In most contexts, the word retreat suggests the act of running away from a difficult situation. But for us, the term has exactly the opposite connotation.  We have planned this retreat to be inclusively conceived, effectively executed, and delightfully entertaining in an attempt to address head-on some of the more challenging  issues facing us.  Because the retreat was an unparalleled opportunity for progress, perhaps a better term for this focused, action-oriented meeting  would be forward retreat, or strategic meeting.

Like anything worth doing, our forward retreat did not just happen.  It required careful planning and a significant commitment of resources, time, and creative energy — by planners, by the staff, and by participants.   This retreat was injected with fresh creativity in hopes of tying the agenda and activities clearly to strategic challenges that we face as Men.  At this forward retreat, we...
* Created new mind maps
* Discovered our multiple intelligence
* Formulated our life stories
* Fashioned a strategic plan for our growth
* Learned and practiced the art of coaching
* Learned to use intuition enhancers
* Reflected on personal and collective values
* Explored appreciative inquiry
* Focused on your core competencies
* Examined priorities and perceptions
* Relearned the art of listening
* Learned to receive and give feedback
* Learned about your teamwork inclinations
* Engaged in building trust
* Asked new questions
* Pushed the envelop
* Thought outside the box
* Engaged in exercises and scenarios
* Played energizing games
* Enjoyed and had fun
* Journaled individual ideas
* Took in new perceptions and awareness
* Went on an experiential adventure
* Practiced facilitative methodologies
* Celebrated together