Working on Vacation Without Missing the Moments

I think there’s a lot to be said for not working on vacation at all. It’s your time to recharge, reset, and block out some of the chaos that comes with being an entrepreneur. But let’s be honest — when you own a business, it’s not always possible to completely unplug. That’s why it’s important to find a balance.

I’m currently writing this article while overlooking a golf course and lake, surrounded by beautiful calm and quiet (well, mostly quiet — my feral children are currently inside building LEGO and giving me five minutes of peace). Still, it feels like a very relaxed way of working.

This vacation has been immensely enjoyable and very much needed. It’s given me the opportunity to find my centre again, re-evaluate my goals and dreams, and think about how I want to pursue them moving forward. More importantly, it’s reminded me of what truly matters.

So, how am I balancing work while on vacation?

1. Set clear timelines for work

For this trip, that means waking up an hour before everyone else. I’ve always been a morning person, so getting up early isn’t new for me. During that quiet time, I answer emails, write, and do some planning. By getting a little work done early, I’m able to fully enjoy the rest of the day with my family.

2. Set clear boundaries

I have my out-of-office message set up so people don’t expect an immediate response. I let them know that while I’m monitoring things, anything that isn’t urgent can wait until I return. Thankfully, there have only been a few pressing issues to deal with. The rest has simply been planning and setting things up for success when I get back.

3. Do as much as possible before you leave

Before this trip, I worked some very long hours to get ahead on projects and responsibilities. By putting in the extra effort before leaving, I’ve been able to relax more while away instead of constantly stressing about everything waiting for me at home.

4. Remember the flexibility entrepreneurship can bring

Yes, sometimes you have to work a little while on vacation. But one of the benefits of entrepreneurship is the flexibility it can provide. You can take a vacation in May. You can attend your child’s Christmas concert in the middle of the day. It’s not always easy, and it’s certainly not always glamorous, but hopefully you reach a point where you find a balance that works for you.

Summer is coming, and with it comes the juggling act of kids, camps, sports, family activities, creating memories, and managing actual work responsibilities. Give yourself grace. Let some things slide. Vacation and rest are incredibly important for mental health.

And while I hope you’re able to completely disconnect when you’re away, sometimes that just isn’t realistic when you run a business. If you do have to work a little, do your best to still be fully present in the moments that matter most.

-Talia

Follow Talia on Instagram @talia.hreljac25