Keeping Up with the Social Calendar: 3 Ways to Enjoy the Season Without Exhaustion

Have you noticed that there seems to be an overabundance of events to attend this month – networking events, coffees, lunches, socials, and dinners? Don’t forget the galas. There are so many events to attend.  

 Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want to be left off your invite list. 😊 I’ll be there if I can be. 

 For those of you who are struggling to keep up with “The Jones,” (pun intended here) here are a few keys to success during this busy season. 

1. Manage your energy 

1. Be choosy 

1. Decline gracefully  

 Manage your energy  

It takes energy to “be on” for every event. It’s an energetic challenge to be continuously cordial and friendly. The energy to pay attention to the new acquaintance’s boring story can be draining. Standing in a crowd of people at a wedding or gala can be an energy suck even if you consider yourself an extrovert. 

 Imagine what it is like for those who see themselves as introverts. Striking up a conversation with someone you have never met must feel like an absolute chore. Introducing yourself to strangers over and over can make an introvert want to pull his hair out.   

 Try these hacks to save your personal energy. 

1. Avoid committing to multiple events in one day.  

1. Limit the amount of time you spend in crowded rooms. Instead, show up late and leave early.  

1. Move to a section of the room that has fewer people to reduce the amount of energy around you. This technique is super challenging if you are the one who has thrown the party. 

 Be Choosy 

When it comes to which events you will attend, be choosy. Agree to the invitations that you think will lift your spirit and bring positive energy. When possible, ask for a copy of the guest list in advance to see who plans to attend. Identify people who are enjoyable and energizing to be around. Look for the names of people you would like to meet. The event will be more energizing when you have a purpose for attending. 

 Gracefully Decline 

In making decisions as to which invitations to accept, there is bound to be one you must decline. Instead of just RSVPing “no,” make your response personal and pleasurable for the host to receive. Thank the host for the invitation, communicate how much you appreciate being invited, and tell them you have committed to a previous engagement. A graceful decline makes the host feel good about you and will help ensure you are invited again next time. 

 Happy socializing with energy. 😊