Why Retreat?

“Retreat is an act of moving back or withdrawing”.

Retreat is an act of moving back or withdrawing. Personally,  I consider it as an act of moving backwards to go forward. It is a purposeful act that brings meaning. It provides the opportunity to reflect on life, on our existence, identifying who we are, and where we want to be. In essence, taking stock.

Self-Retreat

A self-retreat is one where you go off by yourself. You take the time to re-discover yourself in light of what you do. It may involve shedding some things that you need to let go of in order to reconnect with yourself and build your self-awareness. You do this through reflection which can lead to self-discovery, self-development, as well as increased self-esteem, and self-love.  Renewal of the self is important.

Ways to Retreat

For years my company organized retreats. We would do it for all employees, departments, or at the managerial level in order to drive the year’s annual goals. It proved to be an exercise that I have valued throughout time.

That said, retreats can be elaborate or quite simple. It can be at a resort, at a conference or success symposium, in a cabin in the woods, or a simple retreat in your own home. At-home-retreats can be risky due to the distraction of everyday life. But if you are disciplined and create that ‘away’ space for the duration of your retreat, it can still be quite useful. Hey, better to do something than nothing.

Just as long as the purpose is being met a retreat can be a transformational experience. It gives you the time to focus on you, your goals, desires and what brings you complete satisfacton. It illuminates self care, letting go, and open things up to new possibilities.

Why not use today to plan your retreat? Once done return here and share your experience. Or if you have been doing retreats throughout time, what has been your most satisfying experience? Do share.

Cheers!

Author: Dr. Shelly

Dr. Shelly Cameron is a leadership strategist, executive coach, and author of 12 nonfiction books, including The GreenLight Factor and Success Strategies of Caribbean American Leaders. She is the creator of the GreenLight Leadership Framework and founder of Global Coaching Corner. She leads the Ignite Caribbean 30 Under 30 Emerging Leaders program. Drawing on over 20 years of global HR leadership experience, she's passionate about helping professionals navigate change and design fulfilling lives through intentional goal setting and self-discovery. Her research was published in the JAABC Business Journal, and she was a featured author for the 2026 Africana Arts & Humanities Festival's 250th celebration. 🎉 A thank-you: SuccessfulLeaders.net just crossed 100,000 views! Grateful for every reader who's made this milestone possible. View all posts by Dr. Shelly