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 tend to have difficulty stepping away from their businesses, worried that things will fall apart without them to oversee the day-to-day. However, overwork can lead to many problems that will wear you down and affect the quality of your work. 

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

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

How to Go on Vacation When You Own a Business

As mentioned, you can achieve time away if you establish a procedure beforehand. Here’s what 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 in the middle of 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, 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.

Resist the urge to give out your cell phone number or tell employees to contact you in an emergency. While those handling your tasks should be able to contact you if necessary, most issues that seem urgent can wait until you get back. Tell everyone that you will not be checking your email, and hold to 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