Sarah Parry
Co-Director & Lead Trainer Psychotherapist, Good Mental Health Co
• What was your favourite subject at school?
Funnily enough, sociology was my favourite subject in school. I really enjoyed learning about society, how people operate, and how communities work together.
• What was your first job?
Interestingly, my first job was working as a waitress in a department store cafe in London in 1994. I earned £2.26 an hour and all I remember is frequently making the head chef cross as he tried to decipher my terrible handwriting!
• Which is your favourite restaurant /hotel?
Mama Shelter is a fantastic chain of hotels! I first stayed in Mama Istanbul about eight years ago and was delighted when they opened one in East London recently, Mama Shoreditch. They have a quirky brand, and host interesting events www.mama shelter.com
• How do you inspire your team?
Clear and consistent personal and professional boundaries create a sense of safety in teams. In my experience, when there are good boundaries, people are able to find their own inspiration that is unique to them and feel safe and motivated at work. I also think being accountable as a leader, showing deep empathy and kindness towards colleagues, leading by example with excellence and integrity, and banning gossip are also on my list of inspirational tools!
• Which person in hospitality have you most admired / inspired you?
Gordon McIntyre! Seriously. I mean, there aren’t many people who decide to set up a charity to support the mental health and well-being of an entire country’s hospitality industry! Need I say more?
• How do you manage your stress levels?
I am a psychotherapist so I have supervision and continue with my own psychotherapy to make sure my own feelings are processed. Outside of work, I really enjoy cooking and fitness. I’ve recently fallen in love with aqua aerobics and gym training.
• Instagram, Twitter or Facebook – and why?
Twitter – I find it’s more upbeat and accessible. @thegoodmhco
• What did you do on your last day off?
What’s that? Only kidding… I love fashion and make up so I was probably Pintresting a new board and catching up on reading the latest edition of Vogue! I also love a podcast, and if anyone is interested, there’s a great one called This Jungian Life (available on Spotify), which is three very experienced therapists called Jungian Analysts talking about everyday life issues from a psychological perspective.
• What do you do to relax, to support your wellbeing?
I love spending time with my two-year old Cockapoo, Elliott. We often go on forest adventures, which I find really boosts my well-being on all levels.