How to Convince Your Team to Disconnect During a Retreat: Strategies and Goals (2026)

In the age of constant connectivity, getting your team to unplug during a retreat can feel like an uphill battle. A recent study reveals that 70% of employees check their emails even while on vacation, indicating a serious challenge for teams hoping to truly disconnect. But with the right strategies and clear goals, you can create an environment where your team feels empowered to step back and refocus.

1. Set Clear Expectations Before the Retreat

Before your team heads off to the retreat, communicate the importance of disconnecting. Outline your goals for the retreat and explain why unplugging is essential to achieving them. Send a pre-retreat email detailing:

• Expected Outcomes: List what you hope to achieve during the retreat (e.g., team bonding, strategic planning).
• Communication Guidelines: Specify that emails and work-related communications should be avoided unless absolutely necessary.
• Preparation: Encourage your team to finalize work tasks before the retreat to minimize the need for connectivity.

2. Choose the Right Venue

Selecting a venue that promotes disconnection is vital. Look for locations that are remote or offer limited internet access. Here’s a list of some ideal venues, grouped by capacity:

Best for Small Teams (up to 20)

| Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-----------------------|-----------------|----------|---------------------|---------------------|---------------------------------| | The Retreat at Balcones Springs | Austin, TX | 20 | $150-200 | Team bonding | Natural surroundings, no Wi-Fi | | Lake Arrowhead Resort | Lake Arrowhead, CA | 15 | $180-230 | Strategy sessions | Lakeside views, outdoor activities |

Best for Medium Teams (21-50)

| Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-----------------------|-----------------|----------|---------------------|---------------------|---------------------------------| | The Grove Hotel | Boise, ID | 50 | $175-225 | Team planning | Mountain views, wellness focus | | Glen Cove Marina | Glen Cove, NY | 40 | $200-250 | Creative retreats | Waterfront activities |

Best for Large Teams (51+)

| Name | Location | Capacity | Price/Person/Night | Best For | Standout Feature | |-----------------------|-------------------|----------|---------------------|---------------------|---------------------------------| | Camp Sunshine | New Hope, PA | 100 | $125-175 | Large gatherings | Team-building activities | | The Conference Center | San Diego, CA | 200 | $200-300 | Corporate retreats | State-of-the-art AV equipment |

3. Create a Digital Detox Plan

Implement a structured digital detox plan during the retreat:

• Scheduled "Tech-Free" Times: Designate specific hours during which all devices are to be turned off.
• Engaging Activities: Plan activities that require full participation and focus, such as team-building exercises or workshops, which can help keep everyone engaged without the temptation of their devices.
• Alternative Communication: Encourage team members to communicate through face-to-face interactions rather than digital means.

4. Foster a Culture of Unplugging

Lead by example. As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the team. If you consistently check your phone, your team is likely to follow suit. To foster a culture of unplugging:

• Model Disconnection: Share your own experiences of disconnecting and the positive impacts it had on your work and well-being.
• Encourage Reflection: Provide time for team members to reflect on their experiences without technology, perhaps through journaling or group discussions.

5. Measure Success and Follow-Up

After the retreat, gather feedback to assess how well the disconnection strategy worked. Consider using:

• Surveys: Ask team members about their experiences and whether they felt more connected to each other.
• Goal Review: Evaluate whether the retreat goals were met and how disconnection contributed to achieving them.

Conclusion

Convincing your team to disconnect during a retreat is not just about setting rules; it’s about creating a supportive environment that values focus and connection. By setting clear expectations, choosing the right venue, implementing a digital detox plan, fostering a culture of unplugging, and measuring success, you can ensure a productive and rejuvenating retreat experience.

Action Items:

• Select a Venue: Choose from the venues listed above based on your team size and budget.
• Draft Communication: Prepare your pre-retreat email outlining expectations and goals.
• Plan Activities: Schedule engaging, tech-free activities that promote team bonding.