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.

Kim Miller

We feel we need to step away from our business from time to time to enjoy life and each other. We’re able to step back, relax and take a breath from our daily routine. We don’t need to spend a lot of money or go extravagant places. Taking time to be together as a married couple without phones, the business and paperwork is a way to keep our marriage strong and a positive working relationship. Read more>>

Keri Burns

Do I take vacations? YES! However, as a business owner a “vacation” often looks different for me than it used to. I travel as often as I can, whether with family or friends. Most of the time I schedule some time for work during my travels. However, when I feel that I have the opportunity to unplug, I prepare my staff for my absence and allow my leadership team to take over. Read more>>

Marisa Hurtado

Yes, I do. Vacations are crucial as they force me to stay away from my laptop and the urge to check my email. As a writer a short vacation helps to clear my mind, “if I can’t clear my mind, the story will never end.” As an accountant vacations, are extremely important as they help me evaluate what’s working and what’s not. Read more>>

Danielle Gustafson

I travel. A lot. I shy away from the word “vacation” because it elicits visions of internet-less destinations, cruise ships and drinks with little pink umbrellas. Travel is a lifestyle. It’s a choice. Vacation, to me, is a short break from reality (and that’s good too!). Read more>>

Madeline Ashby

I absolutely take vacations! It’s been an extremely busy year for Maddie Cakes Bakery 2. There has been a consistent number of orders every month all year long. In addition to my business, I have school, after school activities and also want to spend time with my friends as well. Read more>>

Elaine Lou Cartas

Remember we made our businesses for more freedom in time. But so often we create our businesses like our full time jobs where we don’t have time. This is why it is important to go on vacation — to remind ourselves why we became business owners in the first place. Read more>>

Seth Lejeune

I used to think taking a vacation would be a “death pill” to my business. I mean, how could someone possibly replace me while I was gone. Earlier in my career I went to Europe with family and had very little access to internet or phone while I was away from my Airbnb’s internet. Read more>>