“The experience of the weekend was one of challenge, camaraderie, and relaxation. It was a brilliant program, and the setting is awesome. I felt connected with the others in a way that I’ve really missed in the past few years – on an even playing field. Power relationships dot my world – most of the people I interact with on a daily basis have a role (staff, investor, customer, supplier, partner). This was a great chance to get away from that, and be open and honest with a group of other people. A chance to put down the armor, and be open about the human side of leadership.
One of the most relaxing and empowering aspects, was hearing one’s own experience voiced by another CEO in the group. The job at times is isolating, and lonely. Especially in regards to decision making. Hearing that this is not my issue, but rather something shared by many others, has been exceptionally valuable coming back – for I see a greater pool of people to connect with and discuss issues – both business and personal. My own ability to listen and communicate is greater than it was, and therefore, not only am I finding more connections, but also a much greater richness in those conversations. Great strides in resilience and presence are allowing me to ask difficult questions – and the benefits of that are huge.”