• Are we having fun yet… I sincerely hope so! Like the kids these days are saying on the internet “If it’s not on Instagram, did it even happen?” This should go without saying, but you don’t need to document every moment of every event just to show the world you were there and it really happened. You can still have fun without being tethered to your phone. However, if your only camera is on your phone, take some photos and then set your phone down. Mingle, make small talk, and be present. This is the time to create m emories, enjoy the process, and not worry about being too precious or particular about the look of your event. With all honesty, I will say that I do miss 35mm film cameras. You usually only had 24-‐36 exposures, so your one shot mattered… and before sending the film off to b e developed, the last remaining photos were usually taken of the family cats.
• Take care of yourself… If you’re familiar with Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, you’ll know that without a solid base of addressing your physiological needs (water, food and sleep), you won’t be able to meet your other needs as you move up the triangle (safety, love, esteem and self-‐actualization). I find this to be true when anyone is facing stress or trauma; you can’t think well, articulate your thoughts, or listen as thoroughly as you’d like on an empty stomach, minimal sleep, or the other necessities that help you feel 100%. As it is always okay to say “no” to attending an event, it is also okay to say “no” when you need a little extra time to decompress.
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