Reader Question: “How do I actually take time off without worrying about my business? What if I lose momentum?”
Read Time: 3 Minutes
I love rest! I mean, an afternoon nap – where do I sign up?
My son once told me that if I ever became president, my first law would be mandatory naps in the middle of the day.
The kid is not wrong. 🤣
I might not force everyone to sleep, but at least take a break and relax. Rest is such a vital part of life and business.
But as entrepreneurs, how do we take time off without it affecting our business or our bottom line?
We plan. And then, we plan some more. And if we are feeling a little cheeky, we plan even more. Now, I don’t mean you have to spend days preparing for a few hours off.
Quite the contrary, we spend a few hours preparing for several days off! We prepare for not just one vacation but several. We schedule life first and never let our business have the chance to be affected.
Keep reading to find out how.
5 QUICK STEPS TO TAKE TIME OFF
Weekly High Five
1
Schedule Life First
Before you take on any new clients, sit down and look over the next three months. Do you have any planned vacations, family obligations, or visits? If so, block off that time BEFORE you book anyone and account for that time when estimating project timelines.
2
Socials In Advance
We have all heard this: “Batch work and schedule your social media outreach in advance.” But it’s essential when you are taking time away. It allows your business to stay top of mind while you rest in your favorite vacation spot. (*cough cough* by the waves – with a mojito in hand.)
3
Wrap Up Projects
Make a list of all of your current projects. Which projects can you complete before you take time off? Can you complete any assets that need feedback, so their review time aligns with your vacation? Complete as many projects as possible so that clients are not waiting for your return.
4
Give A Heads-Up
If taking your vacation during a project is inevitable, let clients know BEFORE they book their project with you. Discuss this vacation during your discussion on timelines and state it again in their contract. Then, gently remind them approximately 2-3 weeks before your holiday begins.
5
Set The Autoresponder
You know, I hate autoresponders. But, in this case, they are essential. The last thing you would want is a new client booking a discovery call only to not hear from you for two weeks. So, set your autoresponder and ensure they receive notice of your delayed response and that you appreciate their time and patience.
So where will you go first? Are you craving a quiet staycation or a big adventure? Need a day off for some self-care or a family event? Take it. Your business is your livelihood, but it’s only a fraction of your life. Don’t forget to live the rest of it!
