Are you bombarded with ads and posts promoting events? It seems like we’ve gone from virtual everything to an explosion of in-person events. As someone who once hated networking, I’ve learned to embrace these opportunities for growth and connection. In the past few months, I attended five events and learned some key lessons that I want to share with you.

Here are the five key takeaways from my recent experiences:

1. Networking Is Powerful and Not as Scary as You Think

Networking isn’t just about handing out business cards. It’s about connecting with people on a human level. Being in the same room with others allows you to build authentic connections, unlike online interactions that can feel distant. And here’s the thing: everyone’s in the same boat! People are eager for connection, making it easier to strike up a conversation. When you’re in a room full of like-minded individuals, you open doors to new relationships, partnerships, and opportunities.

2. Change Your Environment, Change Your Mind

One of the biggest benefits of attending events is the shift in perspective that comes with changing your physical surroundings. When we are in the same place day after day, our thinking becomes routine. By stepping out of your usual environment, you unlock creativity and innovation. That new atmosphere sparks fresh ideas and can help you tackle business challenges in unexpected ways. You won’t leave the event the same person who walked in—your mind will expand with new possibilities.

3. Fast-Track Your Skill Acquisition

Live events provide an immersive experience that accelerates your learning. In just a few days, you can acquire skills that would take months to learn in other settings. Whether you’re at a sales event or a skill-building seminar, the focused environment of these gatherings helps you dive deep into the subject matter, absorb information quickly, and return to your business with actionable knowledge.

4. You Will Find Your People

Attending events allows you to meet people who truly understand what you're going through. It’s like finding your tribe—a community of individuals who share your values, ambitions, and struggles. You’ll leave with more than just new contacts; you’ll walk away with people who will support you on your journey, offer advice, and cheer you on. There’s something magical about building these connections in person.

5. Gain Clarity on Your Business

One of the most valuable outcomes of attending events is the clarity you gain about your own business. By repeatedly explaining what you do to others, you refine your messaging. You'll quickly learn what resonates and what doesn't by reading people’s reactions in real-time. This immediate feedback allows you to adjust how you present your business, making you more effective in communicating your value.

Ready to Take the Leap?

If you’ve been on the fence about attending an event, I encourage you to just do it. Whether it’s a local networking meeting or a multi-day conference, in-person events can change the trajectory of your business. The connections you make, the skills you gain, and the new perspectives you develop are invaluable.

I discuss this in depth here

or you can watch on YouTube