Running a business is demanding—add kids and summer holidays into the mix, and the thought of taking a break can feel more stressful than staying home, but with the right preparation and mindset, it is possible to unplug, recharge, and enjoy quality time with your family without your business falling apart.
Here’s how to take a well-deserved break this summer, while minimising stress and maximising family time.
Before You Travel: Plan Like a CEO
- Communicate Early and Clearly
Let clients, staff, and partners know your travel dates well in advance. Set clear expectations for response times and availability during your time away. A well-crafted out-of-office message and advance communication can prevent most urgent issues from ever reaching your inbox. - Delegate and Empower
If you have a team, now is the time to delegate. Assign clear responsibilities and ensure everyone has the tools and information they need to manage without you. If you’re a solo entrepreneur, automate what you can—use scheduling tools for content, emails, and reminders. - Clear the Decks
Avoid heading off with lingering to-dos. In the week leading up to your break, prioritise essential tasks and wrap up as much as possible. A clean slate means fewer distractions while you’re trying to enjoy time with your family. - Prepare a ‘What If’ Plan
Create a brief contingency plan for worst-case scenarios. Include key contacts, instructions for emergencies, and login access if absolutely necessary. Give it to your second-in-command—or someone you trust—and then let go.
During the Holiday: Be Present, Not Just There
- Set a Holiday Rhythm
You may not be able to disconnect completely, but you can create boundaries. Consider allocating a short daily time slot (e.g. 30 minutes early morning) to check emails or messages—then put the phone away. Let your family know when you’re “on” and “off” so expectations are clear. - Embrace Digital Detox Moments
Use the opportunity to model healthy tech habits. Plan screen-free time for both you and the kids—like beach walks, board games, or evening ice cream outings. These are the moments that become memories. - Let Go of Guilt
It’s easy to feel guilty for stepping away from your business or checking in while on holiday. Accept that perfection isn’t the goal—presence is. Enjoy the messiness of family time. It goes fast.
When You Return: Reboot Smartly
- Schedule a Soft Landing
Don’t jump straight from airport to inbox. Give yourself a buffer day (or two) between returning and going back to work. Use it to unpack, reset, and catch up gradually without overwhelm. - Debrief and Reassess
Check in with your team or review your systems: What worked while you were away? What bottlenecks emerged? Use this insight to make your business more self-sustaining in the future. - Reconnect, Refocus, and Rebalance
After reconnecting with work, carve out time to reflect on your priorities. Did your holiday offer new perspective? Are there adjustments you can make to your schedule, delegation, or workflow that protect family time all year round—not just in summer?
Final Thoughts
Taking a summer break with your kids doesn’t mean hitting pause on your business success—it means planning smarter so you can prioritise what matters most.
Your business will be stronger for it and your family will thank you.
After all, what’s the point of building your own business if you can’t design the life you want to live?
