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.

TRICIA MLADINEO

Yes, I find it is essential for my creative side to take vacations. I make sure to confirm all up coming appointments and send any important messages before I head out. However, there may be a day or 2 that I open up that lab top and check my emails while on vacation. Read more>>

Raya Al-Hashmi

I dedicate my winters to what some might not classify as a traditional ‘vacation,’ but rather an intentional period of exploration. Throughout this time, my partner Miles and I meticulously document our daily experiences, capturing video footage for various travel productions and snapping photos to share on social media. Read more>>

Marnellie Bishop

Yes, I take vacations! The biggest advice I would have for fellow entrepreneurs is to schedule your vacations first and then build your work around that. Planning around your vacations gives you insight on where to slow down in preparation for vacation and helps you manage your workload surrounding the vacation. You can plan to ease back into work when you return. Read more>>

DeMarcus Williams

Yes vacations are very necessary in the creative field. An overworked and stressed mind makes it very hard to focus. Usually is the reason for creative blocks. Take some time away and allow yourself to be inspired. I highly recommend! Read more>>

Abby Combs

Yes! That’s a big time yes! My husband and I travel approximately once a month for various reasons and it has greatly improved our outlook on life, helped us to balance work, life, kids, and relationships, and also has seemed to increase our business opportunities! Read more>>

Maggie Omick

I do take vacations! My husband and I are both small business owners and our biggest life motto is “work hard/play hard.” When I am in work mode, I WORK diligently, consistently, and passionately. Read more>>

Tidra Morris

Vacations and being a Business Owner is a must. As business owners we tend to become robots and resort to not having time for anything but our business. We make that our first priority, and block out what we need as individuals. A reset mind can always think clear and make better choices, then a mental that’s always cluttered and never take breaks. Read more>>

Ashley Brubaker

Absolutely! It’s crucial to take breaks. Personally, I prioritize and cherish my time off, whether it’s a staycation or a trip out of town. Over my decade of business ownership, I’ve come to realize the essential need for balance. Without it, I tend to feel restless and lose motivation, which inevitably reflects in my interactions with both my team and guests. Read more>>

Monet Wright

Yes, that is a no-brainer. As a creative, it is imperative to go on vacation. I have been making changes in my business model that allow me to be very flexible. Read more>>