As a small business owner, you understand the constant pressure to work “in” your business most days, if not every day. You likely work long hours, have endless to-do lists, and the weight of your company’s success can feel heavy. But what if taking time off is exactly what you need to support your well-being AND your company’s success and longevity?
The Benefits of Stepping Back
Stepping away this summer to refresh can have significant benefits for both you and your business. The constant pressure of running a business takes a toll. The stress of business ownership, along with overworking, can lead to irritability, resentment, burnout, and increased errors.
By committing to take time off, you allow yourself to rest and recharge mentally and physically. This rejuvenation translates to improved focus, renewed energy, and a more positive outlook. This sets the stage for improved productivity and mental clarity upon your return.
It’s important to also encourage and support your team in being able to take time off.
Looking at Summer Time Off as an Investment in Your Business
Creativity: Think of a time when you felt really creative or were simply in your flow and producing some of your best work. Chances are you were well-rested, and with a refreshed mind, you felt creative and innovative. When you’re constantly bogged down in the day-to-day work, it’s easy and common to get stuck in a rut. Vacation can change that.
Innovative Solutions: Time away can provide you with the space and inspiration that will spark new ideas and unique approaches to challenges you have been experiencing within your business. This renewed perspective can lead to innovative solutions and strategies to propel your business forward in both the short and long term.
Longevity: Think about the longevity of your business. Working long hours without pause can, likely will in time, negatively impact your physical and/or mental well-being. Burning out will only hinder your ability to lead and manage effectively in the long run. When you choose to prioritize time off, you are committing to your well-being, which can have a positive effect on your overall outlook and commitment to your business.
5 Steps to Support Your Time Off this Summer
While the idea of stepping away might seem daunting, here are 5 tangible steps you can take to make it a reality:
- Schedule it: Treat your vacation time like any other important business meeting or conference. Put it on your calendar and commit to it. Let others know you will be off and set your email and voicemail to notify individuals who to reach out to in your absence.
- Delegate and empower: Identify key tasks you can delegate to trusted employees or contractors. Provide clear instructions and empower them to make decisions in your absence.
- Set clear boundaries: Establish a system for handling urgent matters while you’re away and communicate your availability to clients and staff. Make sure your team knows what situations constitute an ‘exception’ for contacting you (these should be minimal), so you can enjoy your time off with peace of mind.
- Streamline operations: A strategic tune-up can help identify areas for optimization within your business. By reviewing your operations, you can identify inefficiencies and implement changes while you are on vacation. Be sure to include your team members in this process so they are included and empowered and so you do not miss important details.
- Prepare your business: Before you depart, tie up loose ends, finalize any pressing tasks, and set your team up for success. And remember, if a project is not urgent, you can schedule it for a later date.
By taking actionable steps to plan for your time off, you can minimize stress and worry, allowing yourself to truly disconnect and enjoy the break you deserve. Returning as a refreshed and rejuvenated you is the best asset your business has. So, go ahead and schedule that vacation – your business will thank you for it!
About the author: Autumn Edmiston is the CEO and owner of the Edmiston Group. The Edmiston Group is a multifaceted Pittsburgh-based marketing consulting firm providing senior-level marketing management services to businesses and non-profit organizations on a short or long-term basis. Core areas of service are business development strategies, website creation and management, social media management, marketing, strategic planning, and public relations. The Edmiston Group has consistently delivered and implemented real-world, proven business marketing ideas and strategies for business.