Vacations and Business Can Co-Exist — Here’s How- Valutrics
Entrepreneurs typically lead fast-paced lives — constantly on the go, juggling all kinds of stresses, responsibilities, and pressures. It’s not always a popular opinion, but taking a vacation or break is vital to avoid burnout, especially for the most ambitious among us.
There are lots of ways to recharge, even though most of us think of lazing on the beach when we hear the word “vacation.” One colleague revolutionizing the concept of recharging for busy entrepreneurs is Tammi Leader Fuller, who I recently interviewed on my podcast, All Access Radio.
Tami is the creator of Campowerment, a long weekend camping trip designed especially for executive women. Many people have fond memories of summer camp as a kid, and Campowerment provides a similar experience for professional women.
When I first heard about Campowerment, the idea fascinated me, so I signed up to experience it firsthand. Along with about 100 other women, I spent four action-packed days full of networking, personal growth, campfire singing, wine socials, group contests, yoga, music, dancing, and outdoor experiences. It was nothing short of transformational.
Sounds great, right? But I’m sure even as many of you are itching to sign up, you’re also probably wondering how you’d manage to keep business running while you’re away — whether for two business days or for two weeks (or more). The first step before embarking on any kind of vacation or retreat is to prepare your team and business for your absence. And keep in mind that even while you’re gone, there’s no such thing as wasted time.
A few tweaks to your mindset will provide a lot of value to any time away from the office.
Keep your antennae up. When you’re away from your office for any reason, there are still plenty of potential business opportunities all around you. You’d be surprised what you can capitalize on when you stay aware and keep your antennae up.
Naturally, at any professional retreat, camp, or conference, you will run into like-minded, interesting people. They can become new friends, collaborators, referral sources, or even clients. Think of it like the golf course, that stereotypical out-of-office hot spot for conducting business. Have fun, relax, socialize — and discuss business all at the same time.
Negotiate between work and play. I get it. When you’re retreating, you may not want to toggle between work brain and play brain. But because we live in an “always on” world, it’s easy to squeeze in a call or catch up on emails without taking too much time. Handling a little business during your time away will stave off the pressure of returning to hundreds of emails and unanswered calls – and reduce pressure on you from your boss, colleagues, and clients.
Fitting in a little work during vacation is a choice and a mindset. You’re no longer chained to your desk or normal routine, and you don’t have to fully unplug. Even taking an hour a day for business while you’re on break can make a huge difference. You’ll be able to get away more frequently and minimize your stress while doing so. In my experience, it’s a win-win.
Embrace opportunity. As an entrepreneur, you’re well aware that there’s new business potential everywhere. Travel can be a great source if you know where to look. Regardless of my reason for traveling, I often strike up a conversation with the person next to me on a flight. My intention isn’t to land business, but besides meeting interesting people, I have also scored new clients, business referrals, and connections that way.
Whether it’s Campowerment or another retreat — or just a fun vacation of your own design — it’s vital for entrepreneurs to take the time to recharge and relax. But doing so doesn’t mean you have to put business on hold. With the right preparation and mindset, you can take time away and still take care of business.