IMEX Day 1

My second day at IMEX America has come to an end. As a first time attendee I must say the show has exceeded my expectations. My take away for Day 1 would have to be...embrace the unexpected.

From the morning keynote with the great adventurer, Dr. Jeff Salz, to the ending receptions, I was constantly met with moments I did not expect.

After attending Debra Benton's keynote on Monday, I had to get a copy of her latest book.  She was gracious enough to sign the book and take a picture with me.  Her message of "expecting acceptance" has been my driving mantra for the last two days. As a result the door was opened for some great moments.




I spent the majority of my time walking around the tradeshow floor.  I had been warned about how overwhelming it can be to step on the floor for the first time. Walking through the tradeshow doors really did feel like walking into another world.  And it resulted in me being able to submit a client RFP to a venue that I originally thought would never be a possibility.

Overall I think the greatest unexpected moments came from conversations with friends both old and new.  Amazing opportunities presented themselves throughout the day.  I have no clue what the future holds...but I am so excited about the possibilities!!!

I Need Some Motivation for My Motivation

So I am beginning to understand that the hardest part about motivation is staying motivated. Have you ever sat in a meeting or lecture and had the greatest moment of clarity? Suddenly you were able to solve all of the world’s problems with the power of your mind. A dozen amazing business ideas began to unfold in your mind. You felt ready to conquer every giant that dared to cross your path, both real and imagined!

I recently had five days of these magical moments. I attended my very first Meeting Professionals International World Education Congress.  I had a great time networking with 2,000 of the best and the brightest in my industry.  I attended workshops that fit my business needs perfectly. By the end of the conference I had figured out how to move my company into the Fortune 500 by the end of the year. 

WEC'12 Opening Reception at Busch Stadium

But then something change. Yep, you guessed it…the conference ended!!!  Now I am back in my home office trying to make all of these amazing thoughts become a reality.  It only took a few irritating emails, hearing the word “no”, and a change in plans, to send me crashing back to earth. 

I am realizing that motivation is a moment by moment…day by day process.   I can’t live off of yesterday’s high.  I am seeking out today’s life lesson. What word, thought or milestone today, is going to help me stretch a little bit closer to my goal. 

Today’s Motivation: After over a year hiatus, I have updated my blog!!!!! Wooooo Hooooo….Let’s Go!!!!!!