This morning I had the privilege of helping with a luncheon. For the setup, the coordinator had assigned tasks to each helper. As we each fulfilled our designated responsibilities, I noticed how well everyone worked together. No one was standing around waiting to help. When one helper finished her task, she found someone who was still working and helped complete that responsibility.
One of my tasks was filling up the beverage containers. I understood that each table would get a water pitcher and an iced tea pitcher. I also understood that a cart with 9 pitchers was in the kitchen next to the ice machine. However, I did not remember that there were only 4 tables. So, I filled each of the containers with iced tea. Yeah, I did not realize the error until I began placing the tea on the tables and heard another helper ask where the water pitchers were. I then froze. I had filled too many pitchers, so there were none left for the water.
Another kind helper came to my rescue. She finished her task and came to assist me. We poured the tea from the 4 “extra” pitchers into containers. We then filled the empty containers with ice water. We had the tables set and ready to go before the event, but I learned these lessons:
- Check the number of tables when asked to put something on them.
- Don’t be afraid to admit you were wrong.
- Be willing to offer a solution and be part of it.
- Accept help when it is offered.
- Laugh about it, and remember to count next time.
By learning these lessons, I hope to be a better helper in the future. Event planning coordinators need lots of assistance. I am willing to help, but I do make mistakes. Thankfully, my mistake did not cause damage or loss of property. However, I did lose time because I had to correct my mistake. As I learn, I hope to save time by paying attention and planning before I act.