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.

Stephanie Tyson

I do! Granted it’s usually only one or a two a year, but I do take them. I think it’s absolutely necessary for anyone, regardless if they own a business or work for someone, to take at least one vacation a year. Burnout is so hard to avoid when you’re doing all aspects of a business, and it can get exhausting. Taking that vacation to do NOTHING is key to not hitting burnout so fast. Missing that one week will not kill a business. Pick a slow time in the year and take it. Come back refreshed. Read more>>

Jasmine Hamilton

Of course, I take vacations. I feel like as a business owner you have to step away to give yourself a peace of mind. Even when I take vacations someway I incorporate my business whether it’s a quick picture or short video advertising some of my products. You have to remember you have to provide yourself with some self care to refresh your mind three days or a week won’t hurt. Read more>>

Radomir Jordanovic

Working in Los Angeles is like a vacation. I’m always pretty close to the beaches or mountains, and I live next to several hiking trails. If I get tired of those, I can go to some new trails. Southern California has seemingly endless amazing hikes and fantastic views. Also, many times my work takes me to these places, so I typically end up having to go hiking or to the beach or somewhere like that for movies or music videos. It’s a great time! I don’t know if I have applicable advice for people who can’t step away from their businesses. You can’t step away, so do I tell you to step away? Try to take your business to a new location, perhaps, if it’s not too much of a financial burden. Read more>>

Renee Brooks

YES! Embracing a mix of both distant getaways and delightful staycations is like unlocking a whole new level of adventure and relaxation. It’s a way to sprinkle in those staycations to keep the excitement alive in business without straying too far. Imagine the thrill of discovering hidden gems in your own backyard, coupled with the refreshing bliss of exploring new horizons across the globe. My decision to blend these experiences is like curating a personalized recipe for ultimate rejuvenation. Read more>>

Ally Lei

Yes! I think it’s important to take vacations, no matter which stage of running a business you’re at. My personal mission is finding balance, which means working hard to play hard, and playing hard to work hard. My brand, augustnoa, operates on the same principles. augustnoa’s philosophy, “where ambition meets relaxation,” is all about achieving that balance through daily routines, comforts and adventures. Read more>>

SIDDHARTH AGRAWAL

Certainly! Taking breaks is crucial for rejuvenation and inspiration. As a cinematographer, I recognize the importance of periodic vacations to explore and gain fresh perspectives. While I do take vacation time, ensuring the continuity of my work involves meticulous planning and delegation. My advice to entrepreneurs, especially those in creative fields, is to prioritize self-care and recognize that stepping away temporarily can lead to renewed creativity and a deeper connection with one’s craft. During these breaks, the opportunity to absorb new experiences often translates into elevated artistic expression upon returning to work. Read more>>

Marcus Banks

I definitely take vacations. They are an investment in yourself so that you don’t become burned out and then need to take more time off later, under less auspicious circumstances, The vacation could simply be hiking nearby or something else that is manageable; it does not have to be lavish, although that is fine too! Read more>>

Carla Calderas

Yes! It is so important to have time off to recharge and be able to provide my best to my clients. A company policy at Calderas Counseling is that all staff can take up to 1 week off every quarter of the year. I believe that when we take time to rest and relax, our imaginations are free to explore ideas, dreams, and goals. As a business owner it is very important to have discipline, systems in place, and a good support system with staff that you can trust. As a business owner in the mental health field, taking vacations is necessary so that productivity and profitability continue to grow. If you want your business to perform better, take time off to recharge, refocus, and realign. Read more>>

Ryan Garrison

I absolutely take vacations or just time off. I pour so much into my business, from performing the actual services to promoting, running my social media, and maintaining my home life. Sometimes, I become exhausted, and it can take a toll on my mental health. Therefore, I take time off to recharge, reflect, and redirect. I may choose to stay local, fly to another city, or even go out of the country. I love traveling with my son because he gets to see the world and try new things. Read more>>

Taylor Shields-Lewis

Yes I take vacations. Vacations are actually mandatory for me. Just how I schedule meetings, consultations..etc. As a creative it is very easy for us to get stuck in a creative block where we aren’t inspired to create, inspired to grow in our craft. It’s something that I can’t really explain exactly but if you’re a creative then you know exactly what I mean. So, vacationing is apart of my self-care. It is mandatory for me to vacation and to explore and be inspired by different cities and states. My advice for entrepreneurs is to always make sure you are putting yourself and your mental health first. When you are healthier, happy and inspired….your business strives gracefully. Read more>>

Jason Kephart

One of the greatest parts of Sasquatch Overlanding is the fact that we are a travel and adventure-based business. This means we travel to explore and set up other trips for those who are looking for places unique to visit or camp. We also lead groups on some trips to different places around the United States to allow others the chance to not have to plan out a large adventure. The biggest perk of this is that we get to have vacations at the same time! Read more>>

Mayara Sousa

Like many entrepreneurs, I’m obsessed with my work. It often feels less like a job and more like a hobby that consumes all my time. This makes it challenging at times to disconnect and truly take time off. I’ve had to force myself to start taking at least one day per week where I don’t even open my laptop. The first one was the hardest, but it’s amazing what a difference it makes in reducing stress and improving my creativity. Read more>>