My First Think Week: A Journey into Deep Reflection
I just came home from my very first Think Week, and I want to share my thoughts, experiences, and reflections on it.
Before diving in, I'll explain what a Think Week is, why I did it, and how I prepared for it. I'll also share tips for planning your own and how you can join retreats inspired by this transformative experience.
What is a Think Week?
If you've never heard the term before, you might wonder what it actually is.
As far as I know, the idea originated with Bill Gates, who has been doing Think Weeks for over two decades. He spends a full week in a remote cabin by himself, with no distractions apart from his own mind, focusing purely on reading, reflecting, and exploring new ideas.
It's said that some of Microsoft's most important innovations were born during these weeks. Others use a Think Week for self-reflection, re-evaluating their values, beliefs, and decisions. Think of it as a hyper-productive, digital detox retreat.
It's not just for tech billionaires, though. Anyone can benefit from taking intentional time to step back and deeply reflect on their life and goals.
Why a Think Week Can Transform Your Life
In today's world, we're busier than ever. Our calendars are packed with meetings, and we're constantly planning the next thing. With the internet and social media at our fingertips, distraction is only a click away.
This constant noise can block creative thinking and leave you stuck in the day-to-day grind. That's where Think Weeks come in—they're designed to enhance creativity, improve clarity, and boost overall well-being.
When I first heard about the concept, I was immediately drawn to it. With so much happening in my life, the idea of taking a break to fully focus on myself felt like exactly what I needed.
Preparing for a Successful Think Week
Preparing for a Think Week takes a bit of planning, but it's worth the effort to ensure a meaningful and productive experience. The right preparation helps you create an environment that fosters focus and introspection while minimising distractions.
Finding the Perfect Location
The location is key. While Bill Gates has access to luxurious cabins, it's easy to find a suitable place without breaking the bank. I opted for a simple Airbnb in France, just a two-hour drive from my home. The rule is simple: less is more. A simple, quiet space surrounded by nature is ideal.
Consider finding a spot with a sauna or hot tub—it can be a great way to unwind after an intense day of thinking and reflecting.
I was fortunate to find a beautiful cabin that perfectly fit my needs. It had a cozy, rustic charm and was surrounded by the peaceful stillness of nature—a true haven for uninterrupted thought. Here's what it looked like:
Crafting an Effective Agenda
With the location sorted, I planned my Think Week around this guiding principle:
"Use the week[end] to create the life that you want to have instead of to escape the life that you have."
My agenda was a mix of strategic planning and personal reflection. I prepared exercises and questions to explore my values, fears, and strengths while also brainstorming future projects like planning my dream home and financial strategy.
I also brought a selection of books to dive into and scheduled time for extended meditation sessions to clear my mind.
Planning Your Meals
Prolonged focus requires fuel, so I planned my meals carefully and brought everything I'd need in advance. Nutritious and energising food helps sustain both your physical and mental energy during a Think Week.
Opt for light, healthy, and fresh foods that keep you energised without making you feel sluggish. Think colourful salads, fresh fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Preparing meals in advance not only saves time but also helps maintain your focus throughout the day.
Treat yourself to something special—like high-quality coffee or Japanese green tea in the morning, or a refreshing cold drink in the evening. Little indulgences can make the experience even more enjoyable.
My Experience
On October 18, I packed my bags and embarked on what would become one of the most transformative weeks of my life.
At first, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness.
To give you some context: I have been dealing with anxiety for over 10 years and ever since I was diagnosed with an aortic root aneurysm, safety and comfort were always amongst my top priorities.
And here I was, going to a remote cabin in a foreign region all by myself.
But, the anxiety melted away when I arrived at the cozy cabin. The smell of wood, the peaceful surroundings, and a playlist of classic Funkadelic helped me settle in.
Over the next few days, I tackled big questions about my life, worked on personal projects, and spent hours reading and reflecting. By day three, I was fully disconnected from the outside world. Creativity flowed freely, and I came away with countless new ideas.
Of course, it wasn't all easy. Long stretches of focus left me physically and mentally drained at times. But these moments taught me the importance of balancing mental effort with self-care—something I'll prioritise moving forward.
Finally, I finished my Think Week diving more into the topic of meditation by reading Altered Traits. Then I packed my bags, had a final espresso and started my journey home.
Tips for Your Own Think Week
Inspired to try your own Think Week? Here are some practical tips to get started:
- Choose your focus: Decide on 3–5 key questions or themes to explore
- Pack intentionally: Bring books, a journal, and any tools that inspire you
- Schedule breaks: Balance deep focus with time to relax and recharge
- Create a plan: Outline your goals for each day but stay flexible—you might uncover insights you didn't expect
If you're inspired by the idea of a Think Week but unsure where to start, I've created retreats designed to offer the same transformative experience.
These retreats provide the perfect environment to step back, focus deeply, and reconnect with yourself.
Conclusion
My first Think Week was one of the most intense yet rewarding experiences of my life.
I read seven books (fully finishing four), watched insightful documentaries, and spent hours reflecting on topics like health, habits, financial independence, and personal growth.
I gained clarity on my goals and walked away with actionable insights to improve my life. It's an experience I'll definitely repeat, and I encourage you to try it, too—even if it's just a single day at home.