If you want something, you make time for it.  It’s as simple as that.  If you want to be a better athlete, you practice.  If you want to be better qualified for a job, you complete the training.  If you want to be a better Christian, where do you go?  To church?  Online?  On a spiritual retreat? 

Some people are content with their weekly Sunday attendance.  And some have fallen victim to the endless opportunities vying for their time no matter the day of the week.  Then, before they know it, it’s been 2 months since they have sat in a pew. 

Retreat planners often find a similar struggle in gaining attendees.  Events that are longer than one day especially have a challenge.  People constantly give the excuse of something else going on, and therefore, they are unable to attend the event.  But the truth is, if they really wanted to go, they would make the time for it. 

The first step in planning a retreat is convincing others that there is a need for it and that it will benefit them.  Otherwise, why would they put in the time, effort, and money?  We know people are busy.  Plus, the financial burden of such events can sometimes be an easy deterrent.  Therefore, it is up to event planners to expressly demonstrate the value of events.

Remember the event isn’t about the planner, the fun activities or even the number of guests.  Each event has a goal, and for most of the retreats we see, it is about strengthening that relationship with God.  What could be more important than that?