One idea from a lay person perspective: Just be open with participants on the reason for a remote location for the retreat (or any other “manipulative” tactic).
In Buddhism there is especially for newcomers a practice of strengthening one’s dedication to Buddhist practice. It is usually taught with a clear message that “performing these practices will alter your motivations and what you value most in life.” It should be pointed out that you want to have these disclosures before people sign up so they do not learn about it when they are “trapped” on a retreat in a remote location.
I think we already do well on this front regarding value-drift—we are consciously trying to mold ourselves into the person we wish to become.
One idea from a lay person perspective: Just be open with participants on the reason for a remote location for the retreat (or any other “manipulative” tactic).
In Buddhism there is especially for newcomers a practice of strengthening one’s dedication to Buddhist practice. It is usually taught with a clear message that “performing these practices will alter your motivations and what you value most in life.” It should be pointed out that you want to have these disclosures before people sign up so they do not learn about it when they are “trapped” on a retreat in a remote location.
I think we already do well on this front regarding value-drift—we are consciously trying to mold ourselves into the person we wish to become.