Events 101: Attending an Event
How to Attend an Event as an Attendee (Especially when you’re always the Party Planner.)
If you’re used to running the show, chances are it’s difficult to relinquish all power and control and just enjoy yourself. But this could also not be the case if you’ve ever hosted an event. It’s the most stressful job in the world, so attending an event you aren’t hosting can be fun and easy if you’ve been forced to throw an event. However, there are those who love what they do and do it for a reason. So, reversing roles can be fun, but difficult for those who love to host. Here are some tips to help you act like an attendee instead of the host.
- Try not to overwhelm the host by trying to help. It’s nice to be helpful, but sometimes it’s more helpful just to let the behind the scenes work behind the scenes.
- Try not to judge the party. Of course, there are different things you’d do if it were your party. No one doubts you can do a better job! As a matter of fact, I know you can. But let the host run the event their way and learn from their mistakes.
- Don’t make side comments. It’s one thing to try and not think about what you would have done differently, but it’s another thing to say it out loud. If you can’t help but judge, just be sure to keep the comments to yourself.
- Stop cleaning up after everyone. It’s a nice gesture, but the point of attending the event is for you to enjoy yourself. You can’t talk to people and step outside your comfort zone if you’re not focused on yourself.
- Don’t micromanage. What might be worse than cleaning up for everyone around you is also trying to tell people working the event what and how to do. If advice is warranted, then of course you offer it up. Otherwise, don’t worry about it.
- Enjoy yourself! Last, but not least, enjoy yourself. Talk to new people, try and make friends or connections wherever you are.
Attending events as an attendee can actually be fun, if you really give it a shot. The most important thing to do is just let go and let be. That’s the only way you’ll be able to enjoy yourself without thinking about controlling everything.