Pro Tip #4 for Taking Writers on Retreat
Small talk is for sissies. Bring everyone together the first night by disguising the ice breakers as casual, meaningful chats.
Welcome to Pro Tip #4 in my series of articles about designing unforgettable, amazingly magical, and potentially life changing retreats for writers.
I’ve learned a lot over the years about herding cats, writers, and introverts, and I feel like it’s time to share.
Potentially, the most awkward moment in any retreat comes after the initial arrival, when rooms have been located, tentative introductions have been made, and individual writers are wondering WTH they’re supposed to do next.
Half the writers jump right back on their phones to call the folks at home, check emails, and otherwise problem solve for other people. Have I mentioned that about 98% of the writers who go on retreat with me are women? It’s what we do, this problem solving from 150 miles away. For some of us, there’s no easy way to disconnect.
Half the writers jump right into writing. They scout out the best writing nook or an inviting arrangement of deck chairs and get right into their WIP. These writers tend to be the ones who have to leave first on Monday or - gasp! - can’t stay Sunday night.
Then there’s the other half, the ones that gravitate to the kitchen and great room to help put groceries away, set up the common space, and catch up with old friends.
That’s three halves. Say what now?
I said what I said. To me, as the coach, every retreat feels like there’s always 50% more going on than there is - especially when I’m also the host. Don’t tell anyone, but I like it this way. I love the energy and the mix of independent and co-dependent activities, and I love the practice of bringing them all together in one space for the benefit of everyone present.
But first!
Last week’s journaling prompts:
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#150 - Meek and Anger
#151 - Unexpected and Challenge
#152 - Return and Makeshift
#153 - Excite and Love
#154 - Discuss and Awake
#155 - Imagination and Perfection
TODAY #156 - Conundrum and Refine
The most interesting word-pairing for me this week was one of my favorites, simply because I favor the life-affirming and uplifting: #153 - Excite and Love.
I’m excited about this prompt. I love it so much because this is an invitation for you to just dig into, dive into, roll around in exactly what is so exciting for you about the thing you love. Or the person that you love. Or the job that you love. The art that you love. Something that you love. That brings you joy.
Spend your three pages today just indulging in the luxury of knowing you love it. It’s exciting. What, specifically, excites you about it?
What do you look forward to when you think about having to do something that you love or be with someone that you love?
This is such an exciting prompt. Enjoy it. You’re worth it.
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