What's Next: Design Your Journey

Transitions surround us. We move in and out of schools, into new roles and certainly through the range of life stages. Some are expected and planned; others just happen for personal and professional reasons. No matter what the catalyst, these transitions offer us so much perspective as well as a unique opportunity to learn about oneself and about what the future of “you” might hold.

This distinctive L+D workshop will give you the gift of time and space for introspection and reflection, as well as offer design skills and ways to take action. Through a combination of provocative activities such as empathy interviews, journey maps, the human-centered design process, and journal prompts, you will have the opportunity to both reflect on where you’ve been and plan for what’s next, whether it's a personal or professional next step. You will have time to think deeply about the questions you are hoping to answer and use curiosity to imagine possibilities for yourself and the path ahead of you. How can you use your best resource–YOU–as a tool, resource and source of wisdom for digging deeper into your why as you look forward? Best of all, you’ll be in the company of fellow travelers who are also working to create meaning from their paths.

Expect to be working individually and in small groups to explore essential questions, to learn through the stories of others, and to share one’s process and insights along the way. We will be utilizing the environment of Santa Fe to fuel our work through the local art, walking paths and opportunities in this special city. Our three days together will culminate in a warm and supportive “salon” where you might offer your insights, a personal story, or a piece of salient wisdom–whatever you feel comfortable to share.

This retreat will be followed by quarterly virtual meetings and a buddy pairing to allow you to stay connected, be accountable to yourself and reflect on your journey. These will be scheduled once per quarter for the 2025-26 school year. The facilitators are also available for a 1:1 coaching session in the fall of 2025.

Who is this retreat designed for:

• For school leaders or those contemplating a transition to “what’s next?” outside of their current role.

• For those who need time for reflection or creative inspiration for what’s next in their current place of work noting the particular skills needed to navigate change internally in an organization.

• For those in the midst of a big change in life–and wondering what 2.0, 3.0 looks like–at any stage of life. (New marriage, new parent, divorce, empty nesters, new role, geographic move)

• For those who are looking to transition out of a role or school and wondering how to “end well” or how to make a smooth and successful transition.

• For those who are interested in learning about utilizing human-centered design skills to design your role, your stage in life, or your work in schools.

• For schools and school leaders to enhance retention by allowing space for career and personal exploration—in and outside of their school.