Conferences are fun and busy. Here are some tips on how to enjoy them even more!
Be Mindful of What You Eat
Since many conferences have plenty of delicious food, it’s easy to overindulge. I find that if I don’t overeat, I feel better. It’s extremely important for those with allergies to avoid food with mysterious ingredients. You don’t want to find out too late that you accidentally ate a food that can cause you medical problems. And if you’re unsure about ingredients, ask the server. Don’t take a chance with your health.
Skip Rolls and Desserts
One way to cut back is to skip rolls and dessert, at least most of the time. And don’t be shy about leaving food on your plate. If you are no longer hungry, the food has served its purpose. Again, no need to get sick. Please note if you eat a meal with me at a conference, you will be in a no-judgment zone. I don’t care if you consume every roll in sight and several desserts. I’ll be envious! The suggestion to decline is just my way of coping.
And Speaking of Meals, Sit with Me!
I like feeling popular.
Go to Bed as Early as Possible Each Night
I know how hard it is to drag yourself away from writer friends. But do be protective of your down time. Don’t you want to be refreshed so you can fully enjoy precious time together?
Decide What You Can Miss
Conference directors are wonderful about scheduling so many workshops that choosing one per time slot is difficult, much less thinking about missing any. But since you can usually purchase a DVD of all the workshops, consider missing one or two if necessary. Again, you’ll be glad you took that down time so you can keep up your energy throughout the conference.
Give Yourself at Least a Day to Recover
Once you’re home, reality will quickly set in as you face a mountain of laundry and catch up on errands. Give yourself time to recover from the excitement of the conference. Agents and editors need time, too, so if you don’t follow up with us ten minutes after your plane lands, we’re fine with that. Trust me, we’ll remember you.
Your Turn:
How do you stay at your peak during a conference?
What tips can you offer to get the most enjoyment from a conference?
