Finding Balance: How to Work While on Vacation as a Small Business Owner
Owning and running your own business is a dream for many, but it comes with its own set of challenges—especially when it comes to taking time off. For those who are just starting out and haven't yet grown their team, the line between work and relaxation can blur easily. My partner and I run a marketing business, and we recently found ourselves in a situation many small business owners face: trying to balance vacation time with the responsibilities of running our company.
The Reality of Taking Time Off
In the early stages of running a business, taking time off can feel like a luxury you can’t afford. There's always something that needs to be done, and if you're not there to do it, it simply won't get done. This can be especially true when you don't have employees to delegate tasks to. However, it’s essential to find a way to rest and recharge, even if that means working during your vacation.
For example, when I recently took a vacation, I didn’t fully disconnect from work. Instead, I cut down my workload by about 70%, focusing only on the essential daily tasks that needed to be completed. By waking up a couple of hours earlier than the friends I was traveling with, I was able to get my work done before the day’s activities began. This approach allowed me to stay on top of my responsibilities without missing out on the vacation experience.
The Importance of Flexibility and Remote Work
One of the advantages of running a business in the digital age is the ability to work remotely. As long as you have your computer and a reliable internet connection, you can keep your business running from almost anywhere in the world. This flexibility is invaluable, especially when you want to take time off but still need to ensure that your business continues to operate smoothly.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. While it’s possible to work from a beach or a mountain cabin, it’s important not to let work dominate your vacation. The key is to prioritize tasks and focus on the most critical ones. By doing so, you can maintain momentum in your business without sacrificing the restorative benefits of a vacation. Unless you travel around the world to find amazing places to work, then by all means - go ahead!
Finding the Right Balance
For those in the early stages of business ownership, finding the right balance between work and vacation can be tricky. On the one hand, you need to keep your business moving forward; on the other, you deserve time to relax and recharge. The strategy I’ve found most effective is to scale back on work during vacation, handling only the essential tasks, and scheduling the rest for when I return.
This approach won’t work for everyone, and it’s not a long-term solution. As your business grows and you bring on employees, it becomes more feasible to take more substantial breaks from work. But in the beginning, when every decision feels critical and every client needs attention, it’s okay to blend work and vacation—as long as you do so thoughtfully.
Conclusion
Running your own business often means that true time off can be hard to come by, especially in the early days. However, it’s possible to take a break without completely letting go of your responsibilities. By managing your time wisely, prioritizing essential tasks, and leveraging the flexibility of remote work, you can enjoy a vacation without feeling like you’re neglecting your business. Remember, the key is balance—don’t let work consume your vacation, but don’t be afraid to stay engaged when necessary. In the end, this approach can help you maintain both your business and your well-being as you work towards long-term success.
