Preparing for the Small Business Owner’s Vacation

It surprises me how rarely business owners take a vacation. I see it in my clients: they’re reluctant to take time away from the business, and if they do, it’s for a long weekend at most. Yet, vacation time is essential for avoiding burnout, and although a small business owner’s vacation is no minor thing, you can do it.

Preparing for a small business owner’s vacation requires organization, process-building, and trust that the team will take care of things while you’re gone. Usually, business owners are pleasantly surprised when they return to see that everything runs smoothly in their absence.

Why Is Taking Time Off Important?

Small business owners need help stepping away from their businesses. They worry that things will fall apart without them to oversee the day-to-day. However, being overworked can lead to many problems, including weariness and decreased quality of work. 

Taking time off to relax can lower stress levels, which is good for physical and mental health. In addition, after returning from a vacation, most workers experience increased productivity, clearer thoughts, improved focus, and a better work-life balance. 

Studies have shown that 84% of executives have canceled vacations to work. That’s a troubling statistic. However, taking a stress-free small business owner’s break is vital for long-term health and business. 

How to Go on Vacation When You Own a Business

You can enjoy time away if you set up a procedure beforehand. Here’s what you need to know to prepare for a small business owner’s vacation. 

The first thing to do is to create a plan. For example, taking a vacation during a busy season is not a good idea, but most businesses have slower periods that would be great times to step away. If you time your vacation right, you can minimize your concerns. 

Next, could you delegate your tasks to people you trust? Let your employees know when you’ll be gone and who they should contact. It’s helpful to send this information in an email with the contact information of the people involved so your employees have something to reference.

Could you resist the urge to give out your cell phone number or tell employees how to contact you in an emergency? While those handling your tasks should be able to contact you if necessary, most urgent issues can wait until you get back. Tell everyone you will not check your email, and keep that promise. 

Finally, remember that business is cyclical. If you take care of your team year-round, they will take care of the customer, and the customer will take care of you. Ensuring consistent customer service and treating your employees well is the best way to guarantee that your business will continue to thrive, with or without you present. 

Going on vacation when you own a business requires some strategy and forethought. A business coach can help. Click on my contact form for a complimentary coaching session to work on preparing for your next small business owner’s vacation.

Coach Dave