The Art of Gathering
By: Priya Parker
Reflection by: Jane Anderson
Why I read it?
I was gifted “The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why it Matters” from a member of my team who has experience in event planning and is an avid reader.
What is it all about?
Parker focuses on the art of creating an exclusive, temporary, and alternative world that has a very clear purpose and authority. She explains how these gatherings are an opportunity to cultivate effective collaboration and connection; an opportunity to strengthen a relationship and a sense of belonging through a meaningful experience.
The book highlights some key ideas and guidelines:
-Have a clear and specific purpose as this guides all decisions.
-Intentionally include guests who align with your purpose.
-Have generous authority as a host by setting boundaries and setting the tone.
-Create a temporary alternate world with your design.
What caused me to pause?
I think we all have had experience with gatherings that were less than meaningful or where we didn’t feel as connected to others. Personally, I have said “the more the merrier” which came at the cost of deeper interactions had the headcount been smaller. I recently highlighted a situation with my team where I left my role as a host at an event to try to complete a different task. This created a sense of anxiety for guests who were looking for direction from me at that moment. Reading The Art of Gathering has led me to rethink the way I approach gatherings as an opportunity for learning and growth.
How will this book change my habits or influence me?
This book has impacted my view towards planning, executing a gathering, and being ruthless about purpose. I am more aware of my need for confidence in my authority as the host and my role in facilitating meaningful interactions and guiding the group. Before setting out to plan an event, being in the habit of asking the right questions around purpose will help me know better what to prioritize in the budget, who should attend, which vendors or selections will be a good fit, and which design components will enhance the experience.
In business or in social settings, having a structured approach with clear intention and design can create deeper connections and a more meaningful experience.
Add this to your reading list if…
You are in the habit of planning social or business gatherings; anything from a conference to a lunch date. If you want your gatherings to create enriching experiences that strengthen relationships, this book can help guide.
Pickle Rating: I would give this book a 5 out of 5!
