Picture this: You’re lying on a sun-soaked beach with nothing on your mind but the sound of the ocean waves: no meetings, no texts, no emails. Your phone is set to “Do Not Disturb” because you’ve finally taken time off from your business to go on that vacation you’ve been dreaming of taking. 

You’re more than ready for some time away, but is your business ready for you to take a vacation?

As a seasoned business owner, you’ve poured your heart and soul into building a thriving company. But here’s the truth: your business shouldn’t depend on your constant presence. In fact, stepping away from your business is not only possible; it’s essential to your company’s future and your personal fulfillment.

Embracing the Challenge

In different industries, taking time off can be a real challenge. In Real Estate, for example, it’s considered a badge of honor and success to work 24/7/365. 

There are other fields where planning a vacation, or even just a weekend off, is incredibly stressful due to real-life and death emergencies. For instance, when crises arise in Home Care companies, they need to be immediately and effectively addressed.

And then there’s the garden variety CEO who just can’t let go of work for even 24 hours because they’ve convinced themselves everything is an urgent priority that demands their personal time and attention.

I’ve worked with business owners in all these positions, and every single one now takes weekends off and enjoys at least two vacations a year, unplugging for anywhere between seven days to six weeks at a time.

The Business-Boosting Benefits of Time Off

When you commit to taking time off, your business flourishes. It’s not just about revenue; it’s about unlocking a multitude of benefits that propel your company forward. Think enhanced creativity, innovative problem-solving, effective leadership, team-building, and delegation mastery. By stepping away, you empower your team to own their strengths and contributions and create space for yourself to rest, recharge, and refresh your perspective.

Vacation Prep and Prerequisites

When you become my client, vacations and downtime are non-negotiable. 

Of course, taking a vacation isn’t just about booking flights and hotels; it’s about strategic planning and preparation. 

⇒ What needs to be covered to ensure a seamless transition during your absence?

⇒ What contingency strategies should be in place to handle unexpected situations?

⇒ Who will be responsible for specific tasks and decision-making?

It takes trust in your team, in yourself, and in your planning.

And it takes a willingness to face your own internal roadblocks so you can step back, let go, and actually enjoy yourself.

Unleashing Your Personal Potential

Many long-term business owners have become so consumed by work that they’ve forgotten how to enjoy having free time. Even if they restructure their time on paper, they feel left at loose ends and revert to their comfort zone by jumping back into work.

To break the cycle of hustle and grind, you need to rediscover how to have fun outside of your business.

Ask yourself:

⇒ What activities bring you joy or help you unwind?

⇒ Who do you want to spend your precious time with?

⇒ What do you need to recharge and refuel?

Consciously turn off the computer, walk away from your phone, and redirect your attention.

Otherwise, the comfortable routine of working all the time will suck you in.

And that’s terrible news for business growth.

And your brain.

And your development as a human being.

How I Make Month-Long Vacations Happen

As for me, I’m getting ready for our annual summer road trip. The hubby and I will pack our lives and our pups into Vanya (our beloved Sprinter van) for five weeks on the road.

To ensure that I don’t leave my clients without support that entire time, we stay within range of wifi at least two days a week for the first few weeks we’re on the road. We find a park or a friend’s driveway, and I make my client calls part of our journey.

The rest of the time, I’m completely off to explore the wilds of the mountains and coast and wherever else my husband takes me. He’s the planner. I’m here for the exploring, shenanigans, and good company. Together we delight in life, luxuriating in the spaciousness and freedom we’re committed to creating for ourselves.

Are you longing for some spaciousness for yourself?

As I gear up for our road trip, I invite you to envision a future where taking time off is a non-negotiable part of your success story.

If you’re dreaming of some downtime – and you’re willing to do the practical and personal work so that you and your business can thrive – send me an email at dana@danacorey.com.

Tell me about your dream vacation and what needs to be covered so you can take one.

Let’s find out if I’m the right coach to help you make it happen.

If we both think we’d make a fantastic team, we can get started on our first steps before I hit the road. Together, we’ll pave the way for your next adventure.