Mental health advocate and psychotherapist George Downey MBE has created a new development programme to help business leaders bring greater consistency between their work and personal lives. The five-stage system is intended to improve wellbeing, reduce burnout and help participants achieve meaningful change within 90 days.
A former RAF serviceman with 20 years of military experience, George transitioned into psychotherapy after witnessing the impact that misalignment between personal values and workplace expectations can have on leaders.
Through his company, Integra Wellbeing and Performance, he delivers Lead From Your C.O.R.E.S, a programme focused on helping managers build healthier habits, stronger relationships and improved self-awareness.
“Work-life balance is absolutely critical, yet it is something many people still overlook,” said George.
“For many years, I worked alongside leaders and noticed a clear difference between the person they were in their private lives and the person they presented at work.
“People often feel they have to fit into a professional role that does not fully reflect who they are. Bringing those two identities closer together can have a powerful impact on wellbeing, effectiveness and satisfaction.”
The C.O.R.E.S model is built around five key elements: Clarity, Observation, Rules, Exchange and Stride.
“Clarity helps individuals define what matters most to them, including their values, strengths, purpose and long-term direction. Observation develops awareness of behaviour, relationships and the environment around us,” George said.
“Rules focuses on evaluating personal and professional standards and boundaries. Participants explore where those boundaries support them and where adjustments may be needed.
“Exchange examines communication and relationships across all areas of life. It encourages people to assess whether their interactions are productive and, where necessary, renegotiate expectations to create healthier outcomes.
“Stride brings everything together through goal-setting, action and reflection. Participants identify achievable objectives, take meaningful steps forward and learn from their progress.”
George’s commitment to mental health stems from personal experience.
“Over the past four decades, I have lost four members of my family to suicide,” he said.
“My maternal grandfather, my uncle, my father and my brother all took their own lives.”
The death of his brother ultimately inspired his career change.
“My brother Pat passed away in 2020 at just 25 years old,” George explained.
“That loss prompted me to pursue psychotherapy. While still serving in the RAF, I spent five years studying during evenings and eventually qualified as a therapist.
“In 2022, my wife Cindy and I undertook a 350-mile fundraising and awareness walk from Glasgow to St Neots in Cambridgeshire. We completed the journey over 14 days, averaging 25 miles each day.
“I have since spent two years in private practice, supporting people affected by suicide, including individuals referred through specialist charities following suicide attempts.”
His dedication to supporting others has earned significant recognition. George received a commendation from Her Majesty The Queen in 2022 and was later awarded an MBE for services to mental health and personal and professional development.
To learn more about George Downey MBE and the Lead From Your C.O.R.E.S programme, visit integra-wellbeing-and-performance.co.uk.
