It doesn’t matter who you are, everyone could use a little bit of inspiration. This week, I attended an awards ceremony thrown by MPI Wisconsin Chapter in which I am a member. It’s always great to go to organizational events, build friendships, and relish in the learning opportunities. However, there is something about seeing others receive the gift of recognition from others that is down right inspiring.

Sure, I’ve received awards from various means, however there is nothing more inspiring than being a spectator and observing the beauty that lies within someone being a recipient of an award.  At times, the event sets the pace from moment that you walk into the room. The event theme, decor, and whole ambiance of the room lends to give you a feeling of inspiration if done really well. Great ambiance coupled with a great line up for inspiration makes for a wonderful evening.

The buzz of the evening can only lure you in deeper when you discuss hot topics about the nominees and who is pulling for who to win. MPI Wisconsin Chapter did a great job in creating an intimate location where everyone could connect at a reception prior to the event. The evening’s emcee did a great job of keeping everyone engaged, and all of the speakers for the evening played into their roles well, especially on stage. When you have all of those elements, you can’t help but to be inspired. Pair that with actually finding out the winners of the evening – what a night!

So, I know what you are thinking. “What really is the deal with an awards event? I’ve been to them before, and they were just ok”. Well, I give you a quote by Seth Godin and his book Tribes to answer that question:

People yearn for change, they relish being part of a movement, and they talk about things that are remarkable, not boring.

– Seth Godin

What was different about the event I attended was that the event was new, it was different. Pushing out the same old awards event year after year just won’t cut it. People do yearn for change, and to be apart of something wonderful sot hat they can talk about it. With the awards event I attended, it was just that. Trying to keep the “status quo”, will only leave your attendees leaving half-full. As planners, we should always strive to have our attendees have the best experience possible. As attendees, we should be awed and inspired.

So, if you are in a rut as a planner, attend another event, one that you haven’t planned, and get inspired. Instead of looking from the lens of “critique” try to gain one or two ideas from another persons event that can make you a better person, a better planner. Get out of your rut and get inspired!

Photo Credit: ebbandflowphotography via photopin cc