My-Style Corporate Retreat

Why does Jeff always organize his desk in such an ‘OCD’ way? Mary only wears bright colors to work, I wonder why? To me, the entire point of a retreat is to deepen your understanding of the people around you. Everyone must feel comfortable to express how they actually feel revolving numerous topics and be open to hearing others’ opinions.

Where would I plan to hold an ‘unplugged retreat’?

First and foremost, somewhere comfortable. If people who are used to modern commodities are stranded with ‘do it yourself’ tents in the middle of nowhere, their anxiety will get in the way of the whole purpose of the trip.

My vision would be to set up lodging in a ‘glamping environment’. There are numerous companies that specialize in cultivating an outdoor experience with modern luxuries built-in as well.

Some companies that offer these services include ‘Mendocino Grove’ in Northern California, ‘Collective Retreats’ across New York and the Midwest, and Under Canvas which stretches across California as well as other National Parks in the West.

These companies know that most people will still want the benefits of housekeeping, towel service, and private restrooms as well as other common hotel accommodations, but also allow guests to be connected to nature as well.

Not only is this concept probably a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity for many corporate employees, but it will stick out as being a unique and thoughtful way to get to know co-workers and develop lasting bonds that will transfer seamlessly into the workplace.

Activities:

I think throughout the retreat duration, there should be an array of different activities that cater to the varied personalities of a team.

First, would be some sort of trust exercise, whether it is leading one member of the team blind through an obstacle course, or the game where the entire team stands on a tarp and has to turn the entire tarp over while remaining on the tarp the entire time. These activities will allow members to connect and form bonds without even realizing it or needed to “get deep”. They might seem silly, but based on my personal experience they break the ice while also forcing folks to work together.

Next would be some sort of competition between smaller groups. Whether this might be a timed cooking competition, a scavenger hunt, or a puzzle of sorts, the entire group will feed off of the friendly competition. The greatest point here is that everyone feels rewarded at the end to foster their bonds.

To bring everyone back together after some fun competing, an exercise or yoga class should focus everyone back to the fact that they are a part of a larger team. Practicing mindfulness in these scenarios is crucial for everyone to feel good about who they are and what they’re doing.

Lastly, group discussion should peel back layers of personalities and display sides that never would have come to the surface in the workplace. Asking for each person to describe their life in 30 seconds, or talking about a time they failed will bring up some super deep and valuable comments that are telling about a person.

In the end, the most important part of the entire process is to create an environment where each individual feels comfortable sharing who they are with their peers. If this is done correctly, many different corporations and teams would be much more ‘well-oiled’ and productive than they are without a trip like this.