Summary: Although humans are certainly social beings, consciously or subconsciously, we heavily rely on routine. In turn, our social gatherings become repetitive or “box checking” ordeals. Take a baby shower, for example. Priya Parker explains that the original purpose has far deviated from these modern-day celebrations. As hosts, we must intentionally define a purpose for gathering in order to successfully plan, invite, and execute that birthday party, double date, or work retreat.
Takeaways: I had a light bulb moment when Parker clarified that a category for a gathering (e.g. wedding) is NOT the same as the purpose for a gathering (e.g. make a unique public promise of love to embody my relationship and share that with my 50 closest friends and family members). Parker beautifully sums up, “Gatherings crackle and flourish when real thought goes into them, when (often invisible) structure is baked into them, and when a host has the curiosity, willingness, and generosity of spirit to try.”
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