“For the strength of the pack is the wolf, and the strength of the wolf is the pack.”
Rudyard Kipling
In a serene environment with beautiful skies and a bright sun, a group of 54 uniquely skilled women leaders from Cincinnati area dug deep to reach incredible outcomes. They reminded us that vulnerability is not only ok but imperative to our professional growth. Early on in our journey, we utilized an outdoor exercise giving us an opportunity to witness similarities/differences in experiences, habits, and personal life. From this moment forward, a bond started as participants supported each other during their sharing.
We returned indoors and began instruction on building out our Personal Strategy Map. Setting the stage with reminders of the variety of techniques (reflection, sharing, brainstorming, feedback) to be used as we all make progress in our own way. Setting the stage for our “why” in the WE Lead program, we moved through identifying core values (fundamental driving forces), motivations (the what and the why of participation), and a personal leadership statement. We witnessed, again, the power of the group as we assigned an opportunity to workshop the draft personal leadership statement with a partner. Reminders of personal value, highlighting strengths, and reminders to identify what is possible to achieve were just some of the high points of this groups collaboration.
We closed out the strategy map on Day 1. This final process of honing in on focus areas (guide for purpose), objectives (action steps) and strategies (plan for achieving) give each person a direction for their months in WE Lead.
On day two of the retreat, we utilized our peaceful surroundings for a mindfulness exercise to kick off the day. The group had several options and tips to create a personal mindful experience. The utilization of the time was wondrous. Solo walks, peaceful sits, connecting to nature, bonding with others, quieting the noise, clarity of needs—you name it the women took full advantage of the time allotted.
It was needed as we jumped back into our next hot topics: Confidence and Burnout! The outcome of time spent on these topics reminded/refreshed the group as they examined the issues through a “Problem Tree”. A pin drop could not be heard as women explored these issues, defining the core problems (trunk), root causes (roots) , symptoms (leaves) and lastly developing solutions whether immediate or organizational/structural changes. The group share of the “problem trees” was filled with nodding heads, support, and applause/cheers.
We used an assessment tool allowing us to bring our needs into focus and creating an action plan to fulfill those specific needs. WE Lead is a commitment and we want to be sure the group feels equipped to balance their professional and personal time. Through this exercise, the groups were able to share needs without judgement and lean on the recommendations, connections, feedback and strengths of others to build a plan to satisfaction.
We closed the retreat with an exercise to share an immediate action. Overwhelmingly a theme emerged: Be mindful of taking care of ourselves. And from the group’s reaction, it is evident the “lean in” to the retreat was out of this universe. Connections, sharing, feedback, fast friends, and leadership wins/disappointments made this group a pack. And, from my experience, these bonds will last through the decades.
What an honor and privilege to surround ourselves with these amazing women in a beautiful place!