Every year in September, the whole office relocates to Stora Karlsö for a couple of days, to bond and strategize and eat-sing-dance. Stora Karlsö is an island in the Baltic, off the coast of Gotland. After Yellowstone, it is the oldest protected nature area in the world. In spring and early summer, thousands upon thousands of birds come to nest, the island is particularly known for the big colony of common guillemot, but in September most of the birds have flown away. What is left are ash trees heavy with huge, skeleton-like bird nests, grazing sheep and breathtaking views from the high cliffs.
One could not wish for a more magnificent place for a kick-off.
It is a strangely intense event, the office retreat. Constantly being surrounded by people. The strategizing blending with friendly (awkward) chitchat and eating, walking, drinking alcohol, even waking up with colleagues. Don’t get me wrong, I have amazing colleagues. Such incredible people, you wouldn’t believe. But groups make me uncomfortable, I do not balance professional, personal and private well, I need room to breathe between takes, recharge. Time that isn’t available during an office retreat.
I had a nice time at Stora Karlsö. I got to know some colleagues a bit better, had some inspiring conversations, sang a Finnish tango with an impromptu band of colleagues, an accordion, a cello and a guitar, in front of the whole office (the exhibitionist and introvert in me in constant conflict), I danced like there was no tomorrow at the party.
And I was utterly exhausted once it was over.
Katja Malmborg 