In the world of event planning, there’s one skill that stands out: adaptability. This past weekend, what was set to be my second in-person event, “Increase Your Income and Impact”, quickly transformed into a masterclass in resilience and flexibility.
With the stage set and attendees excited, several unexpected challenges arose, pushing me to pivot and rethink my approach. Here’s what happened, and the invaluable lessons I gathered along the way.
1. Election Week Chaos: When Timing Is Everything
Hosting an event during election week seemed like a manageable choice at first. After all, the election day was slated for Tuesday, and our event was scheduled for Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Yet, as the dates drew near, it became clear that emotions were running high across the country. In the States, elections don’t just impact government policies; they often bring waves of emotion, anticipation, and tension that ripple through communities, affecting mindsets and focus.
One of the key lessons learned here was the importance of timing. The political climate of an election week adds layers of distraction and intensity that can detract from the immersive experience I aim to create for my participants. Moving forward, I’ll be much more mindful of selecting dates that allow attendees to fully engage without the emotional distraction of national events. The added emotional and mental strain of election week reinforced the need to plan with a broader awareness of current events and how they impact our energy and focus.
2. Winter Storms and Power Outages: The Necessity of a Weather-Resilient Backup Plan
As if navigating the election aftermath wasn’t enough, nature added its own twist. On the eve of our event, a massive winter storm descended upon Santa Fe, blanketing the region with over 18 inches of snow and leaving more than 50,000 New Mexicans without power. This storm was more than a picturesque winter scene; it caused widespread power outages and disrupted life across the state. Some of my participants, determined and resilient, joined us online despite having no electricity, huddled up with limited devices just to stay connected.
This experience underscored the need for a solid contingency plan. While I had a virtual backup prepared, the extent of the storm and power disruptions brought to light just how critical a weather-resilient approach can be. Whether it’s an alternate location, emergency backup generators, or even a last-minute pivot to a fully virtual event, being prepared for severe weather is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. Especially for events planned in regions prone to sudden weather changes, it’s vital to have a backup plan that can seamlessly transition the experience to ensure everyone’s safety and participation.
3. Balancing Roles: The Transition from Host to Mom
As soon as the second day of the event concluded, I found myself transitioning from business leader to mother, rushing down to support my daughter in her participation in a recycled fashion show. My daughter, with her creativity and dedication, had crafted a stunning outfit, and I was determined to be there to cheer her on. This moment was a reminder of the balancing act many of us manage—switching between roles, from professional responsibilities to personal commitments, all in the span of a few hours.
The lesson here was profound: while we strive to excel in each area of our lives, sometimes these roles overlap, requiring us to bring the same energy and commitment to both. For me, the experience was a testament to the beauty of embracing all aspects of who we are, without sacrificing one for the other. Being able to show up fully in each role, even if it means pivoting quickly from hosting to motherhood, was a reminder of the resilience that women, especially working moms, bring to the table every day. — and my daughter… she ended up winning 1st place in her category as “Queen of hearts.”
4. Self-Care Is Not a Luxury—It’s a Strategic Priority
When the event finally wrapped up, I realized just how much I had poured into it. It was a weekend full of last-minute adjustments, intense emotional holding space, and constant navigation of the unexpected. By Monday, I was ready to decompress and recharge—but to my surprise, my favorite local spa bookings were filled up due to Veterans Weekend.😮💨🥲
This taught me a crucial lesson: self-care must be planned with as much intention as the event itself. After all, when we’re leading and facilitating transformative experiences, we’re also pouring a tremendous amount of energy outward. Making time for recovery, whether it’s through a pre-scheduled massage or a quiet moment to integrate, isn’t an indulgence; it’s essential. Moving forward, booking that spa session or personal time after major events will be as integral to my planning as the logistics of the event itself. After all, we can only give our best when we’ve taken the time to replenish ourselves.
Reflecting on the weekend, I am grateful for the resilience shown by my participants and the sense of community that carried us through. Despite the challenges, they showed up, eager to learn and grow. Whether dealing with a snowstorm, navigating high emotional stakes, or balancing multiple roles, each of us displayed remarkable flexibility and commitment.
In the end, this experience was a reminder that life’s curveballs often lead to the most profound lessons. Yes, I could’ve planned for more contingencies, but the challenges we faced only strengthened my resolve and broadened my perspective. We can prepare, strategize, and plan meticulously, but sometimes, true growth comes from facing the unexpected with grace and resilience.
In this spirit, I encourage you to embrace the inevitable pivots life throws at you. Know that with each challenge comes a unique opportunity for growth, and often, those unplanned detours are where the richest lessons lie.
Key Takeaways:
1. Timing is Everything: Avoid scheduling major events during periods of national or local significance that could impact focus and emotional engagement.
2. Always Have a Weather Backup Plan: Especially for events in climates susceptible to sudden changes, consider an alternative approach that doesn’t rely solely on favorable conditions.
3. Balance Multiple Roles Gracefully: Acknowledge and embrace the fluidity of life’s roles, especially the transitions from professional commitments to personal ones.
4. Prioritize Self-Care in Advance: Make space for self-care by booking it ahead of time, ensuring that replenishing moments are built into your schedule before the demand sets in.
To all the ambitious, resilient leaders out there, let these lessons serve as reminders that adaptability, preparation, and self-compassion are the true pillars of sustainable success. When life inevitably throws you a curveball, remember that your capacity to pivot, hold space, and recover is where your greatest strength lies.
What have been some of your curve balls lately?
To your success and abundance!
Tania
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