I’m gonna get right to it: the world feels like it’s in chaos right now.

With political turmoil, economic concerns, and general uncertainty hanging in the air, many retreat leaders are worried about how all of this is going to impact their ability to fill retreats.

I’m hearing the same questions over and over: Are people going to stop booking? Should I hold off on launching my retreat? What if no one signs up?

Take a deep breath. I get it.

And I have good news: people still want (and need) retreats. In fact, during uncertain times, the need for transformational experiences only grows.

Your job is to help them see why investing in themselves now is the best thing they can do.

So, let’s talk about how you can keep your retreat sales strong, even when the world feels shaky.

Why People Still Want (& Need) Retreats During Uncertain Times

We tend to think that when things get unstable, people stop spending money.

But here’s the reality:

• Self-care becomes a necessity, not a luxury. Stress levels are at an all-time high, and people are seeking spaces to unplug, reset, and reconnect with themselves.
• The wellness and personal development industries thrive during stressful times. History has shown that when the world feels unpredictable, people crave meaning, clarity, and personal growth.
• Experiences matter more than ever. People are being more intentional about where they spend their money. Instead of random purchases, they’re investing in experiences that truly nourish their well-being.

If you position your retreat as a powerful antidote to the stress, uncertainty, and overwhelm people are feeling right now, they’ll see the value in prioritizing it.

What Retreat Leaders Can Do to Keep Bookings Strong

Now that you know demand is still there, let’s make sure your retreat stays at the top of people’s must-book list.

1. Address Concerns Head-On

• People are naturally going to have hesitations right now. Instead of ignoring them, acknowledge their fears and offer reassurance.
• Use your marketing to emphasize why now is the perfect time for a retreat.
• Address common concerns in your FAQ section or sales emails (e.g., “What if something happens politically that affects travel?”).
• Share testimonials that highlight how past attendees benefited from taking time away.

2. Offer Flexible Payment Plans & Policies

• Giving people options makes it easier for them to say yes.
• Provide staggered payment plans to ease financial hesitations.
• If possible, offer clear and fair cancellation policies so people feel secure booking now.
• Require folks take out trip cancellation insurance to reduce decision-making anxiety.

3. Reassess Your Messaging

• Your retreat is not just an escape — it’s a necessity for well-being, clarity, and resilience. Shift your messaging accordingly:
• Instead of “Take a break from your busy life,” try “Ground yourself in uncertain times and gain the clarity you need.”
• Instead of “Unplug and relax,” try “Discover the inner peace you need to navigate a chaotic world.”
• Speak to the emotional relief your retreat provides.

4. Focus on Your Community & Engagement

• People buy from people they trust. Now more than ever, staying connected with your audience is key.
• Show up consistently in your emails and social media.
• Host live Q&As to address hesitations and deepen relationships.
• Create content that reassures and inspires (behind-the-scenes retreat prep, testimonials, personal stories, etc.).

5. Leverage Urgency the Right Way

• Urgency doesn’t mean scaring people into booking — it means helping them realize why they shouldn’t wait to prioritize themselves.
• Use limited availability to encourage timely bookings. (“Only 3 spots left!”)
• Highlight early bird pricing and emphasize why booking sooner is beneficial.
• Frame it as an act of self-care rather than a time-sensitive deal.

6. Tap Into Partnerships & Affiliates

• You don’t have to do this alone! The more people spreading the word about your retreat, the better.
• Collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs and influencers who can share your retreat with their audience.
• Set up an affiliate program to reward referrals.
• Guest on podcasts, write articles, or team up with wellness brands to expand your visibility.

Mindset Shifts for Retreat Leaders

Yes, times are unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you should retreat (pun intended!) out of fear. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Scarcity thinking won’t serve you. If you believe people aren’t going to book, you’ll show up hesitantly in your marketing. Stay confident in the value of your retreat.
• Some people may take longer to decide — and that’s okay. Keep nurturing them.
• Visibility is more important than ever. Now is not the time to shrink. Double down on your marketing and connection efforts.

Final Thoughts: People Need What You Offer

Bottom line: If you’re feeling uncertain about selling your retreat right now, you’re not alone.

But remember this: your retreat is exactly what people need in times like these. You have something powerful to offer—a space for renewal, clarity, and transformation.

So instead of pulling back, lean in. Show up, connect, and let people know why investing in themselves right now isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity.

If you want more support in marketing and filling your retreats and growing your business, consider joining me August 22-29th for our Cruise Croatia Mastermind! It’s the perfect remedy for sitting behind your desk alone worrying about the world economy.

Being with a group of fellow heart-based entrepreneurs who are making a difference in the world and talking about top level strategies for doing business in challenging times is EXACTLY what the doctor ordered!

Let’s keep changing lives, one retreat at a time. ❤️