I recently returned from a three-day strategic planning session at beautiful Harrison Lake located in southeast British Columbia, Canada. It was here I had the pleasure of leading and facilitating an extraordinary group of leaders from the executive team of Penfolds Roofing and Solar, located in Vancouver, BC.
This was not your typical corporate retreat sitting around all day in a conference room pouring over hours of PowerPoint slides needing copious amounts of coffee to keep us awake.
Just like everything in my life, I made sure we integrated some outdoor adventures, even though there was an extreme winter weather warning due to high winds and sub-zero temperatures.
We managed to get out on a treacherous hike in the ice and snow up the flanks of Mt Agassiz above Harrison Lake, plus check out some nearby ice waterfalls.
The next morning everyone was buzzing with creativity and imagination ready to take on our Strategic Planning for the years ahead.
Why did I do this? Because I believe that taking people out of their comfort zones is essential for team bonding, personal growth, and business success. Bringing adventure into organizations can lead to total transformation of their culture. From a culture of coasting to culture of risk-taking and growth.
Here are some of the benefits that we experienced from this three-day expedition:
Team bonding: Nothing brings people closer than facing challenges together. The hike was not easy, especially in the cold weather with the treacherous snow and ice where most of us fell over several times, where we supported one another and cheered each other on. We also had fun and shared laughs along the way. We learned more about each other’s strengths, weaknesses and personalities. We developed trust and respect for each other, which are crucial for effective collaboration and teamwork.
Fresh air: Being in nature has many positive effects on our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. It reduces stress, improves mood, boosts immunity, and enhances cognitive function. We felt more energized, relaxed, and focused after spending time outdoors. Getting outside also reminded us to appreciate the beauty and diversity that nature brings whilst fully appreciating the warmth of the retreat once we were back in doors in front of the fireplace.
New perspectives: It’s funny how a group activity that challenges the senses can really open up everyone’s personality. By exposing ourselves to new environments and experiences, we were all more relaxed with each other. Like breaking the ice as we’d done the day before. It helped us to challenge our assumptions and biases, learn more about each other, and appreciate different perspectives and feedback. When it came to strategy and planning, this momentum from our adventures gave the team more confidence and courage to explore new ideas and think of ‘out of the box’ solutions, and consider some riskier ideas.
The Result
A highly successful and productive corporate retreat that exceeded everyone’s expectations. Shaun Mayhew, CEO and Owner delivered a clear, compelling and inspiring Vision to his leadership team.
- We developed a Purpose Statement that would provide clear direction for the future.
- Reset the corporate Values to provide further alignment to the leadership team and all employees.
- Worked through an in-depth SWOT analysis unearthing our Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats in order to set the stage for diving into our Strategic plan.
- Developed a clearly defined Strategic Plan for the next 3 years with agreed action plans and responsibilities.
- Now with aligned Values, a defined Purpose, a clear Vision, defined roles and responsibilities, we built a success roadmap for 2024 and beyond.
- Most importantly, we strengthened the leadership team bond resulting in a collaborative commitment to work together to achieve Shaun’s Vision for the business.
What an incredible few days, I’m honored and excited to see the future unfold for Penfolds Roofing and Solar, following this amazing event.
If you and your leadership team are looking for a twist on your annual offsite corporate retreat for your leadership team in order to develop fresh and new ideas to take your business to the next level, do not delay, contact me today.
Don’t forget to download your One Page Plan for 2024, it’s not too late to get your personal goals nailed down for 2024.
I would love to hear from you and explore how together we can help you and your business achieve its goals. Let’s make this year the best one yet!
Stay Adventurous,
Chris Hardwick
Meet Chris Hardwick
Executive Business Coach
For over 20 years I've been helping entrepreneurs and business leaders to realize their dreams and achieve success.
As an entrepreneur, world traveler, adventurer, and motivator, I lead by example. My goal is to inspire you with my passion for life, success and happiness.
