Written and submitted by Patrice Boswell after attending her first-ever C&C conference in San Francisco.

Like most Create & Cultivate first-timers, I did my homework to prepare for the big day. I scoured C&C's site for articles on networking, what to pack in my purse, and what to wear. Anything that would give me insight on what to expect.

Even so, I arrived at the conference feeling anxious and out of my depth. The hours of note-taking, online shopping, and designing business cards didn't boost my confidence.

Because my problem wasn't unpreparedness, it was self-doubt. Believing I didn't belong in the same space as creators, inventors, and entrepreneurs. The same self- doubt that has kept me from doing the one thing I desire the most, writing.

They say you should surround yourself with people you want to be like. Create & Cultivate allowed me to surround myself with other storytellers.

And here's how the conference shifted my mindset.

Sense of Community

I attended the event solo, but I had so many event buddies. I met my first buddy in the entrance line, and we, of course, became each other's photographers. I learned about the history of the venue by talking with someone over breakfast and I had honest conversations about inclusivity between panel discussions and lunch. From the beautiful interior design to the bomb playlist, C&C curated an experience that set the tone for a good time. And you make friends when you're having a good time.

Most Inspirational Moment

The spotlight conversation highlighted the journey of a boss woman, Cindy Eckert who broke down barriers for a cause that was bigger than herself. She fought so that women could have options when it came to sexual desire. She illuminated a problem that was being ignored and provided a solution.

Women are often taught to compete against one another, which leads to independent success. But we're at our best when we're working together for the betterment of one another.

"Speak up, stand up, and lock arms."

Her efforts will transform the lives of many. That's a humbling revelation. The best work is the work where we're in service to others.

Biggest Takeaways

The keynote speakers, panel discussions, and mentor sessions provided the best advice.

"Refine your intention for why you want to do what you want to do."

To create authentic content, you have to stand for something and let it be the center for everything you do. You're less likely to get distracted by shiny fads when you remain true to your purpose.

"Connect unexpected dots that cross your path, at different times in your life."

You must pay attention to what's going on around you. There's inspiration everywhere, and a great idea can come from anything. Experience life with fresh eyes and ears wherever you go. In everything that you do.

"Go where the momentum is."

When you focus on the trees, you lose sight of the forest. This tunnel vision makes it hard to take inventory, reevaluate, and pivot. If something's not working, you're allowed to stop and ask why. You're allowed to try new things and go a different way. Even if it's not the path, you intended.

"If you want to be interesting; be interested."

Just because things are a certain way, doesn't mean you can't deviate. Do what's exciting for you. Whatever makes you tick, focus on that. That's what sets you apart from the person in front and behind you.

"Make and keep promises to yourself. It will build your confidence."

We're busy; things get pushed aside and never get done. But if we make small goals for ourselves, we're more likely to accomplish them. The little wins matter because they make the big victories more attainable.

Victory Moment

For me, being a contributing author for Create & Cultivate's blog is a big victory. After attending the conference, I devoured the pages of my journal. I then promised myself to pitch an idea to the editorial director. And I did. I wasn't sure where things would lead, but the small victory of sending the email was enough. Enough to build my confidence, which put me in the right frame of mind to create.

That's what the Create & Cultivate conference did for me. It inspired and motivated me.

Join us on February 22 for our Los Angeles Conference! It’s going to be one of our biggest ever with panels, experiences, networking, workshops, and so much more. Buy your tickets today because this one is going to sell out!