Pre-event rituals
No, I’m not about to take the stage and deliver a headline set and leave the audience in awe with my endless singing talent. I can’t sing. But I was curious as to what your pre-event rituals are. Is there something that you do to get into the groove? To know that you have to find the adrenaline to get through the next 12-14 hours and deliver a great time for all those who are on-site?
I never originally had any rituals that I followed. In fact, it was only recently that I came to the realisation that there are things I like to do to get me in the zone. So, let’s break down what I do. It starts with a long walk the day before the event. If it’s by the beach, even better, but sometimes this is not always possible. If the weather is horrible, then ideally a boxing session at the gym does the trick, or a good workout, one that leaves you sore.
During the walk, as much as I try to switch off, I use the overdrive in my mind to think through potential issues that might turn up, and think through solutions. It’s a weirdly calming thing to do. It’s something that also helps me stay calm when I’m at the event, and something does go wrong.
The next thing on my list is the drive into the venue. I don’t care what songs are on the playlist, as long as one of these three songs play:
False Alarm by Matoma featuring Becky Hill (fun fact a couple of bars of this song is tattooed on my arm)
Unstoppable by SIA
The Greatest by SIA featuring Kendrick Lamar
If any of these songs play, I feel a sense of ease. The song False Alarm has a hold on me. It’s the song I go to when I’m anxious, happy, sad, any emotion in between. It’s the song that reassures me that everything will be okay.
Once I get to the venue, I walk through the rooms at the venue. Help with setup as needed. Take a few deep breaths, and reassure myself that I know this event, and that I have the knowledge, skills, and capability to resolve anything and deliver an event that attendees will enjoy.
Do you have any pre-event rituals?
Until next time,
Mili
