# Insights Gained from Hosting My First Social Event
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Chapter 1: The Journey to Hosting
Recently, I took a significant step in my personal development by hosting my first meetup event in Charlotte, NC. Having attended various meetups over the years, I never imagined I would be in a position to lead one, especially so soon after relocating to a new city. The journey has been transformative, as I have managed to reduce my social anxiety and shyness considerably—an achievement possible through consistent self-improvement. My goal is to inspire others to embark on their own journeys of growth.
The event unfolded at a local food hall, followed by a visit to a charming coffee, wine, and pastry shop, and concluded at a trendy bar and restaurant. I meticulously planned each segment of the evening.
My guests were fantastic!
Throughout this experience, I affirmed three life principles and made two personal observations. These insights not only reflect my growth as a leader and planner but also as a socially aware individual.
Section 1.1: Key Life Principles
Principle 1: Perfection is Not Mandatory.
Not every aspect of the event needed to be flawless. While many guests were indifferent to the food options at the hall, I had learned not to take such feedback personally. Everyone has unique tastes, and not everyone will enjoy what you offer. I chose the venue to share something I love, and ultimately, the evening was a success because the focus was on connection, not just food.
Principle 2: Others' Choices are Not a Reflection of You.
When some attendees moved to the next venue without my approval, I initially felt a twinge of insecurity. However, I soon recognized that their decisions were their own as adults. My role as a leader does not require me to control every situation; I can guide without dominating.
Principle 3: External Opinions are Irrelevant.
During a light-hearted moment, I commented on how I didn’t look close to 50 in a selfie. A younger attendee laughed, and while I once would have felt self-conscious, I realized that his opinion held no weight. My self-worth isn’t dictated by others' perceptions—what matters is how I view myself.
Section 1.2: Personal Observations
Observation 1: Competence in Execution.
I proved to myself that I could successfully manage the event. I had a detailed plan, captured numerous photos, and remained attentive to my guests' needs.
Observation 2: Connecting with New People.
I was pleasantly surprised by an engaging hour-long conversation with an attendee, which gave me renewed confidence in my ability to connect with others. Her appreciation for my insights reinforced my desire to coach and support individuals in overcoming their emotional hurdles.
In conclusion, the event was not only a success socially but also a profound personal victory for me.
This video explores the significance of being a host in life, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and creating connections.
In this recap, discover how my first live event changed everything for me, along with key lessons learned from the experience.