[zeroego]

Personally I have to "prove" that I took something away from the conference to justify the expense to my company. I take a lot of notes, even if it's basic material, because it allows me to copy the flow of the presentation for when I inevitably have to show that I learned something back at work.

[waynesonfire]

The paradox of expecting to take away something incredible and profound from a conference lies in the idea that the anticipation and pressure to have a profound experience can overshadow the actual experience itself. This could lead to an unsatisfactory outcome, becoming too focused on finding meaning rather than being present.

Maybe mention this as your take away from your next conference.

[zeroego]

Eh, I'd rather just play the game and get to travel, socialize, eat, and learn cool new stuff for free.