1/3 Activity (Body), 1/3 Reflection(Self), 1/3 Planning (Future)

One of the biggest challenges of any leader is managing time and priorities. It is important for the generative successor to set aside time for reflection, renewal, and planning. We need to take time out of our days and our lives to reflect and get clear about our priorities as well as to assess how we are progressing in the pursuit of our goals. Many leaders that I talk to make a regular practice of making this time available and renewing their sense of purpose and energy.

My belief is that a retreat such as this should address body, mind, and spirit and at the same time allow for the creation of clear goals and objectives.

Body: Taking care of your body and your health is essential for you to be the best leader that you can be. It is easy with a busy schedule to loose sight of the importance of sleep, exercise, and eating well. These are the foundation that give a leader the energy to lead.

Self: You need to take time to reflect on both who you are and what you value, as well as your mission, vision, and values. Creating the space to do this reflection is critical.

Future: There is an old adage that says, “If you don't know where you are going, any road will get you there.” Setting aside time to create clear plans, goals, and objectives to make your vision a reality increases the likelihood that your vision will come true.

Below is one framework for a reflective retreat to get a successor started.

1. Creating a generative mind and body – assess, get clear about, and engage in…
   1. Values
   2. Exercise
   3. Diet
   4. Mindfulness
   5. Spirituality
2. Creating a generative family life
   1. What do I want my family life to look like in one, three, or five years?
   2. What transitions will I go through?
   3. What transitions will my family go through?
   4. How will these transitions affect the achievement of my vision?
   5. What goals and action steps will help me get there?
3. Creating a generative work life
   1. What do I want my work life to look like in one, three, or five years? What transitions will I go through?
   2. What transitions will my family go through?
   3. How will these transitions affect the achievement of my vision?
   4. What goals and action steps will help me get there?
4. Sharing the plan
   1. Who do I need to share my plan with?
   2. Who do I want feedback, advice, and support from?