You might think that working yourself gives you more freedom. However, it can be surprising to give yourself time off. You’ll always find excuses as to why you need to keep working. Whether it’s a matter of time, money, or the business needs you. However, for the sake of your well-being, it’s so important to give yourself a break. With plenty of planning, it’s definitely doable. 
Budget
You’ll need to set yourself a holiday budget: where can you afford to go, and how long for. Whether it’s two-weeks on a tropical island, or even just a small journey close to you. Pick a place which works for you and will allow you to relax. You don’t want to be stressing about how you can afford this before you’ve even gone. Remember, there are also plenty of travel hacks you can follow to save money for your getaway.
Planning
Booking a holiday requires a lot of organisation on your part. It’s not just sorting out transport and accommodation, but also sorting your work for the time you’ll be away for. There are a few steps you can take to make life easier for yourself. Be upfront with your clients about your break. Don’t take on any new projects in the weeks leading up to your time off. Make sure you’ve got an automated out of office email set up. Create a checklist of what you want to be done before you go away.
Manage Workload
You’ll also have to be prepared to be extra productive when you get back. If you were employed by a business, colleagues could pick up your extra workload. Whereas this responsibility relies on you. Make sure you’ve got projects to return to when you get back so you start earning again. You have to accept that you can’t work enough to compensate for your time off. It’s all part of being self-employed, and the longer you do it for, the better you’ll be at finding the balance.
Switch Off
This is one of the most important things you can do during your time away: let yourself switch off. You spend so much of the year working away under your own steam. Use this time to let yourself relax and recharge yourself. Don’t bring your laptop. Don’t check your emails. Remember – your out of office is on for a reason. If needed you could even block certain apps on your phone if you’re finding it hard to stop checking them. All of this can do wonders for your well-being.
Being your own boss is rewarding, but incredibly challenging. Even a holiday requires effort on your part, but it’s so important you do it. Where would you most like to visit for your next holiday?
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