Leaders need an on and off switch
One of the challenges of running your own business is knowing when you're working and when you're not. Unlike a traditional job, there isn't always a clear start and finish. The business lives in your pocket. It's on your phone, in your inbox and often in your head.
I'll admit that over the past 12 months there have been a few holidays where I've dipped into work. Sometimes there was a decision that couldn't wait. Sometimes I was the only person who could solve a particular problem. I've made my peace with the occasional day of work while I'm away.
The reality is that I love travelling, I take a fair amount of time off throughout the year, and part of building a business is creating a life that works for you. Many of the founders I work with do the same. They'll spend part of the year abroad, working remotely and running successful businesses from wherever they happen to be. That's one of the great privileges of entrepreneurship.
Where it becomes a problem is when we're never fully on and never fully off. Every holiday becomes a blend of work and rest. We're checking emails while supposedly spending time with family. When we're technically away but never truly disconnected.
That's why I encourage founders to think about work like a light switch.
When is it on?
When is it off?
Be clear about the difference. The issue isn't necessarily working while you're away. The issue is not deciding. It's drifting between work mode and rest mode without any real boundaries.
Next week I'm heading to Sicily for two weeks. During the first week, I'll have a couple of dedicated workdays and the odd bit of checking in. During the second week, I'll be completely off.
No emails.
No calls.
No coaching.
No posting.
Just family, food, sunshine and rest.
The key is that I've decided that in advance.
If you've got time off planned this summer, give yourself permission to properly take it. And decide in advance when the switch is on and when it's off. Your business will survive. And you'll come back with far more energy than if you spend the whole holiday stuck somewhere in between.
