A Vacation is Having Nothing to Do
In the early years of owning my first company, it felt like I worked every day of every month of every year, and I probably did. My clients were my priority and when they needed me, I was there.
During those years, I intentionally watched other, more seasoned consultants, to see how they ran their businesses. I listened in on their conversations about consulting rates, and raised mine! I listened as they shared their networking strategies and adjusted mine to fit both who I am, what I offered, where my clients could fine me and vice versa. I learned about subcontracting other consultants by becoming a subcontractor. That became a cornerstone of my business growth and success. And I learned about how they ensured they remained fresh and rested. Many of them spoke of taking long periods of time off – like a month at a time! I was stunned, and then thought, why not?
My clients took time off. My peers took time off. My subcontractors took time off. Why shouldn’t I?
I evaluated my client load, noting the peak months when things were most hectic, and those where there was little going on. I found that the month of August was a good time to close shop. Some might be hesitant in sharing a planned closure with clients, but I felt that I earned that time away, given how hard my teams and I worked to deliver exemplary service to our clients. My decision was easy!
So, one by one, I started sharing my plan in May so that project timelines could be adjusted and deliverables met. To my surprise, my clients were happy for me! They congratulated me for taking time away from work and encouraged me to rest and enjoy my break.
I learned a few of important things during this time:
Pay attention to what others in your industry are doing. Learn from them – both the good things and the not so good things.
Be willing to put your health and well-being at the top of your list. Always. You’ll likely gain some respect for doing so. And, your clients will come to value you even more when you’re back. And, well, you’ll get some good rest!
Modeling for others who work with and for you is important. Many of my subcontractors started doing the same thing by taking long stretches of time off. Fortunately, we often chose the same month to close down! But either way, I wanted them to know how much I valued the work we did together and that I needed them to be at their best.
Bottom line, I believe in time off. Whether an extended vacation or a long weekend. Having nothing to do and all day to do it is a gift. You earned it.
Now go get that gift and let me know how you vacation below!