Shellfish or Selfish? A Business Lesson in Disguise
Let’s talk about something that might make you itch, sweat, or sprint to a posh portable loo: food allergies. Sexy topic? Maybe not. Necessary? Absolutely.
Now I’m not here to steal anyone’s lunch, but as someone with a full-blown allergy to everything from the sea, I’ve learned the hard way that not everyone takes allergies seriously. I’m not quite at the EpiPen stage yet — but trust me, I’m getting closer than I’d like. My body has a very expressive way of reacting. Hives, rashes, vomiting — the works. Basically, if it once had a shell or swam, I’d better not have a bite.
The other day, I went to a stunning, high-end networking event. The kind where the sandwiches are square and the water comes in bottles fancier than my shampoo. It was gorgeous. Until it wasn’t.
Because, despite asking (politely, clearly, and twice), something had clearly crept onto my plate that shouldn’t have. Within minutes I was sweating, bloated, turned a strange colour and was now negotiating peace with my own stomach — in a very upmarket portable loo, no less. Thank goodness my best friend was with me, who, by the way, also has her own fabulous list of allergies. Between the two of us, we make kitchen teams twitch.
We still had a brilliant day. But it got me thinking…
When someone shares a health issue — food, mental wellbeing, a physical challenge — how often do we really listen? And how often do we just assume, “It’ll be fine”?
Because let’s be honest. In business (and in life), we sometimes treat other people’s issues like they’re optional extras. A bit inconvenient. Possibly exaggerated. Something that’ll be alright in the end.
But what if it isn’t?
We’d never dream of handing a coeliac a croissant, or popping peanuts in a toddler’s lunchbox — but when it comes to grown-up business events, the message can get lost in the fancy menus and fast-paced logistics.
So here’s my plea: don’t be shellfish.
If someone tells you they’ve got a dietary requirement, a health condition, a sensory sensitivity, or just a thing they need to be mindful of — believe them. Ask twice. Make it your business to get it right. Because when someone says “this could make me unwell,” they’re not being awkward. They’re trying to stay upright.
It’s Not Just Food
This is bigger than just allergies. It’s about creating environments — at events, in meetings, in the workplace, on Zoom — where people feel heard, safe, and respected. Because when you take someone’s thing seriously, they notice. They relax. They trust you. And that’s when the real connection happens.
So, the next time someone gives you their list of needs, don’t roll your eyes or skim the email.
Listen. Learn. Lean in. And lead with care.
Because if we can’t do that — whether we’re running events, hosting clients, or just grabbing lunch — then maybe the real problem isn’t the shellfish.
Maybe it’s being selfish!
