Today I attended a conference in the city where I minister and it was great, and here’s why:

1.  I was quickly refreshed with ideas that were new, and some not so new.  Basically, I blew the dust off my brain and thought in a new way for a moment.  I love those “Right, I knew that!” moments.  Good take aways today!

2.  As I was out of the office, I was able to engage quickly in thinking about concepts and how they relate where I serve.  In other words, I was able to step back, even for a short day conference and think critically about what I’m doing, and not doing.

3.  I connected with others who serve in the same field and role that I do.  Without even saying necessarily anything directly about the positives and negatives of our labor, the support and camaraderie of friends is priceless.  BBQ and cobbler never hurts either!

4.  We walked away with a plan of action in particular at this clinic.  Sometimes I attend training and leave with a very real “so now what?”  But, today was all about action.  Find conferences/clinics that have a concrete action/follow-up connected.

5.  As I left, I was planning my next encounter with the leaders where I serve.  I am excited about meetings, training, and even doing simple things I picked up today purposefully.  I don’t want to overwhelm folks with a “seminar effect,” but I gained some tweaks to help me communicate and lead creatively!

When you are searching for or see that next email or mailer for a clinic near or far, make the commitment to actually go!

What has been one of the best conference/clinics you have attended lately?