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.

Jess Rosenbluth

I rarely take extended vacations, but I prioritize personal half-days whenever my schedule allows, aiming for at least two per month. It’s my way of getting little resets throughout the year. I use the time to reflect, read, or watch something inspiring—something that keeps me learning and growing. It’s a mix of relaxation and productivity that helps me recharge. These short breaks give my brain a breather, so when I’m back to work, I feel more focused and refreshed. Read more>>

Isabel Alcantara

Well, it depends on how you define what a vacation really is. Many years ago, I thought of a vacation as a time where you truly disconnected from work and school. It usually consisted of going to the beach and happened once or twice a year. As a business owner, I have a different idea of what a vacation is. I still get to the beach and take trips from time to time, but I usually do check my email and work on some client matters while I am away. Some matters require immediate attention so it doesn’t matter if I am on a trip or not. Those matters usually involve a client that has received an inquiry from a federal or state regulator and the client has been given a deadline to respond. If I am on a “vacation” and I receive an email from a client with a regulatory deadline that is coming up very soon, then I will address the matter right away. However, if the deadline is two weeks or a month away, then I will tell the client that I have received their email and I intend on getting back to them in two days when I am back in the office. Read more>>

Richelle Mclaughlin

Yes I take vacations, in fact, I take time away from work every quarter.
As a High Performance Coach, I know how important it is to give your body, mind and soul time to relax, release and recharge.

Have you ever had a problem or challenge that you can not seem to find a solution to and then all of the sudden the solution comes to you while you are on a walk, or playing with your kids?

It can feel terrifying to take time off however, sometimes, stepping away is the best way to move forward. Clarity often comes when we give ourselves the space to rest and reflect. Read more>>

James Austin Kerr

Being an actor, you can take acting classes, you can read plays and theater books, you can work on accents and change your look but nothing will help you more than experiencing life. Leaving your comfort zone is so important and experiencing different places, cultures, and lifestyles will help mold you into more than just a creative, it will broaden your mindset. Whether it’s a vacation or trying a new hobby, these experiences will stay with you and improve your craft. Read more>>

Alaina Wodarek

One of my favorite aspects of being a content creator and influencer is the opportunity to collaborate with hotels and restaurants worldwide. I’ve partnered with businesses in destinations like Aruba, Miami, New York City, and Nashville. These collaborations are a win-win for everyone involved. I create engaging visuals highlighting must-visit places, providing businesses with high-quality marketing material while giving my followers a curated travel guide. Read more>>

Jill Hubbard

Absolutely I take vacations — I try to get in a few a year! As a one-woman show, when I take a vacation, my business goes into vacation mode too—no shows, no shipping, no making, just a full pause. And, for me, these full pauses have proven to be really great for my creativity. In the past, I used to bring a little kit of jewelry supplies along, thinking I’d create while sitting in the passenger seat or during downtime. But unless I had a big deadline looming, that kit often ended up just being extra baggage. I realized what I really needed was a true break—a chance to be present with my family and friends and soak in some inspiration from new places. Read more>>