A “Theory of Everything” may very well get you through the unexpected twists and turns that inevitably happen during and after your events.
Though perhaps not as intense as physicist Stephen Hawking’s “Theory of Everything,” which marries nature at the smallest scales with Einstein’s smooth and continuous cosmic scale of stars and galaxies, your theory of everything reflects your ability to adapt and conquer the surprising challenges that come your way. Hawking goes into detail about his discoveries in a, “A Brief History of Time,” published in 1988, but currently on the New York Bestseller list.
Whether or not you have studied Hawking’s theories, here are five thought-provoking quotes for developing your very own theory of everything.
“Mankind’s greatest achievements have come about by talking, and its greatest failures by not talking.”
I think it’s safe to say that Hawking encouraged communication. With that in mind, it’s always important to come up with new lines of communication at events. If a presenter is speaking, build in some time for questions or post-session discussions about what the presenter had to say. Or get a little creative, and build a Post-It wall for attendees to post their feedback or ideas.
“Next time someone complains that you have made a mistake, tell him that may be a good thing. Because without imperfection, neither you nor I would exist.”
Trial and error, a.k.a. a calculated risk, is often the only key to success in science, which is important to remember for events, too. You never know what new event design or food or speaker or experience could be the next big thing for your event.
“We are all different, but we share the same human spirit. Perhaps it’s human nature that we adapt and survive.”
Adaptation requires a recognition of the need for change. This thought of Hawking’s speaks to the importance of finding commonality among attendees before, during and after events. Focus on how you can build like-mindedness into events; how to build bridges among attendees while celebrating their differences and shared interests.
“However difficult life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at.”
This is an important rule of thumb for anyone transitioning into a new career. Meeting planners can use this advice to their advantage by creating a group for attendees who are brand new to a company or industry (and therefore the meeting at hand). Initiating a support system at a meeting or conference can be invaluable for these attendees’ careers.
“Look up at the stars and not down at your feet.”
Attendees more than ever are craving impact, both giving and receiving. Integrating a meaningful CSR program into your event is sure to build morale and inspire team building among peers. Giveback programs can also be a crucial component for helping communities obtain the resources that they need to create and maintain healthy environments. A win-win.
