Daily treats will make Kim’s IOD experience even better

Being a Business Partner, Information On Demand begins for me on Saturday and runs through Thursday, six business-critical, potentially exhausting days (and nights). I  read Rebecca Bond’s post and that terrible knot in my stomach came back – the one that bothers me when I panic about the inevitable moment at IOD when jet lag, lack of sleep, over-scheduling, and – most likely – a bit of hangover, come together. Then I promise myself I will never do it again. But, of course, here I am!

I’ve promised myself six treats at IOD this year, one for each day, to help me enjoy the conference:

Day One/Saturday:  When I arrive I want to get out and see people. Day One I intend to treat myself to dinner at Strip Steak where I can watch everyone walking to and from the conference center – see and be seen!

Day Two/Sunday:  I need to get my pedestal set-up in the Expo Center and want to attend two of the partner sessions scheduled for Sunday. Then, the receptions kick off at 5:30. The Ravens play in the early game so I’m thinking I’ll start the day with huevos rancheros at the Border Grill, where I can watch the game and check out people arriving for the conference, then head to the Expo center and get set up.

Day Three/Monday:  This is the most important day for me as the Expo opens and I am hosting a champagne tasting after the Expo Reception. I have reserved two hours between 3pm and 5pm and have a playlist of 100% relaxing music queued up on my iPod. I am going to get to my room at 3 and nap!

Day Four/Tuesday:  I am booked wall-to-wall, with time committed to being in the Expo as well as six meetings at various locations around the Mandalay Bay. My gift to myself for Tuesday:   comfort. After three days of walking the concrete in heels I’m sure my feet will be sore, so I am planning on bringing clogs and thick socks and wearing pants. Then, when the workday is done, I’m going with sandals and barenaked feet to the networking event.

Day Five/Wednesday:  I intentionally scheduled nothing before noon Wednesday so I can visit the spa at the Mandalay Bay for a massage. I know I will be much better company in my afternoon meetings after spending time in the only place in the Mandalay Bay where you will never have to listen to Taylor Swift or Katy Perry.

Day Six/Thursday:  Getaway day.  I will set aside the most comfortable travel clothes I own so they are ready, and throw everything into my suitcase and head to McCarron. I’ve made it clear: no commitments the weekend after IOD. I will pick the dog up at the kennel, dump the suitcase, and sleep until Monday.

…and then start planning for 2013!