As event planners, we often juggle more responsibilities than we should. We take on countless details, manage multiple moving parts, and strive to create memorable experiences for those we serve. It's fulfilling, but it can also be exhausting. Raise your hand if you've ever asked yourself, Do I even like planning events anymore?
If that thought has ever crossed your mind, take a deep breath and think back to the reason why you started event planning. Maybe you saw it as an opportunity to serve God. Maybe it was because you genuinely love bringing people together and creating meaningful experiences. Or, maybe you were simply the best fit for the role, and someone "volun-told" you.
Regardless of how you got here, you have a calling: to use your God-given gifts to expand His kingdom and serve your brothers and sisters in Christ.
Instead of throwing in the towel, let's talk about wellness—what we can do to take care of ourselves so that we can better care for others. A well-balanced event planner is a more effective event planner.
Here are our top five essential wellness practices to keep you healthy, energized, and spiritually strong!
1. Eat and Drink Well
Nutrition might not be the first thing on your mind when juggling event logistics, but it is essential to your energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being. As planners, we often grab quick snacks, caffeinate excessively, and forget to drink enough water. Over time, these habits take a toll on our bodies and minds.
Then God said, 'I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.' —Genesis 1:29
Instead, prioritize healthy, nourishing foods that provide sustained energy. Pack snacks like nuts, fruit, or protein bars to keep you fueled. Avoid excessive caffeine and opt for water or herbal teas to stay hydrated. Eating well isn't just about physical health—it helps you stay mentally sharp and spiritually present for your work.
2. Sleep and Rest
Late-night planning sessions, early-morning setups, and last-minute adjustments can wreak havoc on your sleep schedule. However, rest is required! And not just for your body but also for your ability to function effectively in your role. Lack of sleep leads to increased stress, impaired decision-making, and burnout.
In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. —Psalm 4:8
Prioritize sleep as much as possible. Aim for at least seven to eight hours per night, and if your schedule doesn't allow that, take short naps when you can. The cat nap is often underrated! Beyond sleep, try to incorporate meaningful moments of rest throughout your day, whether it's a five-minute break to breathe, a walk outside, or sitting quietly with God. Rest is a gift, and we need it to sustain our calling.
3. Prayerfully Approach Event Planning
It's easy to get so caught up in logistics that we forget to invite God into our planning. But He is the ultimate event coordinator! Every event we plan is an opportunity to glorify Him and serve His people.
Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans. —Proverbs 16:3
Start each planning session with prayer, asking for wisdom, peace, clarity, and energy. When challenges arise, turn to Him instead of relying solely on your own strength. Pray for your team, attendees, and the event's purpose. Let your work be an act of worship rather than just another task on your to-do list.
4. Designate and Build Your Team
Trying to do everything alone is a fast track to burnout. One of the best things you can do for your wellness is to build a strong team and delegate responsibilities. Delegating will not only help ease your workload but also empower those around you to use their own Godly gifts!
Therefore, encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. —1 Thessalonians 5:11
Identify reliable team members and assign tasks according to their strengths. Train and equip volunteers so that you don't feel the need to oversee every little detail. Let go of the need to control everything—perfection is not the goal. The goal is to serve well, and that happens best when we work together in unity.
5. Remember the Sabbath and Keep It Holy
Event planning often demands time and energy, but we must remember that God commands us to rest. The Sabbath is not just a suggestion—it's a gift and a necessity for our well-being. Taking a designated day of rest allows us to refuel spiritually, emotionally, and physically.
There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from His. —Hebrews 4:9-10
Set boundaries to protect your Sabbath. Resist the urge to check emails, finalize details, or squeeze in one more task. Instead, use this time to reconnect with God, spend time with loved ones, and rest in His presence. When we honor the Sabbath, we acknowledge that the success of our events does not rely solely on our efforts but on God's provision and grace.
Event planning is a calling that requires dedication, creativity, and perseverance. However, it should never come at the expense of your well-being. You can maintain balance and avoid burnout by eating well, prioritizing rest, praying over your work, building a supportive team, and honoring the Sabbath.
God has equipped you for this role, but He also calls you to care for yourself. When you are well—physically, emotionally, and spiritually, you can serve more effectively and joyfully. So take care of yourself, lean on Him, and continue to create events that glorify God and bless His people. You've got this!