When you own your own business it can be difficult to make time to take a holiday and to truly unwind and relax. Whether you own a small business and employ staff, or you are a sole trader, it is important to not run yourself into the ground. Taking a holiday will help you to come back to work reinvigorated, but it is so hard to pull away when you are in control of everything, and you have to be sure that financially you are able to take a short break away from the day-to-day running of the company and the bills that you have to pay.
How can you make sure that from time-to-time you are able to take a holiday and be able to switch off from your business completely?
Plan for Work Ahead – For sole traders especially, where it is possible to perform your tasks in advance, it can help you free up some time. If for instance, you have a contract to perform a certain number of tasks before the 25th of the month, you can try to complete the work by the 20th, giving yourself 5-days spare to have some downtime and maybe some time away on holiday. You can also work hard to ensure you have projects ready to go as soon as you return; doing the groundwork in advance of your break so there is one less thing to worry about
Understand Your Cashflow at All Times – Keeping a close eye on your finances, and in particular your cashflow is important to cover the business at times where there is a natural dip or lull in your business, and to ensure that you have enough cash saved up that allows you to take the odd break and vacation to recharge your batteries. When work is good and regular, always try to put some money aside for these times ahead. That way, should you be hit with an unexpected bill, or want to take a couple of days off, you have the cash there to allow you to resolve those issues.
Hire a Virtual Assistant – There is one way to ensure that your mail and messages are picked up on whilst you are away, and that you don’t miss out on any potential new business. Hiring a virtual assistant and you can rest assured that your business emails are checked, phones looked after and your scheduling for when you arrive back at work is all taken care of.
Keepoint offers a range of services related to virtual assistance for business owners and freelancers. If you are looking to safeguard your business practice whilst going away on a short holiday, we offer peace of mind that the administration side of the business is looked after. That way you can go away and completely switch off. We are here to help you unlock your business potential.
