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.

Danielle Gerber

I always bring my laptop with me, just in case. Knowing that if something happens—if my team needs me, if there’s a crash on the website—I have control, gives me peace of mind. Most of the time, I never even open it, but knowing that I can respond quickly if something urgent comes up allows me to relax. Read more>>

Anna Cruz

Yes and no. This business does involve travel, and while the main purpose is work, I get to bring my family along. I try to take real vacations and visit nice places, but I often end up discovering unique or exclusive items my clients might want. As much as I’d like to fully switch off, I can’t help myself! Maybe one day, with an assistant, I’ll be able to travel in peace without mixing work and family time. But honestly, shopping for luxury items isn’t a bad job—especially with perks like coffee, champagne, and cookies in the stores. My advice to fellow entrepreneurs is to pick a business you’re passionate about. When you love what you do, the time, effort, and sacrifices feel worthwhile instead of wasted. Passion makes all the difference. Read more>>

Holly Corsano

I make a point to do at least one trip for two weeks a year (usually Europe) and I visit my family in Florida at least two times a year. I keep things going by updating my instagram story with daily adventures, even if it’s not hair and makeup related. People like to know what you’re up to, it keeps you in their mind when they watch your story. Read more>>

Jonene Lee

Life isn’t about working. Now read that again. Vacations are a necessity, not a want. Yes, I take vacations and I close the gallery. I’ve done it 4 times in the last 2 years for a week straight and didn’t receive one complaint. I think people understand that I’m the only one running this business and either I’m going to take my vacations and recharge or I’m going to crash and burn. The latter isn’t an option in my mind, so I’m taking my vacations and I recommend it to everyone. Read more>>

Jenn Friedline

Yes! Taking vacations and having time off is so important. It is vital to my mental and physical health to set healthy boundaries with my work, and being able to step away and focus on other things is part of that. Read more>>

Abby Dobson

As a Travel Advisor, I found this question intriguing. My role is to assist clients in selecting a great resort / destination that will fit their needs. While I do take vacations myself, my vacations look different from my clients. As a travel advisor, we have more opportunities to Travel, allowing us to test various destinations. However, when I am on Vacation, it is not solely for leisure. I take detailed notes about the resort, document everything through photos, and stay responsive to emergency client emails. Overall, it’s an incredible opportunity. Balancing a bit of work on vacation is manageable when your “office” comes with a sunny day and the breathtaking view of a beautiful blue ocean.  Read more>>