Spending a week at the EMS Expo is a marathon of meetings, presentations, social events, and still trying to complete some of my normal work and family responsibilities. I arrived in Dallas for the EMS Expo on Monday night and will leave late Friday afternoon. These are my tips ten for surviving a long week away.
1. Routine. Maintaining some semblance of my normal routine, especially related to sleep and meal times is critical for me.
2. Sleep. Every night has had social opportunities that could have kept me up well past midnight. I know that since I almost always wake up early, even when I don’t need to, that going to bed between 10 and 11 is critical.
3. Eat well. Eating healthy on the road requires a lot of discipline to select fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and appropriate portion sizes. That being said I also like a good meal and have enjoyed some local Texas barbecue.
4. Exercise. Running is an easy way for me to get some exercise and explore an area while I travel. I also walk as often as I can between conference venues.
5. Water. Drink lots of water. The combination of dry indoor air, lots of exercise, and lots of talking always have me on the verge of dehydration. I regularly remind myself to drink more water.
6. Transportation. Group travel from point A to point B isn’t any easier to coordinate now than it was in high school. I try to control my destiny by walking as often as possible and using public or conference providing transportation.
7. Moderation. Caffeine and or alcohol are easily over indulged. Out on the town I always avoid or have just one beer because I never know when I might be introduced to a future client or my next big project.
8. Handwashing. Lots of handshaking going on at EMS Expo. For me this is especially awkward at meals. I do my best to politely say, “since we are both eating now let’s try to shake hands later.” I don’t want to get sick, bring home an unwelcome gift to my family, or pass something to a new friend.
9. Listen. I am fortunate to meet so many people who already know me through my writing, videos, and presentations. When we meet in person it is my chance to listen and learn about them. I also try to quickly move past the – who, what, where – and ask people about their successes, challenges, and resources they are seeking.
10. Make Connections. It is a thrill for me to connect people. At the Expo many people have shared with me their aspirations to write for EMS industry magazines and web sites. There is no better way for me to make that connection than by face-to-face introduction to people like Kris Kaull, Nancy Perry, and AJ Heightman.
Are you at EMS Expo? We only have a few hours left. Who do you want to meet today or what question can I answer for you?
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