As an educator, the need to balance the needs and interests of all the children, colleagues, and families was a constant challenge. I was always planning with all three groups in mind, and seeking the best daily plans to nurture everyone. It was a mighty task, but over time, I found plausible patterns that worked.
Now, post-teaching, I am engaging in many different kinds of events that also call me to balance the needs and interests of varied people and groups. How do I do that? What works?
Anticipation
Prior to the event, it is important that I anticipate the needs of the people or groups involved. To anticipate the needs means that I can set the stage for a positive event. Sometimes, I do this well, and sometimes I miss important details. The more I repeat some of these events, the better I get with regard to anticipation. As I anticipate, these questions are helpful:
- What will make the people or groups comfortable?
- What topics, words, foods, activities need to be avoided during the event?
- What topics, words, foods, activities will enrich the event?
- How can I simplify and streamline the tasks related to the event so that I can focus on the people?
- What is the optimal timeline for the event?
Focus
Successful events prioritize the people who are there. To focus on the people's needs, interests, and conversation is to foster a successful event. Setting the stage for success allows you to focus your attention on the people.
Expect the unexpected
Recently during an event I planned, there was an unexpected turn of events. I didn't expect that, but now thinking ahead, I know that we always have to expect the unexpected, and deal with that with kindness and grace. In this situation, my loved one was unable to attend the event--I felt really bad about that as the event was focused on her, but we shifted the focus, and still enjoyed the event. To expect the unexpected, and keep your focus on the people who are there, will smooth over any unexpected events that occur.
Be grateful for the event
Too often over time, I've taken some of the special events in life for granted. I simply expected more and more events to occur like that, but now at an older age, I am realizing just how special every gathering is. The truth is that many of the events we enjoyed are not repeated due to time, unexpected events, and the sometimes fleeting nature of lives, time, and relationships. So embrace and enjoy each event you are apart of.
To prepare ahead for the events in your life helps you to balance the needs and interests of the people who engage in the events with you. This will help you to foster successful times together. Onward.