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.

D.l. Howard

Yes, I love vacations. I call them my little mental health breaks. With writing and being an indie author, it’s mainly a one-person job with the writing part, but it can still get stressful. You have deadlines, goals, marketing, and doing your best to have a social media presence. Plus, I work a full-time job on top of all this. It’s a lot of hard work. At some point, yes, you’re going to need that vacation. So, do it! Read more>>

Ashley Akins

I definitely believe in taking vacations. No matter if it’s a solo trip, with friends, or a getaway in your city, take time to step away from work. Sometimes we don’t realize how much a break is needed until we get one. Read more>>

Caroll Lee

I absolutely take vacations, and I highly recommend that all small business owners do the same! As owners, we carry a significant weight on our shoulders. I’ve often felt the responsibility for the well-being of my clients and employees, while also trying not to neglect my personal responsibilities and relationships with friends and loved ones. Stepping away from the day-to-day realities of running a business is essential for long-term success. Read more>>

Toni Haas

I love vacation!!! I think it’s important to take time to recharge and decrease burnout from the day to day life. I love making new memories with loved ones and adventures in general. It’s a time for: Improve well-being Trying something new Strengthen relationships Leisure time Relaxing Spending time with loved ones Reading Creating Art Naps Walks Nature Writing I was inspired by my grandchildren while on vacation in New Zealand and wrote and illustrated a book called, Goodnight Surf City!!! I wrote and illustrated the book to inspire others to get outside, go on adventurers, enjoy what is around you with your family, and make memories. “Oh, the places you’ll go.” – Dr. Seuss Read more>>

Sarah Steffen

Yes! I take multiple vacations per year. They are essential for my mental health – I would not be able to run my business in a healthy way without taking time away to recharge. I celebrate these vacations and share them with my audience, both before and after my time off. This humanizes my business and shows that I am prioritizing my wellbeing, which hopefully also communicates that I prioritize my business’s wellbeing. My annual reset is a trip to the Boundary Waters before Labor Day. I take a full week off and have no access to internet or cell service during this time. I notify my clients and partners in advance over email, social media, and in conversation. I also share my photos and reflections from the trip when I return. Read more>>

Nathalie Iglesias

I definitely take vacations, I think is crucial to be able to step away from things and clear your mind. In an industry where we have to be on top of things 24/7 and take care of our artist is also important to take care of ourselves and our mental health. When you’re able to take time off and disconnect, you can always come back with a clear mind and focus more on your goals and what you want to accomplish. Read more>>

Rain Zheng

I actually never do even though I do work in a corporate setting where everyone encourages to. I really do love what I do, I am trilled by the fresh new challenges I had to overcome projects to projects, on top of the fresh new talents I get to meet and bond with. The old friends who are the talented genuis that I had the prvillages to work with again and again makes me I am a bit of a workaholic but I don’t intent to stop. Read more>>