As business owners and leaders, we’re expected to show up with energy, clarity, and vision—every day. But when you’re deep in the day-to-day, it gets harder to see the big picture, let alone lead from it.

That’s exactly why I stepped away last week with my EO forum for an offsite retreat in Canada—and why I believe every leader needs to find time to do the same.

This wasn’t about getting away from work. It was about stepping outside of it, to look at things from a wider, wiser perspective.

Clarity Comes When You Hit Pause

At Eclipse Creative, we move fast. Projects, clients, teams, challenges—it never slows down. And that’s exactly why I have to.

The retreat gave me something I didn’t even realize I was missing:

• Room to think clearly
• Space to reflect deeply
• Conversations with people who get it

Being away from the grind—and with other like-minded entrepreneurs—reminded me that I’m not alone in the highs, the pressure, or the uncertainty.

Inside the Retreat: Confidential Conversations, Unforgettable Moments

Our EO retreat was rooted in trust, and most of what we discussed will stay between us. But I can share this: Monday’s deep-dive day hit hard—in the best way.

We peeled back the layers of our businesses, our families, and ourselves. We didn’t just talk strategy—we talked truth.

And in between the reflection and insight? We had a little fun too:

• Sunday night: Game 7 of the Maple Leafs, with EO magic landing us in an exclusive club
• Tuesday: Niagara Falls, wine tasting, and exploring Toronto

Because leadership isn’t all hustle and head-down. It’s also about joy, connection, and remembering why we do what we do.

The Real Lesson: Stepping Away Helps You Step Up

I came home with:

• A notebook full of ideas for Eclipse Creative
• A renewed sense of where I need to grow as a leader
• And a reminder that trusting your team to thrive without you is part of leading well

We can’t pour into others when we’re running on empty. Offsite retreats aren’t a luxury—they’re a strategy.

They’re where we get perspective.
Where we stop reacting and start envisioning.
Where we grow not just as business owners—but as people.

A Thought for Fellow Leaders

If you haven’t taken time to pause, connect, and reflect—you don’t need permission. You need space.

Surround yourself with people who get it.
Talk about the stuff that doesn’t fit on an agenda.
And don’t underestimate what a few days away can do for your business and your mindset.