The Importance of Taking Time Away

During this week of the 4th of July, I've been reflecting on my relationship with time off. It’s an important topic, especially for those of us running businesses.

What's your relationship with time off? There are a few common approaches that you might find familiar:

The Non-Stop Worker

Some people don't take time off at all. They see the absence of others as an opportunity to catch up on work. They feel grateful for the quiet time that allows them to get ahead. While this might seem productive, it can be detrimental in the long run.

The Halfway Vacationer

Others manage to take time off but stay connected. They check emails, respond to texts, and remain available to their teams. Physically, they might be away, but mentally, they never truly disconnect. This approach prevents them from fully recharging.

The True Escapist

Then there are those who genuinely get away. I recently worked with a client who went to Europe for two weeks with her family. She checked in with work only once. This true disconnection allowed her to reset and return refreshed.

The Necessity of Stepping Away

Taking time off is crucial for your brain and overall well-being. It helps you break out of the constant stress response, where you're always in crisis mode. When you genuinely relax and reset, your thoughts shift. You see possibilities that you wouldn't normally notice.

Not A Productivity Hack

I'm not suggesting you use rest as a tool to become more productive or creative. It doesn't work that way. However, when you truly step back, unexpected insights emerge. These moments can change how you see the world, yourself, potential investors, clients, or employees.

Embrace the Opportunity

This week might not be the perfect time for everyone to step away due to the holiday's timing. But summer offers plenty of opportunities to get away. The more you embrace these moments, the more relaxed, refreshed, and insightful you'll be when you return to your business.

Going Deeper

Does this resonate with you? Let's continue this conversation. Reach out and let's explore how you can find the balance between work and truly recharging.

And if you’re a founder who is within three years of an exit, let me know. We have a special event coming up September 17 that you will want to be part of.

#founder #founders #exit