The word retreat has a number of different meanings.
In military terms it means to withdraw or back down, and often has connotations of defeat.
As a noun it has come to mean to country cottage or holiday home, a place to relax and get away from things. And, spiritually it refers to a process of meditation and renewal.
In recent years ‘retreats’ have also become popular amongst professionals. A chance for people from the same profession to spend time together, away from the pressures of everyday work-life, to re-focus, re-energise and feel refreshed.
For a busy professional, there are so many benefits to going on a retreat:
- A chance to ‘switch off’ and, at the same time ‘switch on’. (Switch off from the pressure and humdrum, and switch on to possibilities and opportunities)
- The opportunity to reflect. In our busy work lives it is often hard to justify spending time thinking – we are expected to be ‘doing’ all the time. On a retreat, reflection is just allowed; it’s positively encouraged!
- A chance to have some relaxation and that lovely feeling that comes with choosing to have some ‘me’ time
- Having time to look forward – setting new goals, or planning new ways of reaching your original goals.
- Having the empathy and understanding of like-minded people, and a few additions to your network of friends and colleagues.
In short, the chance to re-focus, re-energise and refresh, (and a far cry from the days of defeat and warfare!!)
If you work in learning & development, and you like the idea of a professional retreat, have a look at details of the trainerpace retreat at Wyboston Lakes Hotel on 21st and 22nd September.
Trainerspace – For Trainers – By Trainers.
