This week is the TEDxMileHighWomen, “It’s About Time” conference and I can’t wait. Although my excitement stems partly from offering A Table In Time’s “Conversation Café’” at the conference, I’m super psyched to feel inspired and learn from the many dynamic speakers on stage, bringing us their “ju-ju” and smarts!
Admittedly I have nervous energy, too. Attending and serving a big venue can feel intimidating…just because it’s big and there’s so much to see and consider! And it might even be loud! With so many attendees and an accompanying large “download” of information, a large conference can overwhelm us!
Don’t feel deterred! Here are suggestions to make the most of an inspiring conference opportunity- we’ve got this!
Visit intention
Why did you sign up in the first place? Before picking up registration materials, reflect on why you decided to attend the conference. What drew you in? A clear intent will guide our actions. For me and why I’m more than enthusiastic about TED…I want to expose myself to new ideas that will improve my contributions to the world. Also I want to reflect on my own “It’s About Time” gifts?
As an “experience” vendor my goal is for women to engage fully in the questions through thoughtful conversation. By conversing and exploring insights with other dynamo attendees, conference participants will begin to integrate messaging from the talks. The Conversation Café (my “experience”) strives to enable the brave and the knowing in each of us.
Review the materials
Conference organizers compile lots of goodies. Besides the granola bars, become familiar with the schedule and the many offerings. You’ve made a decision to attend, make the most of it. There can be some hidden gems to experience if we’ve done our homework.
Self-Care
Sitting in multiple sessions and taking in the information can tire us out! Pace yourself. Eat small snacks, drink water, get fresh air, and move around a little bit during the breaks.
Roll with it
Lots of people might mean waiting in line and or standing in crowded spaces. Breathe and relax, happy to be surrounded by like-minded guests. If waiting in a long line, strike up a conversation. Find out why others are there and what they’ve enjoyed so far about the event.
Expect the unexpected. We know that we’re going to learn tons. Lots of inspiration will be thrown our way. Our minds will be stimulated. Consider, perhaps, that there’s a broader purpose to participating and to our learning. Listen to other people’s stories. How are they digesting the material? What are they observing? Stay open to hearing new perspectives.
Enjoy every minute. If we take care of ourselves we can fully enjoy the conference experience. Demonstrating an “attitude of gratitude” guarantees satisfaction.
Register for “It’s About Time” today. Visit A Table In Time’s Conversation Café on the 3rd floor outside patio of the Buell Theater. Hope to see you there!
