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Running your own business is very rewarding, but it can also be stressful and exhausting. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine taking time off, but it’s important for our mental health. You’ll come back with recharged batteries, renewed energy and perspective.

There is always the guilt of taking a moment for yourself away from work, so here are some things to consider when planning your next vacation:

Plan in advance

It is best to plan your vacation in advance, preferably in the off-season, as it will be less stressful and may make it easier for you to disconnect.

Planning ahead also gives you time to prepare everything you need to do before you leave and to tell the people who need to know. If there are things you can schedule in advance, such as social media posts, you will have time to get everything organized. You can also delegate tasks to your team and create a roadmap for them to follow while you are away.

Disconnect and turn off the phone

Set up autoresponders for your email, text messages, and social media while you’re on vacation. Configure these to let anyone who contacts you know that you are away and will be back on a specified day.

Set a work schedule (if necessary)

If you can’t completely disconnect from work set aside a fixed time to work during your vacation. It shouldn’t be a lot of time, one hour, maximum three hours, dedicated only to urgent tasks that need your response.

While you’re on vacation, don’t focus on heavy tasks or big projects; limit yourself to urgent matters.

Relax

Take some well-deserved time off, enjoy family and friends, and relax. You’ll come back more positive, productive, and refreshed.