One thing I learned at South By Southwest (SXSW) is to occasionally have blog posts with a number in the title. So, being I finally got home after an event-filled eight days, yes, I counted them, and thought, why there is my blog title! Woo Hoo! I originally wanted “Dead To Me” but thought definitely too negative. I’d really rather concentrate on the positive this morning. So here goes: Five Reasons to Get Out of Town.
- 1. Anticipation is to be savored
- 2. Make New Friends
- 3. Be Flexible
- 4. Expect the Unexpected
- 5. Review Your Experiences
It’s exciting to anticipate the journey. Sometimes the thought of leaving is so thrilling and adrenaline pumping it makes or breaks the entire trip. Be wise and temper the enthusiasm if you’re emotional, otherwise let ‘er rip!
Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers. If you need to give yourself an out, take a page out of Gwen’s playbook and “be the hostess” the one who performs the introductions, makes sure no one is standing alone, put out your hand, shake and introduce yourself. Ask about the other person. It works, trust me!
Rigid is not a good thing. So if the panel is full, or you meet someone who wants to keep talking, let it flow! If your companions insist on going to a restaurant you don’t like, be gracious. New experiences will lead to unanticipated results. Sometimes just trusting fate works out very well. You never know who you’ll meet at that restaurant you can’t stand and if you’d thrown a fit, it would never have occurred! How tragic!
Know that something not just good but great is going to happen! Every SINGLE day! Go at it from the minute you leave the door of your room to getting on the elevator to the last minute of a long night that something wonderful is happening and you’re living the experience. If you combine expectation with being flexible you will have a series of “perfect” days. Think of Ferris Bueller. Even though his day had ups and downs it was a “perfect” day. It really works!
Take the time to internally review every thing that occurred or you learned. Do follow up immediately, send a thank you email while it’s fresh, write up your thoughts in a note book or your computer, where ever it’s practical for you. If you can, talk about the trip with others. The writing and speaking help solidify your experience.
Home is a sweet place to be
After all the traveling, snafus, strange coffees and stranger beds, it’s always good to come home to where your pets and family love you, you know how to work the shower (or bath for those who are addicted to bathing) and you don’t have to worry about running out of anything! Being greeted at the door by an excited canine is always gratifying. The dogs are usually more demonstrative than the husband, but hey, you get it where you can! And waking up to a your own coffee is heavenly for this coffee addict!
So, I’m home and back to work after a night’s sleep on my own bed with its wonderful sheets and a dog sprawled across my legs. Bliss!
Until next time…
Get out there and READ a book…
Sara Reyes
Join us at Readers ‘n ‘ritas November 12-14, 2010! with Sherrilyn Kenyon and more guests
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PS comment and you could win signed books in this weekend’s blog contest. Two WINNERS!!!
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