Woohoo, you have taken the leap and booked yourself a solo retreat. What an exciting opportunity. Time to dig in on that project and actually make progress without all the distractions of home.
While a business retreat does include deep relaxation, you’re there to work, right? Therefore it’s worth it to do as much as you can to get the most out of it. These three important factors will ensure you are happy with your time on this retreat.
- Preparation — what you do before the retreat makes a big difference when you’re here
- Structure — you determine what will happen each day and over the week
- Supplies — what to bring to make your week cozy and success likely
Preparation
Booking in for a productivity retreat is a huge signal to your brain that you’re taking this project seriously. In the weeks before the retreat, you can already start to get the benefit of this definitive action.
First step is to choose what you’ll be working on for this week, such as creating that course you’ve been planning. Start to bring together what you’ll need for that project including moving your old notes into one place on the computer. Create new folders or documents where they’re needed. Next clear the decks by closing out any small things that could get in the way. By clearly setting this intention you are already on your way to the goal.
Structure
What will the schedule of each day be, and how will the overall week go together? This is all your choice! Do you want a sunrise walk or cozy coffee by the fire? Do you prefer a slow morning so you’re well energised for a day of work? You might not be able to make these things happen at home where others’ schedules affects yours but here on retreat your time is your own.
Consider creating alternating blocks of typing and movement. You can head out for a walk around the property or unroll your yoga mat in front of the large television. Not sure how long those blocks should be? You’ll be figuring out what works best for you in real time.
You’ll also get to choose your mealtimes so for instance if you want a big hot meal at lunch and just nibbles in the evening, we can do that.
Supplies
Sometimes the idea of bringing everything with me that I’ll need is laughable — can I bring my entire office please? It can be hard to know what to bring that will help keep you on track and also provide special comforts when you need them.
For working you’ll want your own computer and charger but we have plenty of extension leads and power boards so you don’t have to pack those.
We’ll also supply a whiteboard or two, plenty of sticky notes, and a rainbow of whiteboard markers. Bring your own planner, outlines, drafts, and scribbles, and spread out over the entire house to sort them.
Consider what puts your brain into work mode. You might want to bring that certain candle or incense from your desk.
By preparing yourself and your stuff, you’ll be able to start being productive right away and maximise your investment. Questions? Ask me how to prepare best for your particular project.
