5 Tips For a Stress-Free Vacation as a Small Business Owner
OUT OF OFFICE
I was recently able to get away for a little vacation in Mexico -check out my recap reel!
During my trip, I fully disconnected from work - no email, no social media, and no jumping on the computer for a quick task or check-in. I came home feeling recharged and refreshed.
This definitely hasn’t always been the case for my vacations and, years ago, I never would have thought it could be possible for me as a small business owner.
I’m sharing my top tips so that you too can take time away from your business without stressing out about what’s happening while you’re away.
1. Automate Everything You Can
One of the best things you can do for your business is to automate as many tasks as possible so you don’t have to manually do it all. As a photographer, this is especially helpful when it comes to inquiries about services. I don’t want anything to fall through the cracks and I don’t want to worry about not getting back to someone quickly enough (especially while I’m on vacation).
I use Dubsado for my CRM, which allows me to automate emails to anyone who fills out the contact form on my website. The email they receive gives them the option to schedule a meeting with me based on my availability, all without me having to do anything!
Setting up automated systems in your business gives you the freedom to know things are still working in the background when you aren’t at your computer… or even in the country.
2. Hire a Virtual Assistant
I actually hired my first virtual assistant for a two-week vacation to Japan in 2016 and I’ve had one ever since.
If you aren’t already working with a virtual assistant, consider this your sign! Having a trusted person helping behind the scenes frees up so much time and allows you to focus on the areas of your business that you love.
When I’m out of the office, I ask my VA to check and sort all emails that come through into three folders (Urgent, Needs Response, and Misc). When I’m back in the office, I know exactly what needs a response first and what can wait. It also gives me great peace of mind to know that someone is keeping an eye on my email and can alert me if something needs my immediate attention while I’m away.
3. Add Buffer Time
As soon as you have your travel dates set, block off a few days before and after your trip as buffer time. You will need time to pack/unpack and prepare to jump back into work, so don’t overcrowd your schedule. This is especially important if you are traveling internationally, as flights can be delayed, and recovering from jet lag can take a few days.
4. Fully Disconnect
This tip isn’t going to work for everyone, but whenever I am on vacation I do my best to disconnect. Most of my days are spent in my email inbox, on social media, and on other work-related tasks. I want my vacation to be free of those daily tasks and separate from my usual routine, so I make it a point to delete my business email and social media from my phone for the duration of my trip.
This also prevents me from “checking in” which usually leads me to get pulled into something work-related. (Remember, I also have my VA checking my email, so I know nothing terrible has happened and I can relax!).
5. Out-of-Office Responder
Lastly, don’t forget to set your Vacation Responder on your email so anyone who reaches out knows you are out of the office and when they can expect to hear back. This last step feels like the cherry on top of my vacation prep and the perfect way to move from work to vacation mode just before I leave town!
By implementing these steps in my business, I’ve been able to take worry-free, offline vacations. They have allowed me to be fully present while I experience new places and build memories with my family and friends. And (bonus!) by doing some of these things on a regular basis, I’ve also freed up time in my regular life while I’m home!
If you would like to chat about this topic, feel free to reach out! I’d love to hear from you!