After graduating from high school and becoming an avid reader, I discovered Ernest Hemingway as one of my all-time favorite authors. The ‘Lost Generation’ of writers, to which Hemingway belonged, had much to say about the societal changes of the 1920s, and their reflections feel strikingly relevant to today’s political and global landscape. One fascinating fact I learned about Hemingway, one of the most celebrated writers of the 20th century, is his unique preference for writing while standing—a habit he believed sharpened his focus and kept him energized. (Ernest Hemingway preferred to write standing up) This unconventional practice enabled him to produce some of his most iconic works. While a standing desk might seem unrelated to school activities, Hemingway’s approach offers a valuable lesson for Activities Directors: adopting unique strategies and perspectives can lead to more impactful and engaging events.

The Power of Focused Energy

Hemingway’s standing desk symbolized his commitment to immersing himself in his craft. Similarly, Activities Directors must bring focused energy to planning events. Whether orchestrating a spirit rally, prom, or service project, it’s easy to get bogged down by distractions or competing priorities. Taking a page from Hemingway’s book, Directors can embrace practices that boost energy and maintain momentum—be it conducting brainstorming sessions in dynamic environments or scheduling active meetings that encourage movement and fresh ideas.

Streamlined Planning = Clear Communication

Hemingway was known for his concise and impactful writing style. His words were deliberate, and his messages were clear. Activities Directors can adopt this same principle when planning events by streamlining communication. Clear instructions for student leaders, well-defined roles, and straightforward promotional messages can make the difference between a chaotic event and a seamless experience. Simplifying the “script” for an event ensures that all participants understand the vision, just as Hemingway’s readers could grasp his intent.

Innovation through Perspective

Standing up gave Hemingway a new vantage point—a shift in physical perspective that often inspired creativity. Activities Directors can emulate this by seeking fresh perspectives in their work. Listening to diverse student voices, collaborating with faculty, or even observing successful events at other schools can spark ideas. A willingness to step outside the comfort zone often leads to breakthroughs, much like Hemingway’s adventurous life informed his stories.

Resilience Under Pressure

Hemingway famously described writing as a disciplined act, requiring persistence and resolve. Planning school events often mirrors this experience—tight deadlines, unforeseen challenges, and high expectations. Like Hemingway, Directors must navigate these pressures with resilience, adapting to last-minute changes and staying committed to the event’s success.

Energizing the Community

Hemingway’s dynamic approach to writing allowed him to connect deeply with his readers, making his stories resonate across generations. Activities Directors have a similar opportunity to create experiences that energize and unite their school communities. Events that celebrate diversity, foster school spirit, and encourage participation can leave a lasting impact, much like Hemingway’s work continues to inspire readers worldwide.

By adopting Hemingway’s principles of focused energy, concise communication, fresh perspectives, resilience, and community connection, Activities Directors can elevate their event planning. So the next time you’re tackling the details of your school’s next big event, think of Hemingway at his standing desk—innovative, determined, and ready to make an unforgettable impact.