's an inspiring reminder that self-care isn't selfish; it's essential if we want to live well, support those we love, and continue making a difference to others.

A Summer of Responsible Selfishness!

Emily Hudd, Sales Executive

A massage and a sauna, a slow day wandering around Glastonbury, longer early morning walks with the dogs, and permission to say no. Emily shares the simple things she is doing this summer to protect her energy and her peace.

Responsible Self Care

Kate Flint, Training Manager

What if self-care isn't about spa days or expensive treats? Kate shares why she's stopped chasing perfection and started embracing what she calls being Responsibly Selfish. From letting the housework wait to learning that losing a streak isn't the same as failing, she reflects on the power of accepting her limits, protecting her energy and showing herself the same compassion she offers others. If you've ever felt guilty for putting yourself first, this is a must-read.

Digging for History, Finding Wellbeing

Trudi Davison, Trainer

What if one of the best forms of self-care involved uncovering 2,000 years of history? In this month's article, Trudi shares how her passion for archaeology has become an unexpected source of mindfulness, resilience and wellbeing. Discover why digging for Roman artefacts helps her slow down, reconnect with the present moment, and why making time for the hobbies that bring us joy is one of the most important investments we can make in our health.

Being Responsibly Selfish, Alone!

Laura Sly, Trainer

When was the last time you went for a walk on your own? In this thoughtful article, Laura explores why spending time alone in nature can be one of the simplest acts of self-care, offering space to slow down, notice the world around you, and reconnect with your own thoughts. Discover why walking solo can be a powerful way to be responsibly selfish this summer.

Why Nature Helps Regulate Stress

Nature is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce stress and boost your wellbeing. Discover how spending just 15 to 20 minutes outdoors each day can improve your mood, increase resilience, and help you feel calmer, more focused and better able to cope with life's demands.

Summer Reading Suggestions

Looking for your next great read? Whether you're seeking inspiration, a boost to your wellbeing, a gripping story or delicious summer recipes, we've put together a selection of books to enjoy over the summer months. From building positive habits and discovering the power of resilience to escaping into thought-provoking fiction, there's something for every reader.

Some Summer Podcasts!

Here are five excellent podcasts that are perfect for a summer walk, relaxing in the garden, or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Each offers practical insights to help you feel calmer, happier and more resilient.

The Four Nations Challenge, Walking!

If you're planning a walking holiday, these four make an excellent Four Nations Challenge, giving you a taste of the very best scenery across England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland without requiring advanced hiking experience.

The "I'm Fine" Podcast

We have a popular podcast hosted by our Founder, Jayne Ellis, that explores why caring people often struggle to care for themselves. Join us as we hold expert conversations with our weekly guest as they share their personal journey to building emotional resilience and explore why saying "I'm fine" is often a mask to hide behind.

Newsletter Poll

What is your ‘Responsible Selfishness’?

Last newsletter's poll results

Thank you to everyone who voted. Here is what you told us you would be clearing out this spring.

Responsibly Selfish Training

All of our training is now available pre-recorded, so you can learn at your own pace, wherever and whenever suits you. To help you make a little time for yourself this summer, we are offering 50% off every course. It is a lovely chance to invest in your own development and wellbeing for less, and to carry that responsibly selfish feeling into your working life too. Simply use code SUMMER26 at the checkout.