The Bellwether, July 1, 2024

PLANNING A RETREAT: BEST STRATEGIES

Set a Clear Goal To ensure success, have a clear goal in mind. Ask yourself: What kind of experience are we aiming for? What will attendees gain from this? Clear answers help lay a strong foundation. Engage Everyone Plan activities that all attendees will enjoy. Sessions should be on topics that interest everyone to keep engagement high. Get Group Opinions Create a list of potential activities and ask participants for their preferences. If response rates are low, ask for suggestions to ensure everyone has a say. Select Leaders or Managers Managing a retreat can be tiring. Assign team members to handle logistics so facilitators can focus on the program itself. Schedule Rest Time Consider the age and physical abilities of attendees.

Schedule downtime between activities to keep everyone energized and able to process their experiences. Choose the Right Environment A retreat should be held away from daily life. Opt for distant, peaceful locations that offer a break from the norm. Invest in Good Food Provide healthy, tasty meals catering to various dietary needs. Good food keeps participants motivated and happy. Monitor Engagement Check in with participants to gauge their engagement and adjust activities as needed to keep enthusiasm high. Keep a Flexible Schedule While it's good to have a plan, allow for some flexibility. Buffer times can handle unexpected delays or issues smoothly. Collect Feedback

Always seek feedback and be open to making changes. Understanding each participant's experience can help improve future retreats. Download here your Free Guide: Boss Up with Retreats Start Your Retreat Planning Journey Page 25

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