As the event planning industry gears up for a busy 2024, professional development takes the spotlight, particularly focusing on the often-overlooked aspect of mental fitness. Silke Calder, AIME Event Director, engaged in a conversation with El Kwang, BEAM Founder and Chief Engager, emphasizing the critical role of mental well-being for event professionals and participants.
Kwang advocates for mental fitness as the equivalent of a gym for the brain, highlighting its equal importance to physical fitness in the event context. Simple practices like conscious breathing exercises and gratitude reflections are suggested to impact mental states positively. Contentment, rather than the constant pursuit of happiness, is deemed vital for well-being, fostering resilience and empathy.
To nurture contentment, Kwang suggests incorporating straightforward practices into daily life, such as placing positive affirmations on mirrors. Mindful breathing, a fundamental practice, is encouraged, emphasizing small, manageable actions contributing to emotional equilibrium.
In terms of event programming, Kwang recommends streamlining schedules to allow attendees more networking time and fewer catering breaks. This approach aims to give attendees a sense of control over their time and prevent overload with excessive sessions and catering. Additionally, he underscores the importance of exceptional program quality, urging speakers to focus on clear positioning to help attendees discern the value of each session easily.
For event planner professional development, AIME’s 2024 Knowledge Program is highlighted. Themed “The 4Ps of Glocalisation,” features keynote speakers Lisa Ronson and Sebastian Terry. Breakout sessions will focus on the 4Ps: People, Planet, Purpose, and Profit.
A new addition for 2024, ‘The Pitch,’ allows leading speakers 60 seconds to pitch their topics to plenary participants, enhancing engagement and interaction. Overall, the program aims to offer a holistic approach to mental fitness and professional development in the dynamic field of event planning.
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