As a business owner it’s easy to feel like your work is never done – because no matter how much you do, there is always more that could theoretically be done. Many business owners we’ve spoken with also feel that they have a responsibility to be available to their team and that if they step away they are putting an undue burden on their team. So, we wanted to hear from a broad range of business owners on whether they take vacations and we’ve shared some of their responses below.
Julie Hildebrand
One of the main reasons I switched from a full-time teaching position to owning my own business was so that I could have the flexibility to travel with my family. My husband’s job requires he travel for several weeks at a time, so I wanted to be able to go with him and bring along our daughter to experience the world! Read more>>
Raigan Cummings
Absolutely, I believe taking vacations is essential for maintaining a healthy work-life balance! As a business owner, I do prioritize vacations, but it does require meticulous planning. I make sure to keep my clients informed when I plan for time away so they too can plan accordingly and secondly I have to ensure reliable systems in place before I leave so that my clients can continue to book with me even when I am out of office. Read more>>
Marianne Hall
Absolutely! I find immense joy in exploring new places and immersing myself in diverse cultures. It goes beyond the traditional notion of lounging on a beach or hitting the slopes – for me, vacations are about enriching experiences. In 2022, I had the incredible opportunity to visit Switzerland for a month, exploring the country with a friend. The cultural immersion and scenic beauty were unparalleled. Read more>>
Shonda Griffin
Yes, I absolutely take vacations. I have too. Being self employed helps me to be able to schedule my client time as freely as I need to. Vacations are mandatory so I can give my body a rest from taking care of others. I have to schedule time to rest and take a break from being “The Boss!” I keep this going by taking vacation breaks every 2-3 months. Read more>>
Alexis Noble
No, I haven’t been on a real vacation yet. As a business owner, I stay ahead. Since I haven’t sat down to vacay, I would advise them to do what they feel. If you are needing rest, rest! Read more>>
Haomin (Jazzz) Shi
As a freelancer, there is no concept of workdays and weekends. Balancing the roles of an artist, graphic designer, and art educator can be challenging, but it also allows for a diverse and dynamic creative life. However, the absence of a structured schedule and guaranteed income can create uncertainties, leading to moments of stress and sleepless nights especially in a fast-pace city like Shanghai. Read more>>
Aaron Vaughn
As a successful hair colorist and salon owner, I find immense fulfillment in my work both behind the chair and behind the desk. However, even the most dedicated entrepreneurs recognize the importance of stepping away from their jobs and taking time to recharge. It is during these moments of escape that we can find the inspiration needed to achieve our most significant milestones in our professional careers. Read more>>
Christina Landini
Minus my family, traveling is my second love! I absolutely love traveling and exploring the world. It’s very rare that I don’t have a vacation on my calendar- even if it’s a simple road trip. I think it’s important for my kids to experience the world while they are young, and I hope one day they have the same passion. When we travel, I also always take our own family photos or I hire another photographer. :) Read more>>
Michelle Y Talbert
I opened my coworking space on January 12, 2020. The first 2 years of my business were all about survival. I made a couple of hires and their life circumstances changed so I found myself a solopreneur with no permanent team. However, at the top of 2023 I made a promise to myself that I was moving from survival to “thrival” and that I would be intentional about time with family–who live in other states–and travel. Read more>>