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As I write this BLOG I’m 3 sleeps away from jetting out on a holiday to Fiji (queue the beat of Fijian drums with the distant sound of waves gently lapping at the shore.. …aaaahhhhhh).  Anyway, I thought it was a great opportunity to talk about tips for taking a holiday when you are a small business owner or sole trader.

As a personal trainer myself, I know holidays are a catch 22.  You worry about spending money on holidays, you worry about not making money because your on holidays and then what if the world falls apart while you’re not there to hold it all together?!

Relax.  Many people have done it before and survived!  So here are a few pointers that will help make it a smooth journey for you.

1. Health Check

First up, I bet you often tell your clients about the importance of work life balance right?  Well, guess what, same applies to you.  So when you are wondering if you can or can’t afford to take a break, remind yourself that you will in fact be happier, healthier and more productive when you return with a clear mind and fresh outlook.

2. Boy Scout Rules – Be prepared

Preparing yourself ahead of time is key.  Its essential to notify your clients and suppliers that you are taking a holiday well in advance.  Make sure you allow your clients an opportunity to book in an extra session before you go if they choose, or better still, offer to write them a mini program (for a fee) to do while you are away.

3. Be sensible

Think about when you are taking your holiday.  If your peak seasons are summer and spring, then of course it would make sense to plan your holiday for winter or autumn.  Its also a good idea to avoid school holidays and public holidays to avoid increased fees on flights and accommodation.

4. Prepare your digital world

• Out of Office notification on your email
• Change the message on your voicemail
• Make sure you set up your website and social media for automatic updates while your away (your family, friends and clients can know your away, but to the rest of the world, you are still working!)

5.  Give yourself permission to breathe

Unless you absolutely have to, then don’t check emails or social media while you are away.  Chances are if you do, you will be inclined to respond to an email, comment on a post or RT a tweet!  Don’t do it!

Put yourself on a technology ban.  You will be amazed how many hours there are in a day when your not spending time with your head buried in yet another “time-saving” app!

So what are you waiting for?  Think about when you want to take a break, think about where you want to go, write it all down or put it on your vision board, then go out and do it.  The world wont fall apart while your gone, and I promise you will be a better business owner after having a self imposed time-out.