For as much as I love LA, I also love getting away.  This weekend, I spent some time at a Pepper Tree retreat center just outside of Ojai.  Nestled in the foothills of the local mountains, it’s a relaxing place with an incredible view, especially at sunset.

I facilitate lots of retreats and while I know it’s hard for everyone to get away for an entire weekend, its well worth it.  You have time to build relationships with other folks in your organization.  You have time to rest and relax.  And most important, by not being distracted by all the pressures of the city, you can be fully present in the decision making. 

I encourage groups to plan in advance and schedule retreats outside of the city a few months in advance.  I experienced this recently when I facilitated a retreat for the LA Urban Rangers on a UC Natural Reserve in the hills of North San Diego County.