What is your passion?
This is a question that comes up in just about any personal development circle. If you’re looking for your next gig, chances are your inbox has been flooded with invitations to countless “find your passion and purpose” events. Do you go or sit them out?
The choice to do either is a personal preference- there is no “right” or “wrong”. Even it’s not your style to go to this type of event, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it is not “right” for you. You may gain a lot of insight…and perhaps a new friend or two! If it is your kind of thing and your budget allows you to attend these types of events, you may still be feeling overwhelmed.
Below are some tips for assessing which event to attend (in no particular order):
1. Price/Place- Does the admission fee fit your budget? Is the event being held at a local venue? If not, what will the cost be to travel to the event? Will you need to stay overnight? How do those additional costs fit your budget?
2. Time- what is the time commitment? How long is the event? How long will it take you to travel to the event?
3. Content- how well does the “level” of the content material match where you currently are? For example, if the event is an “intro” and you are already well-versed in the topic, would a more advanced event match your needs better? Will you be receiving an overview or a more “meaty” presentation?
4. Structure- how is the event structured? Lecture, informal networking event, audience participation encouraged, exercises, group work? Will you get one-on-one time with the presenter? If there will be group exercises, how comfortable are you in engaging in this type of work? If attendees are encouraged to share their experiences, how comfortable are you in doing so? How likely is it that you will stretch out of your comfort zone to share your experiences? If it’s not likely, how beneficial will the event be for you?
5. Size- intimate group or large lecture hall? How likely is it that you will get direct feedback from the presenter?
6. Testimonials- upon reviewing the presenter’s website, what are previous attendees saying about his or her events? What are the outcomes? How closely in line are those outcomes with your own goals?
7. In-person or webinar? Webinars and online events are becoming very popular. Some of these events are offered for free and give you a “taste” of the personal development workshop experience. If your budget does not allow you to attend a live in-person event, consider whether a webinar format might work for you.
Going to a personal development event can be a rewarding, fun, and eye-opening experience. If it’s something you’ve never done before, review the list above to gauge your comfort level with attending an event.
If you have attended a personal development event, we invite you to share a tidbit about your experiences! How did the event help you? What is something you learned at the event? Which events would you recommend? Share with our readers by clicking the “Leave a Comment” link at the side of this post!
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