Reframing the Human Experience
Rainer Maria Rilke“The future enters into us, in order to transform itself in us, long before it happens“
Complexity is expanding, interconnections are multiplying, social systems are morphing, and technology is accelerating.
Are the tools and methods touted through futures thinking propelling us into a new world of equity, empathy, and generative consciousness?
Is foresight enough?
Fortunately, an even deeper and more holistic perspective around foresight is emerging as practitioners and researchers are pulling from domains such as systems thinking; complexity, ecological, and anticipatory sciences; and pattern identification to amplify our global foresight capabilities. As a discipline, foresight is transcending risk management, opportunity development and alternative visions of the future.
A new view is arising that embraces the biological, regenerative, and progressive nature of foresight. A beautiful, unfolding reality depends on an awareness and transformation of futures thinking. Is it possible to cultivate foresight as a collective capability – a “mental technology” of care, empathy and love – that transforms our broken systems to become more human, more planetary, and more restorative?
We at TFSX answer with a resounding YES.
Our endeavor takes on the evolution of foresight through intimate, diverse conversations.
There are no slides or formal exercises, but instead, the experience evolves organically from the contributions of the diverse foresight professionals who attend.
The lush and tranquil setting provides a safe space to imagine, to be vulnerable, and to learn, unlearn, and relearn.
Planned group excursions and meditation opportunities balance genuine fun and connection with incredible personal metamorphosis.
A central theme in Transformations of Natural Foresight® Retreat is the concept of Holopticism, and how this relates to our view of foresight and futures thinking.
Transformations of Natural Foresight® explores the framework beyond its practical applications– toward cultivating foresight as a collective, cooperative, and co-creative trait.
We promote an internal, personal transformation in each of us and an evolution of the field of foresight.
One of the most unique aspects of Transformations is the intimate discussion and dialogue fostered throughout the retreat.
Our topics center around the Holoptic Foresight Dynamics® philosophy, including:
Dates: September 16-19, 2024
Program Fees: Cost is per person and includes lodging, meals, and experiences. All-inclusive, tiered pricing honors individual budgetary constraints and reflects the following lodging options:
Early Bird Rate (valid thru January 15, 2024):
Regular Rate (valid after January 15, 2024):
Note: Cabins are pine A-Frame structures, approximately 176 sq. ft. each. Cabins are equipped with lanterns, blankets, and propane heaters. The shower/bathhouse provides electricity/charging and a personal mini-locker for charging electronics (or locking them away for the duration of your stay). Linens and towels are provided.
Payment plans are available. Please indicate your interest in this option on your application and we can discuss it further during your introductory call.
Group Size: 17 – 27 guests max (depending upon shared outdoor lodging)
COVID Requirements: We will follow CDC guidelines. Proof of vaccination may be required.
“Everyone needs beauty as well as bread, places to play and pray, where nature heals and gives strength to body and soul alike.”
John Muir
“We challenged ourselves to break away from what we “know” to explore other truths and possibilities. We focused on the power of collective thought and how reality is usually a combination of our unique individual perspectives. I left the retreat overflowing with notes, ideas, and inspiration.”
Katie Rucker, 2022 Participant – Read more of Katie’s experience here.
Transformations is not a traditional training, and will be unlike any other TFSX offering.
While all of our programs share the same DNA in terms of the Natural Foresight® Framework, the in-person program will be an exploration of foresight as a philosophy and allow us to consider how our foresight practice must evolve for transformational impact.
There will be no slides or formal exercises, but instead, the experience will evolve organically from the contributions of the diverse foresight professionals who attend.
No, the inaugural event was held in September of 2022 at Bell Valley Retreat in Boonville, California. A detailed recap of the event is available here.
We will have exclusive access to all property amenities. Take a tour of the Tops’l Farm property here.
Since 1936 Tops’l Farm has been a place where folks have retreated from the ordinary hustle and bustle of life to slow down, relax and enjoy the unique flavor of mid-coast Maine. About an hour from Portland, Tops’l has taken great care to preserve its Maine roots while creating new inspired spaces for the ultimate enjoyment of its 83 acres. For generations, their family gathered, played, worked, and rested here. They don’t think much needs to change.
Check-in is on September 16, 2024, at 3 PM.
We will provide all meals while you are on the property, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, with a focus on simple, nourishing meals with seasonal ingredients.
Breakfast & lunch will be casual offerings while dinners will be shared in the barn space on the property.
If you have dietary restrictions, please let us know on your application. Please note that the event venue cannot accommodate severe food allergies. Foods free of gluten, dairy, and other allergens can be provided, though they are not certified in any way.
We will NOT provide alcoholic beverages. The venue will have a limited assortment of alcoholic beverages available for purchase at dinner and in the shop on the property.
When submitting your application, you will choose one of the following accommodation packages:
Cabins are pine A-Frame structures, approximately 176 sq. ft. each. Cabins are equipped with lanterns, blankets, and propane heaters. The shower/bathhouse provides electricity/charging and a personal mini-locker for charging electronics (or locking them away for the duration of your stay). Linens and towels are provided.
Based on your selection, our team will place individuals in the respective accommodations.
We do not offer roommate matching. However, if you and a friend would like to join the retreat together, we can offer a reduced rate for the A-Frame Cabin accommodations. You will each need to complete the registration process and participate in the full experience.
If a spouse is interested in attending, they must complete the registration process and participate in the full experience.
We will follow CDC guidelines available at the time of the retreat. Please note proof of vaccination may be required.
We encourage all participants to take the precautions that make them most comfortable.
Reservation transfers will not be accepted.
You may not defer your program fee to a future program.
Cancellations made seven weeks before the start of a program will receive a refund less 25% of your purchased program fee (post-non-refundable deposit);
Cancellations made six weeks before the start of a program will receive a refund less 50% of your purchased program fee (post-non-refundable deposit);
Cancellations made five weeks before the start of a program will receive a refund less 75% of your program fee (post-non-refundable deposit).
Beginning three weeks before the start of a program, all reservations are non-refundable.
We suggest you consider investing in travel insurance, in case an extenuating event prevents you from attending.
Yes, please indicate your interest in a payment plan on your application. We will discuss this option with you further on your introductory call.
See the packing recommendations from Tops’l Farm here. As we get closer to September, we will share additional recommendations with you.
The two most widely utilized airports to access Waldoboro are Portland International Jetport in Portland, ME (~ 1.5 hour drive) or Boston Logan International Airport in Boston, MA (~ 3 hours).
With the opportunity to explore the Midcoast and multiple airport options, we will not provide airport transportation.
Here is a link to learn more about the Midcoast Maine area.
