Take a Vacation

Taking a vacation is something business owners sometimes pride themselves on avoiding. Others relish the time away and take vacations as much as possible. It can be hard to step away, even for short periods, from the business that is responsible for your family’s security.

My friend and advisor, John Stevenson of Client Kudos, sent me some helpful tips about the importance of business owners taking vacations. As I write this while overlooking a beautiful lake in Minnesota, I understand the physical and mental benefits of getting away. My office manager and brokers aren’t calling me every minute to discuss issues. They can handle whatever comes their way. We business owners like to feel critical to the operation, but sometimes we can get in the way.

Aside from the personal benefits that come from vacation, a business owner also has to think about the message that is sent to a potential buyer of their business down the road. When meeting with a seller of a business, almost every buyer will ask the owner if they take vacations. Can they get away for a week or two? Do they take long weekend breaks? How do they do it and can the staff handle the business? Or, if I buy this business will I be a slave to it for years?

Take a vacation. You and your business will thank you!