If you're a "party geek" like me, you're rarely-to-never burnt out about party planning.But, for those of you who have to plan the doggone family reunion (or insert any other type of party), yet again - you know the one that feels more like an obligation than a fun experience - well, Cater-Hater is here to let you know that you can get through it.
The World of Self-Help Trends
We've all heard that the latest trend is to hire a life coach, haven't we? Well, you might think that's a lame idea.
You could spend some time combing through book titles in the "Self Help Section" at your local Borders or Barnes & Noble bookstore; trying to find self help books, specifically for people in food catering services or the event planning/party planning industry, maybe.
But, you know what?
Catering and event planning/party planning self help books, specifically written for people in the party industry, don't exist.
But, not to worry. Because I've done some research and have some good news for you.
You really can be calmer and take charge when dealing with your family members, friends and co-workers, and clients and employees - if you're a party industry professional.
You don't have to sweat it. You just need to understand the true root of what stresses you out and separate the problems that you can solve from the ones that are unsolvable.
Late for work or late getting started on a party project
Who's late? Not you, right? Or, maybe it is you that's late.
You hit that snooze button umpteen times. And now, you're scurrying, brushing your teeth, making coffee, and trying to get dressed, all at the same time. Or yikes, you're 30 minutes late for your meeting at Classic Party Rentals!
Personally, I believe that when you're late a lot, more often than not you're sick and tired of feeling like you're doing every darned thing yourself. Or, you're just sick of your job duties or sick of your job in general. If that's the case, think about putting your feelers out there. Ask around. Find out about other companies that may be hiring.
Irregardless of who's late or what's late, research shows that it's not being late getting to the catering or event planning office, or being late for appointments with vendors, or worrying about of getting behind, or being behind on your party planning that's your main problem. It's your negative response to it.
When you acknowledge your fear of getting (or being, once again) in trouble with your boss or with your cousin (who is the family reunion project manager), the mindful thing to do is to breathe deep and not allow your feelings overtake you. Remember, you decide how you want to feel about things.
Because if you continue to worry, instead of stopping to take a few breaths from the depths of your diaphragm (yes, this really does work), you won't trigger your nervous system (your parasympathetic nervous system, actually), and arrive at a place of self-peace.
You might think this is weird.
But, staying completely still for a few minutes can help too.
How can I stay still when I'm late, you nutcase? I'm late. And, I agreed to see a special client promptly at ten o'clock!
Try it. It will calm you right down. If you do it, afterward - you should be able to focus better. And, get your next steps of order together.
It's the money honey
I know, I know. Everything is due at once.
Whether it's personal or professional, you're probably trying to figure out how to stop a potential party client from taking their business elsewhere but make a profit, or how to have your deposit money ready for your family reunion party rentals.
But here's the thing, worrying can help you get ahead of what's coming up next.
What? Yes, it really can.
For instance, because you're worrying, try this. Decide to think of ways to get ahead of any potential problems that could arise.
Well, what if I scare of the client off because our proposed party bid is too high? Or, what if the rental company won't offer us a discounted price on the chafing dishes, linens, and chairs and tables that we need?
Schedule an advance meeting with the manager of the catering business you work for. Ask for some face time, so that the two of you can brainstorm strategies that can help everybody. Or, ask your crazy cousin to negotiate with the sales person at the rental company.
Let's face it, letting your mind wander into problems that don't exist is fruitless.
That only makes you avoid dealing with what's on your plate today. Why not look at any real problems that you're faced with today?
That way, you can begin to get rid of some of what's on your plate. Facing the fear of your problems means, you can come up with a viable solution that suits everyone, both the catering company and the client; you can think to call the rental company manager to discuss payment options for your upcoming family reunion.
You can't change anything without coming up with a solution, right? But, you can make plans that will help you progress toward your future goals.
I loved family reunion, party and special event planning
I know about this. I've "been there" a couple of times, myself.
Sometimes you can feel like you're "in it" alone. Think of it this way, there's something good that can come out of doing the job alone.
But when it comes to a personal party planning project, like planning a family reunion, sometimes you can't protect yourself from all the possible hurt and rejection that could come your way. That is, unless you walk away from it. Or, them.
And, you really can't replace your fear with self-confidence that you don't have.
But, you can look at what you want.
And figure out how to make it happen.
Just know that, this too shall pass. Just as the sun comes up and sets everyday, things always change. And you know what? Most of the time things look better and brighter the next day.
You can get through it. You can make it.
Because I promise. Things will get better.
Just keep the faith. Keep your chin up.
And, never let them see you sweat!
Image source: Wikipedia
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