I just wrapped up strategy discussions with my global, growth-focused group (of top-notch consultants) in Fiji.  Since we are a group spanning multiple countries from the US to Australia and Japan, we meet in interesting locations throughout the Pacific Rim and western North America.  Interestingly, we all felt as though this was our best meeting to date.  Although there are several reasons, a contributing factor is certainly the location.  We were all “on” in such a beautiful setting.  This was our view from dinner one evening.  Do you think you would come up with more powerful insights in a setting like this?

One tip to implement this week: Settings, Creative Ideas, Strategic Insights, Successful Outcomes

I’m not suggesting everyone hop a plane to Fiji………although it might be fun.  At the minimum, think about what settings are conducive to creative ideas, strategic insights and successful outcomes.  What do you think?

In my experience, it is rarely the same ideal setting for each person.  If not, what would be the value without diversity?  We have a good diversity of people, professional focus areas, cultures and more in our group.  Thus, we also have preferences as to ideal locations; however, we found one that would raise the bar for the collective group.  Why not think about doing the same for your work team?  What settings surround you?  

I’ve seen some of my clients decorate inside their offices and stimulate new thought.  That is certainly doable, inexpensive and can be great fun.  Other clients go to a historic hotel such as the Mission Inn in Riverside for a special meeting.  And, others go to an ideal setting such as the beach (regardless of the hotel or conference room).  Perhaps you can suggest that your customers or suppliers use a conference room next to an interesting restaurant or setting.  Think outside the box and you’ll find that strategic insights follow.  

For example, I remember one situation of a particularly exciting work group in 1994 where we drove success in the most mundane of locations.  We were motivated, came up with new ideas and achieved dramatic results – working from the kitchen of a colleague.  

Remember, it can sometimes be the subject, the team, the learning opportunity and more.