Three days.

Multiple hours.

All set for the big day.

Three alarms.

Fail.

Thank you Frederic della Faille for reminding me about the epic sentence:

It’s ok to fail.

Sunday 30 November, 8.00 pm

We were ready. Briefings with all the volunteers. Team building activities. Set-up and rehearsals. During three days we had repeated out mantra: Relax, smile and be on time on the big day. Me, as the team leader of the Welcome Team, I felt confident of my team and I would be proud to stand there with them at 7 am.

Monday 1 December, 6.54 am

I am happy. Smiling. Feeling proud of everyone being there on time. Feels warm and nice.

Wait.

I open my eyes. I realize.

I am still in bed.

Now picture this:

Jump out of bed and pyjama in one go. Scream. Text people that the impossible just occurred. Scream again. Shower in 30 seconds (world record?), forget towel – jump into clothes. Scream some more. Call taxi. Assemble all bags and attire and run down to the taxi.

Monday 1 December, 7.24 am

I arrive. Everyone are at their stations. Smiling. Happy. Relaxed. And excited for the arrival of the 2000 TEDxsters. The briefing went well even without me there. The world did not end.

And the Welcome Team had a good laugh upon my arrival looking like Son Goku in Dragon Ball.