As we watch the leaves changing and football season is in full swing (Go Dragons!!, Go Razorbacks!! and Go Jets!!) we begin to make those holiday plans with our work places, families and friends.  Everyone has their own idea of how to make that day special and perfect.  Well, what if their idea doesn't match yours and you have to plan this day/event together?  Does one person have to give in?  Does the discussion have to end in an argument?  Keep in mind the following tips when planning events with others and things are sure to go just a little bit smoother.

Keep to the facts.  List the goals that need to be accomplished for the day/event.    

Ex.  Dinner for 20 people at 3pm on Sunday, November 27th

Take the goal and break it down into different tasks.

Ex. Planning the meal, cooking the meal, invitations, RSVP's, décor, clean up

Sit (or email if you have to) with whoever needs to be involved in the planning and see if their task list differs from yours.  Use "I" statements to explain why you agree or disagree with what the other person has on their list. 

Ex. "I think the evening would go smoother if we used my idea of setting the table earlier in the day so as not to rush as guests are arriving.  What do you think?"

Still disagreeing on an issue?  Discuss the area and all the options for completing that task.  If the event is in one person's home, they may have an upper hand in deciding a particular item.  In the end ask yourself, is it worth arguing about? 

Ex. Will the decision to have chicken or pork for the meal make a difference in the relationship in a month?  If the answer is no, then it might be wise to move on and let one person choose how to handle that item.  If it is something that will matter in a month, then it is worth discussing calmly until a decision has been reached.

Once you are clear as to who has what responsibility, be sure everyone has confirmed their role.

Ex.  So I will send the invites and you will handle the RSVP's.

Confirm periodically that everyone is on task.

Ex.  Let's meet again in 3 weeks to see what we have accomplished and what has yet to be done.

If you run into a task that is harder than originally expected, revisit options for that item and try another approach or bring additional people in to help on that task.

Ex. I couldn't get the speaker we originally discussed to come to our dinner event so we need other ideas for a speaker.  Can anyone help?

Proceed through the event once the day arrives as best as you can with what has been accomplished.

Ex. We had 4 extra people show up to the event that said they responded but we didn't have them on the list.  I have four more chairs in the basement, we will make it work.

Acknowledge all those that helped make the event go smoothly. (that may make it easier to ask for their help the next time you plan something.)

Ex. I want to make a toast to all those who helped make this evening possible, especially Sue and Joe for being there from the beginning. 

ENJOY THE EVENT OR EVENING!!!!

Planning an event can be fun and exciting but also challenging.  It helps to look at it From The Positive Perspective......