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.

Alvina Pruitt

I love to take vacations. I find that unplugging is necessary to avoid burnout. I will turn on the out-of-office emails when needed. I have to take care of me to be a better friend, sister, partner, aunt, and so much more. If I am stressed and frazzled all the time, that reflects onto my work, the way I handle situations, the way I respond to people, and I never want to leave a bad taste in someone’s mouth concerning my professionalism when I can help it. My advice is to start small. Read more>>

Rafal Cwiok

I do take vacations, but not without a small helping of guilt. And that’s only because it’s easy to feel like you’re losing out on income and job opportunities when you take time away from work. Read more>>

Lisa Maydwell

Friends and family often joke that I’m always traveling. Which is true. For me, traveling is essential to being a great writer and creative. When you step away from the comforts of home you are educated on how others live. You are exposed to different cultures, life experiences, and best of all different food choices. Read more>>

Tori Brunson

Taking vacations are amazing. My opinion is at least 2 trips should be taken a year: 1 international and 1 domestic trip. Vacations let you explore the world. It lets you escape the normal life for a few days for relaxation. As a business owner I keep things going by continuous learning, adaptability, networking and partnerships, setting clear goals and objectives. Read more>>

Lindsay Kana

Yes, I take vacations, and I believe time away is actually crucial for business improvement! I often hear business owners say they can’t afford to take even one day off, but I think this is something that was taught when we were growing up…business first, work day and night, etc. But this leads to burnout for business owners, which leads to unhappy employees, and family. Read more>>

Talita Guerrero

I’m a strong advocate for taking vacations, as they are one of my passions, and I make it a point to enjoy them frequently. My 12-year-old daughter has had the incredible opportunity to visit nearly 30 countries with me. I firmly believe in the value of taking breaks to rejuvenate both the mind and body, as it plays a pivotal role in enhancing productivity. Read more>>

Nechole Culp

As a business owner, I feel stepping away and taking a break is a must. I make an effort to schedule quarterly get aways. In the past I have recruited a friend, contract worker, employee or family member and trained them to run the office and business while I am away. I also have an amazing staff that assist in any areas of need. Rest, self-care and rejuvenation is important as a business owner. Read more>>

Laura Bashore

The holiday season is fast approaching, and we have an extra dose of anxiety as entrepreneurs. Should I take a holiday? The answer is – YES! Read more>>

Ejimofor Oruche

Yes, I take vacations. It can be hard to do especially in this particular season when finances are a bit unstable for me. However, I can do my best if I don’t take a rest (didn’t mean to rhyme lol). Also, I don’t want to wait till I get to whatever future point to enjoy time with my family. Read more>>

Deb Arnold

Work/life balance is one of the most important things to achieve; not only is it essential for my own mental health, but it is also essential for the health of a business, especially in a business such as mine, where I pride myself on my ability to build long-lasting relationships with my clients. Read more>>

KARIS Loewen

Yes, I absolutely take vacations and believe in them for many reasons! My goal is to take at least 12 weeks of vacation a year, not including weekend/long weekend getaways. Read more>>