How to Craft Strong Company Cultures through Retreat Experiences in 2024
It’s no surprise that well-being is a growing goal within the corporate world. So many of us feel as though we’re running on a hamster wheel in constant motion, just waiting for a chance to get off and take a break, to catch our breath and look around. We have the entire world of information, notifications, (un)social interactions, work responsibilities, and more in a small rectangle we keep on our being at all times. It’s really no wonder we’re constantly ‘on’!
Each year well-being is becoming a larger focus for organisations and individuals. As more research gets published about the benefits of self-care and we start see those within our inner circles spending more time prioritising their physical and mental health, it’s hard not to catch the bug. As a well-being events company, we’ve been witness to more organisations big and small hosting events for their employees to show their support for personal growth and connection. Whether it’s a virtual yoga session, an aromatherapy tea workshop or forest bathing, we’re seeing a shift in the mentality of the corporate world. A happy and healthy workforce is a productive workforce after all!
What exactly is a retreat?
You might be wondering what’s considered a retreat. A well-being retreat is typically a day in a hand picked venue (indoor or outdoor) filled with activities which both bring your team together and provide a space for them to relax and find a form of inner peace. No two retreats are the same as you may choose a different selection of activities for your team based on their needs and wants. You know your team best, and you know what will provide the inner motivation and support. Typically you will find a beautiful menu of forest bathing, reiki, sound baths, beat yoga, rhythm movement, and guided meditation.
If you’ve been on a personal retreat before then you will already know the power within them. The deep emotion of experiencing a new form of seeing and feeling the world which you haven’t had the luxury of being introduced to before. They’re a powerful journey even if they are a day!
How will a retreat help my team?
By facilitating the creation of a strong company culture. That’s often a top priority goal of any business. If you have a workforce who disagree on instructions, who form tight exclusive cliques, who influence others with their bad habits, your business will struggle. The flip side of this coin is fostering a tight-knit community of like-minded individuals who all work towards the shared vision and goals of the business; sounds like pure bliss doesn’t it? We think so too.
A well-being centric retreat will provide you and your team with the following benefits:
Shared experience and bonding
Retreats provide an opportunity for employees to share unique experiences outside of the workplace. We often receive the most transformation and takeaway lessons from shared activities because we can discuss and relate to one another about what we’ve just experienced. You’re creating shared memories on a personal level which build your levels of camaraderie with your team mates. If you can allow the space for them to connect outside of the office you’ll find they will create better work within the office.
Open communication and trust
The informal setting of a retreat can break down communication barriers that may exist within the workplace. Open and honest communication is essential for building trust among your team. Do you have people you work with who you only really know on a surface level? If you’re working on a project together you may find a deeper level of collaboration if you know more about the way they prefer to work, and what their strengths and weaker areas are so you can fill in the gaps, or find someone who will. You’ll likely discover this through the medium of a retreat. It’s a wonderful chance to embrace each other for who we are, and express ourselves more openly.
The focus on well-being
By prioritising well-being, it sends a powerful message that your company cares about the health and happiness of its employees. You’re promoting a culture that truly values the overall health of a workforce, which I think we can all agree, we would see as a monumental benefit over a company who put money first, employees health last.
Return on investment in employee satisfaction
Investing in employee well-being through retreats can lead to increased job satisfaction and a sense of loyalty to the company as satisfied and engaged employees are more likely to contribute positively to the workplace culture. Your customers may be the life blood of your company but your workforce are the muscles which all work together to keep the company moving forward. As we mentioned in the beginning, a healthy and happy workforce are a productive workforce.
Professional development in a relaxed setting
Retreats provide an opportunity for professional development in a more relaxed environment. Learning in a comfort-centric setting away from the office can be more engaging and memorable. When you make the decision to host a company retreat it’s best to come to a highly experienced company (ahem) to source a wonderful venue suited to the activities you wish to undertake. If you want to choose forest bathing, you can guarantee we’ll find you a countryside estate.
Is 2024 the year for your company retreat?
We’re on the cusp of entering into a new year and that brings new goals, new opportunities, and new visions both for companies and individuals. Why not make 2024 the year your team experiences a transformative journey that not only rejuvenates but also strengthens your company culture? At Be In Your Element, we understand the vital role well-being retreats play in shaping resilient, connected, and engaged teams. Our carefully curated retreat experiences are designed to go beyond the ordinary, providing your team with an unforgettable blend of personal growth and team bonding.
Imagine your team surrounded by breath taking landscapes, immersed in activities that relax and inspire. Our venue partners, carefully selected for their unique offerings, provide the perfect backdrop for your company retreat. From serene retreat centers nestled in nature to sophisticated urban escapes, we have a diverse range of venues to suit your preferences.
Take the first step toward a stronger company culture. Book your retreat with us, and let 2024 be the year your team bonds, grows, and emerges more resilient than ever.
Connect with us today to explore the possibilities, and embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary—because your team deserves an extraordinary experience.