Jukwaa Blog 0.2

Crunch Time

By Lize Nel

In event planning there is a never-ending “to do” list when it comes to preparations and perfecting execution of successful events. It’s a week before my first event and the to do list gets longer and longer by the minute. 

I came to realise that successful execution of events can be done through calm management or disorganized chaos – first option sounds good right, it’s definitely a good good goal. But in reality, it’s not exactly how things play out.

It’s a week before the event, on your way to work you made a to do list in your head, determined and motivated to get things done ASAP. You get to the office, start working through the first 10 emails and all of a sudden the power goes out. No internet, no phone, no nothing – now what?!

Panic, stress, anger – CHAOS!

How you handle disorganized chaos behind the scenes to show calm management to those around you and keeping a smile on your face, may sometimes be a challenge. The following are a few things I have learned to keep calm in times of chaos.

1. Breathe
2. Make a new plan.
3. Get to it.

There is no easy way out. You just have to get it done – if your initial plan failed, make another one. If you’re stressed out, make yourself a cup of tea and deal with it. Every event planner should acquire management tools that turn disorganized chaos into calm and successful execution of events.

Finding ways to “make it happen” are learned every day through challenges and successes. In the end, all we want to hear is that the event we managed was a success, the best event ever and those who attended look forward to the next one! Always remember proper planning prepares you for perfection! My personal motto “Make it happen if you can, apologize if you can’t and always strive to do better the next time around.”