Oooh it can be SO game-changing to go on retreat… but are you going on the right kind of retreat for your business needs? That’s why I am going to unpack the three different types of business retreat for you!
This episode of the Heart-Centred Business Podcast is quite special because I recorded it while on a solo retreat – and it’s about retreats!
So, let’s dive in!
Here for the links referenced in the show notes?
Retreat details and the opportunity to be one of the first 3 to grab yours – CLICK HERE.
The business retreat … so good.
Hosting and attending retreats have absolutely transformed my life and business. Since 2013, I’ve been to countless retreats, which have helped massively in up-leveling my strategy and planning. I’ve attended retreats for health, well-being, friendship, crafting, and all sorts of hobbies. Back when I was living in New Zealand, I made a ritual of going on a solo business retreat to Queenstown every 6-8 weeks.
This ritual alone has contributed significantly to my business success.
But here’s the thing—retreats only rock when you choose the right kind! So I want to explore three distinct styles of business retreats and how to pick the one that fits your needs.
But first..
I have one top tip before we dive into the three types of biz retreat: Don’t forget the downtime!
Even as business retreats, they should include opportunities for rest and nourishment. Get your hair done, go for a massage, take a morning and get brekkie, watch that movie…. REST.
Swapping environments allows your brain to have the necessary downtime to think creatively, and it’s great to go on retreat and make BIG moves, big decisions, get lots done… but it’s also important to include the downtime of a retreat. Downtime is CEO time!!!
Style 1: Mostly “Doing” Retreats
Mostly “doing” retreats mean just that—getting it DONE! These are perfect if you have clarity on your strategy and need to get stuff done. I love doing these solo. However, I also co-host a retreat called #Finishfest with the fabulous Claire Riley. At Finishfest, we focus mainly on doing, not deciding. We have the same attendees every year, and they sign up well in advance! Claire also offers retreats in this category regularly in Australia and Bali.
If you’re headed for a mostly “doing” retreat, come ready with your strategy refined and plans clear. These events are incredible for when you need focused action time, away from the daily distractions like kids or chores.
Just imagine being in a space where everything is taken care of and all you need to do is focus on creating and executing – that’s what this type of retreat is perfect for.
Style 2: Mostly “Deciding” Retreats
If you’re seeking clarity or have big decisions looming, a mostly “deciding” retreat might be the right fit. These retreats, often styled as masterminds, are perfect for figuring out your strategy and planning. I host these kinds of retreats for my mastermind groups, and they’re incredibly effective for generating new ideas.
This is also the kind of retreat I love to attend with my peer mastermind groups, and is the format of retreat that Denise Duffield-Thomas offers at her Rose Farm. I’ve attended Rose Farm retreats THREE TIMES now – they are always super-insightful for me.
The key to gaining the most from a mostly deciding retreat is to set up some time afterwards for implementation. Post-retreat, I take the time to journal, jotting down my insights and actionable steps.
Then I deliberately block out at least one week after the retreat to dive into executing the plans and idea. Sometimes I then go on a week-long solo retreat focused on implementation, so I can get it into place asap.
Style 3: Blended Retreats
These combine both deciding and doing activities. While they sound like the best of both worlds, blended retreats can be tricky. Issues often arise if attendees are at different phases in their business or focusing on vastly different strategies. Blended retreats shine when there’s a narrow focus.
For instance, my Imperfect Post Project (IPP) retreat mixes both doing and deciding, but the focus is tight—content creation! Because of the clear objective, the retreat benefits everyone, even if they’re at different business stages.
Similarly, Shannon Sanders from Shannon’s Social Media hosts retreats focused solely on social media strategy and creation – nice and narrow, to ensure that everyone’s clear on what is being decided, and completed.
If considering a blended retreat, check that either there’s a cohesive group going in, or the focus of the retreat is narrow enough so everyone benefits equally.
Your Tashmas Gift
Because it’s Tashmas, I’ve got a special offer for you! In a previous #tashmas episode I offered VIP Virtual 1-day retreats (find out more at tashcorbin.com/435 for those)…
Plus, I’m excited to announce an opportunity for in-person retreats: In 2025, I’ve got space for three VIP in-person retreats, and they are on offer for UNDER half-price!!
More details and the opportunity to be one of the first 3 to grab yours – CLICK HERE.
AND DON’T FORGET – there are DAILY podcast episodes for the 12 days of #Tashmas! See you tomorrow for another practical episode, and another special gift.
Thank you so much for joining me for this episode of the podcast!
Until next time, I cannot WAIT to see you SHINE.
