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Learning Lab: The Goldilocks Principle - Finding The Sweet Spot

Learning Labs
September 24, 2025

What happens when we have too much of a good thing?

Much of our work is focused on nurturing positive things — wellbeing, engagement, belonging, innovation, compassion, communication… the list goes on. But even the best intentions can go awry when pushed too far. So how do we find the sweet spot?

In this Learning Lab, Gordon Ryan invites us to reflect on how generally positive concepts can have an optimum point of effectiveness — and how to recognise when we’ve gone beyond it. Like Goldilocks, we’re looking for what’s just right.

What to Expect:

Together we’ll explore what the science says about having too much of a good thing, drawing on ideas from inverted-U theory, eustress and distress, and organisational research. We’ll reflect on our own contexts and practices, and share insights about how to stay intentional — and effective — in our efforts to create positive impact. As ever, this Lab offers a creative and comfortable space for challenge, community and learning.

– This session was designed by Gordon Ryan.

Inspired by this Learning Lab content?

If you would you like to run a Learning Lab like this in your organisation please email info@managementfutures.co.uk and we can talk through the next steps.


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