This is how we make things happen.
It seems like just a couple of years ago that I had the remarkable experience of being an unlikely player in the movement to make the internet accessible to all the world’s citizens. Actually, that was back in the early ‘90s, but I distinctly recall thinking, “This is huge.”
It was the first time I’d been caught up in something much bigger than myself and it felt good. Thankfully, It wasn’t the last time. In fact, what I came to realize is that with certain trade shows, conferences, or industry happenings I was part of, there was a hint of that feeling. I guess it came from the realization that there were thousands of things that could go wrong, but that our orchestrated effort delivered the required magic. I found joy in being part of a solution that was beyond any single individual’s effort.
I believe that the human longing to be part of something bigger is universal. It may be more poignant when we are young, because the sense of awe comes as a surprise. But I find that with a little vulnerability and a lot of curiosity, the feeling is renewed again and again. Being part of a force for good is incredibly fulfilling.
Freeman’s research about why people attend events affirms this. Specifically, we see it in the responses of younger event goers who prioritize their desire to engage in a way that supports larger societal issues and movements.
This is the event industry’s superpower. The work we do brings people together in a way that engenders commerce, learning, progress, innovation, and goodwill. It creates a safe place to discuss problems. And just as important, it provides a platform for individuals who are ready to step up to the responsibility of being a small part of a bigger solution.
Today’s problems are big. Bringing people together to solve them? That’s huge.
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