I must be getting old, but I have the feeling we do not allow ourselves the time to focus
anymore. To slow down. To see clearly where we are going, and still look at the scenery
along the way. Allowing for distractions, even. Because these might just add new
thoughts and meaning to whatever goal we have in mind. Allowing a little bit of
trial and error.
Hah! That
reminds me of our road trip to Italy this summer. Our car broke down three (!)
times on our way from Amsterdam to Ancona, but we had the best view of the
Adriatic see. And some quality time to reflect :-)
Well , I am
planning to stop and use my breaks a little more from now on. Smell the flowers, see the sky, so to speak.
How?
Using event
research in a more relaxed manner. Sure
I know my goals and the objectives, and I will still deliver on time. But hey,
if I spend a few extra hours to look at
reports more closely, add new angles or combinations, I might stumble upon an idea
that is worth investigating. Small and slow. The dirt road just might be the connection we were looking for.
Using
social media in a better way. Planning time during the weekend to really read those blogs. Think
about their content, see who can benefit from them, and pass them on. Not just retweet,
but making it personal. Adding thoughts, asking feedback. More with less.
Using event
technology more based on personal need. To use as a reference after the event, for
instance. Allowing myself to follow sessions as I see fit, ignoring networking tools
once in a while and just enjoying the conversation. Or the white space.
Don’t
get me wrong, I love event tech, but not when it dictates the way I should
connect. And, especially, the pace I should do it in. Even at events, it is worth to take it slow now and then. One great conversation might teach me more than a quick scan of the entire room...
So there
you have it. Relax! And allow yourself a few mistakes. With the speed that we
are going now, there is plenty of time to adjust. Happy travels!
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