I first posted this back in May. Wow doesn't that seem a long time ago and nothing has really changed! Here we are back in Lockdown and taking a holiday might be the last thing on your mind. You may just want to get back to work and some sort of normality. However, if like me, you're lucky enough to be working then the idea of jetting off once lockdown and travel bans are lifted is very attractive!
When I first started my business 11 years ago I idealised that I would be able to take more time off than my previous employed job. I now know this to be unrealistic unless you make a concerted effort to make it happen.
So, you think you can't justify taking time away from your business because you’re self-employed? As we head towards the Christmas holidays here are five great reasons why you should definitely take a break:
1. Physical down time
You work hard to grow and maintain your business. Trying to be superhuman will certainly take its toll if you allow it to. Give your body a break by taking in some R&R.
2. Mental down time
Your days are filled with busy, sometimes even hectic, day-to-day activities related to your business. If you do not allow yourself to get away from it once in a while, your peace of mind and general well-being will most definitely suffer. Get out and play. Your mind will thank you!
3. Spend time with loved ones
Your family and friends see you working, working, working, sometimes rarely coming up for air. Both you and they will appreciate spending some quality time together over the festive period.
4. See the world (or your own garden)
The important thing is to do something you enjoy, whether it’s travelling or, if that’s not your cup of tea or you don’t have the budget for it, spend time at home. If you also work out of your home, as a lot of us have done this year, this could be challenging. The key is to stay out of your office during your holiday time. Try getting creative with this. Make your office “off limits” by closing the door and placing a sign on it. Do whatever it takes to keep your mind off working. How about a hobby or a day trip to the beach? Think of what you can do within your budget that is fun. Or do nothing at all!
5. You have a life
Although this one is a no-brainer, it surprises me how many small business owners don’t feel as if they deserve time off. There is too much to do, and not enough hours in the day to get it all done. Well, I’ve got news for you. It’s always going to feel that way! Only you have the power to allow yourself time off. Even if you prefer only to take a day here and a day there instead of a week-long (or longer) holiday each year, that’s a whole lot better than never taking time off. Trust me, you’ll feel better about yourself and your work if you take regular holiday time. You’ll be healthier, too!
Finally, unless you block the time out in your calendar it probably won't happen. So do it now and commit to it! Also consider hiring the services of a Virtual Assistant to support you in your business either on a regular basis or to provide holiday cover. There are many tasks you can delegate while you are away such as email management, call answering, client management etc in order to keep your business running smoothly.