events to help seize your passion

This is a question that comes up in just about any personal development circle. If you're looking for your next gig, chances are your inbox has been flooded with invitations to countless "find your passion and purpose" events. Do you go or sit them out? 

The choice is personal preference- there is no "right" or "wrong" decision. Even if it's not your style to go to this type of event, it doesn't necessarily mean that it’s not "right" for you. You may gain a lot of insight... and perhaps a new friend or two! Even if it is your kind of thing, you may still be feeling overwhelmed.

Below are some tips for assessing which event to attend.

Price/Place
Does the admission fee fit your budget? Is the event being held at a local venue? If not, what will the cost be to travel to the event? Will you need to stay overnight? How do those additional costs fit into your budget? 

Time
What is the time commitment? How long is the event? How long will it take you to travel to the event? 

Content
Does the content material match your experience level? For example, if the event is an ‘intro course’ and you're already well-versed in the topic, would a more advanced event better suit you? Will you be receiving an overview or a more ‘meaty’ presentation? 

Structure
How is the event structured? Is it a lecture or an informal networking event? Does it involve audience participation, exercises, or group work? Will you get one-on-one time with the presenter? If there are group exercises, how comfortable are you getting involved? If attendees are encouraged to share their experiences, how comfortable are you doing so? Is it likely you will stretch out of your comfort zone and share your experiences? If it's not, how beneficial will the event be for you? 

Size
Will it be an intimate group or take place in a large lecture hall? Will you get direct feedback from the presenter?  

Testimonials
Upon reviewing the presenter's website, what do previous attendees say about his or her events? What are the outcomes? Do those outcomes line up with your own goals? 

In-person or webinar? 
Webinars and online events are becoming very popular. Some of these events are offered for free and give you a "taste" of the personal development workshop experience. If your budget does not allow you to attend a live event, consider whether or not a webinar format will work for you. 

Going to a personal development event can be a rewarding, fun, and eye-opening experience. If it's something you've never done before, review the list above to gauge your comfort level with attending an event. 

If you have attended a personal development event, we invite you to share a tidbit about your experiences! How did the event help you? What is something you learned at the event? 

--Victoria Crispo, Dec 2014 Career Coach