I propose a twist on the oft-annoying and unproductive team-building retreat. Instead of meandering through a corn maze (ahem, which I have done), take your team on an outing that will really produce some change…through awareness.
Dig in the dirt. Get in there with your hands and on your knees. Plant small plants individually. Plant large shrubs and trees as a group. Dig. Pat. Shake. Rake. Mulch…make it pretty. Perfect for a service project, too. Donate the team’s time to a local Habitat® project.
Morning and evening meals are prepared and served by the team. They cook, eat and clean up together. Let the bosses serve their direct reports…even more fun!
Always a caveat, or two: Can’t talk about work. Can’t complain (yikes).
Have a scheduled quiet period in the evening, 30 minutes max, to sit and contemplate in silence while staring at the ocean, the meadow, the mountains or whatever vista the retreat offers.
Something about nature and working together in nature is harmonizing, equalizing. Try it with your team…
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