As female entrepreneurs, we often pride ourselves on our ability to hustle and grind, putting in long hours and sacrificing sleep, sanity, and sometimes even social lives in the name of success. But here’s the thing: sometimes, taking a break from your business is the best thing you can do for your sanity, your creativity, and your bottom line.
I know, I know. You’re probably thinking, “But who will handle everything while I’m gone?” or “What if I miss out on a big opportunity?” Trust me, I’ve been there. But here’s the truth: your business will survive without you for a little while. And in fact, taking a break can actually help you be a better leader, a more inspired innovator, and a more fulfilled human being.
So why take a break? For one thing, it’s important to create headspace. When you’re constantly in go-go-go mode, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut or to lose sight of the bigger picture. However, by stepping back from your day-to-day responsibilities, you can gain a fresh perspective and see things in a new light. This can lead to new ideas, new strategies, and new opportunities you might not have considered otherwise.
Another benefit of taking a break is that it can re-inspire you. As entrepreneurs, we’re often driven by passion and purpose, but it’s easy to lose sight of that when we’re buried in emails and spreadsheets. By taking time away from your business, you can reconnect with the things that inspired you to start in the first place. Maybe it’s travel, art, nature, or spending time with loved ones. Whatever it is, allowing yourself to indulge in your passions can reignite your spark and help you come back to work with renewed energy.
When you’re caught up in the day-to-day grind, it can be hard to take a step back and evaluate whether you’re truly living in alignment with your values and goals. By taking a break, you can give yourself the time and space to reflect on what really matters to you, and whether your current business path is in line with those values. This can be a powerful tool for realigning your priorities and refocusing your efforts on what truly matters.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “But I can’t afford to take time off!” or “My business won’t survive without me!” Trust me, I hear you. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to take a month-long sabbatical to reap the benefits of a break. Even a long weekend, a day trip, or an hour-long yoga class can help you recharge and reconnect with yourself. The key is to give yourself permission to take a break, without guilt or shame.
I recently took a little trip to catch some winter sun. It’s the first time I have gone away without my husband or kids for a LONG time (if ever!).
Just 4 nights away, all-inclusive was the perfect tonic.
My mantra was Eat, Sleep, Read, Sunbathe Repeat!
I can’t tell you how refreshing it was to not have to consider the needs of other people (or small people!). We even booked into one of the lounges at the airport to get the full experience. So, when we were inevitably delayed (this time by snow!), we just went back for more food and drink.
So, to all my fellow female entrepreneurs out there: if you’re feeling stuck, burnt out, or uninspired, it might be time to take a break. Give yourself permission to step back from your responsibilities, create headspace, reinspire yourself, and evaluate whether you’re truly living in alignment with your values. Your business – and your sanity – will thank you for it.
If you are finding yourself overwhelmed in your business, you might be interested in one of my Power Hours, or my 6-month Business Boost.
https://www.hollynixon.com/work-with-me/
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