I Went on a Retreat to Reignite My Entrepreneurial Passion. Here's What I Learned That Will Forever Change The Way I Lead. An international adventure could be exactly what you need to achieve your entrepreneurial goals.
By Iza Montalvo Edited by Maria Bailey
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Feeling the weight of burnout crushing your entrepreneurial dreams? The pressure to make it and the constant cycle of comparing yourself to others' success on digital devices can leave you questioning if your passion is fading away.
If you've been nodding along, then listen up. As someone who's weathered the storm of startup life for years, I know the struggle all too well. But what if I told you there's something you can do to reignite your fire and catapult you back into the game stronger than ever? Enter the transformative world of overseas retreats. Picture trading in the four walls of your office for the charm of cobblestone streets and the allure of cultural workshops. It's not just a getaway; it's a lifeline for entrepreneurs drowning in burnout.
Related: How Taking Solo Retreats Away from Work Benefits You and Your Business
And here's the thing: The constant hustle can drain your creativity and leave you feeling stuck in a rut. However, research shows that stepping out of your comfort zone can work wonders for reigniting your passion and sparking new ideas.
Picture this: instead of staring at a screen and checking emails, you're exploring vibrant markets, indulging in local cuisine, and connecting with like-minded entrepreneurs from around the world. That's why last year, I joined a one-week business retreat to Le Mans, France, which completely changed my mindset and reignited my entrepreneurial passion. The slow pace and romantic architecture contrasted with my daily hustle at home. Annual overseas retreats are like hitting "reset" on your soul.
And here's the kicker: To truly reap the benefits of a retreat, you need to disconnect from the digital noise and consider the power of a digital detox. Think of it as a mental reset button —a chance to unplug and unwind and reconnect with what truly matters.
So, if you're tired of feeling burned out and uninspired, it's time to take action. Here are some tips to make the most of your retreat experience:
Plan ahead: Research potential retreat destinations that align with your interests and goals. Look for programs that offer a balance of relaxation, cultural immersion and professional development opportunities.
Set clear intentions: Before embarking on your retreat, take some time to reflect on what you hope to gain from the experience. Whether it's gaining clarity on your business vision or finding new ways to overcome challenges, having clear intentions will help you make the most of your time away.
Consider a digital detox: Commit to disconnecting from your devices during the retreat. Set boundaries around when and how you'll use technology, and stick to them. This will allow you to fully enjoy yourself in the experience and reap the benefits of unplugging.
Focus on personal development: Use this time of reflection and relaxation to invest in your personal growth and leadership skills. Take advantage of workshops, coaching sessions, and networking opportunities to expand your knowledge and intentionally connect. Investing in yourself is investing in the future success of your business.
Engage fully: Be open to new experiences and perspectives, and you'll be amazed at what you discover. Beyond the workshops and seminars, take time to explore the local culture. Engage with the community, try traditional cuisine, and participate in cultural activities.
Prioritize networking: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and industry leaders during the retreat. These connections can lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and mentorships. Exchange ideas, share experiences, and build relationships that extend beyond the duration of the retreat.
Reflect and integrate: After the retreat, take some time to reflect on your experience and how it has impacted you personally and professionally. Identify any lessons learned that you can integrate into your business and daily life.
Now, I know what you're thinking — retreats are a luxury, and who has the time? But here's the truth: investing in yourself and your wellbeing is the smartest business move you can make. Studies have also shown that taking time away from the daily grind can improve focus, boost creativity, and reduce stress levels — all essential ingredients for entrepreneurial success.
Related: 4 Reasons a Retreat Into Nature Will Increase Productivity
So, how do you turn this dream into reality? Start by setting specific savings quotas, analyzing your spending habits to identify areas for cutting back, and exploring side hustles to boost your travel fund. Consider opening a high-yield savings account. Credit card rewards with travel perks can be your secret weapon, and travel insurance provides peace of mind.
Unplugging overseas provides invaluable space for reflection. Strolling by Le Mans' medieval castles, my mind gained more clarity. I contemplated how to build a lifestyle business for true freedom – financial and time freedom.
Ready to escape the grind and reignite your passion? Your next big breakthrough could be just one retreat away.
