Finding Balance: The Challenge of Taking Time Off as a Small Business Owner

As another summer rolls around, I find myself confronting a familiar dilemma—taking a much-needed vacation. This isn’t a regular occurrence for me; while I often travel for work or conferences, it's usually with a laptop in tow, keeping me chained to a steady stream of work and client communications. However, as I've grown older and, hopefully, wiser, the importance of taking time off to recharge has become increasingly clear.

Historically, I've felt a twinge of envy seeing others take time off to relax with their families or simply enjoy a break. For me, being self-employed meant being constantly available, always at someone’s call—be it a client or a pressing project. It's a demanding presence that often sees no boundaries between personal and professional life. But I’m learning to change this, starting with a commitment to prioritize my well-being.

This Friday I’m taking my first substantial vacation in nine months. Yet, even as I prepare, there’s a familiar pang of guilt. Despite ensuring all client work is up to date, the emails keep coming, reinforcing the never-ending nature of my responsibilities. In the realm of small business, especially in a service-oriented field like mine, you don’t just work with one company; you juggle the needs of many, each with their own timelines and demands that often seem oblivious to the others.

I've tried to mitigate this chaos by implementing strict systems in my business for submitting editing notes or delivering media. These are necessary to keep the production pipeline flowing smoothly because delays on one end invariably affect all subsequent projects. Yet, the challenge persists. Clients often rush their requests at the last minute, compounding delays, or push for quick turnarounds right before their own vacations, while making me feel guilty for taking my own.

Despite these struggles, I'm encouraged by the clients who do respect and support my time off. They are the ones who appreciate my around-the-clock dedication—responding to their needs whether it's early morning, late at night, or over the weekend. Their understanding and respect make a world of difference, reinforcing the value of setting boundaries.

So, as I pack for this weekend's trip—albeit with a slight compromise of still bringing my laptop—I remind myself and perhaps you (thanks for reading all of this by the way) that taking time off isn't just a luxury; it's essential. It’s about setting boundaries that allow us to continue delivering high-quality work without burning out. It’s a difficult balance, especially for small business owners, but it’s crucial for sustaining both personal well-being and professional success.

Remember, prioritizing self-care doesn’t mean neglecting your business; it means nurturing your ability to serve your clients better and sustainably. Here’s to finding that balance, one step at a time.