Why Entrepreneurs Can Justify Taking a Vacation

If you’re like me (and other self-employed people I know), you find it hard to justify taking the time from your business to take a vacation. After all, it’s not like you get paid vacation time – when you’re not working, you’re not earning money or building your business. But looking at the bigger picture, in the long run you will be more motivated and productive if you take some time away from the business. If you aren’t able to put off your clients’ work for a whole week or two, even two or three days away can make a big difference. Here’s why:

1. If you’re working too hard and stressing about what you need to do the next day, you’re likely not getting enough sleep. Getting enough sleep is essential for well-being on so many levels. And feeling well and rested in crucial for optimal productivity and creativity. Many of your best ideas can come when your mind is at rest. Here’s an article on the harmful effects of sleep deprivation from Medicinenet.com.
2. Getting away into new surroundings, especially if you’re a work-at-home entrepreneur, can provide just the inspiration you need to come up with that next great idea.
3. In striking up conversations with new people in a new location, you never know whom you’ll meet who will be a potential client or colleague, or may be able to refer someone.
4. That old saying about all work and no play making you dull is true. Getting out and having some fun and relaxation that’s out of your ordinary routine can get you out of the rut you get in when working too much. If you get to feeling like your life is nothing but work and home (especially if your work is in your home!) you lose sight of the passion you had for starting your business in the first place.
5. If you haven’t been able to spend quality time with family or others in your life because you’re spending so much time on the business, those relationships can suffer. Loved ones in your life are the most important thing. The best part of having a successful business is sharing your good fortune with those who are important to you. Taking time off to reconnect with them is vital to your and their overall well-being.

So take some time to relax and have fun. It will do wonders for your outlook on life and your business!

If you’re the owner of your own business, what keeps you from taking a vacation? Or what ways have you found to get some vacation time in?