There is a sense of closure in writing up a reflection after a major event – as though not writing about it means it did not happen. The experiences risk disappearing, or changing to suit future narratives.

As I posted the ACERE 2020 reflection post today, I realised how many conference reflection posts I have done. Others include the AFR Innovation Summit, GEC 2019, QODE 2019, ACERE 2019, 8 Point 8 2018, 2017 Regional Pitchfest finals, and the 2017 ESHIP Summit.

The reflection also reminded me about the conference test I used to use for career coaching. It goes something like this…

The conference test

Let’s say you are going to a conference tomorrow morning. You are very excited and can’t wait. You are going to meet people who are your peers.

You see people on stage who you look up to and perhaps want to emulate. In fact, you may even be on the stage at some point sharing about what you know for others.

The topics are so interesting that you can’t decide what to attend. Then again, you may not get to the sessions because you are so busy networking and planning with others in your field.

As you turn get ready for bed, you notice a brochure for the conference by the light.

What is the name of the conference?

Whatever you see on that brochure may help define the focus of your career.

With the ACERE conference, I expect I am getting close to the answer for myself.