This time last week, I was sitting by the pool in a sun-drenched holiday resort on a Greek island. It was a much-needed break for my husband and I to celebrate our 10-year wedding anniversary. We had decided well over a year ago to go away (child-free!) to celebrate this marriage milestone but at that point I was not self-employed. I still had holiday pay and someone to cover for me if needed.
Fast-forward to the end of April 2018 and I am on my own in the big bad world of business, worrying about GDPR, accounts and finding the next client. Was it really a good time to go on holiday?
I was apprehensive and nervous, but I knew that I could still do some work if needed – we are in the 21stcentury after all – the resort has Wi-Fi.
But then I agonised over whether I should be doing work. “You’re supposed to be on holiday”, my inner voice said.
I sought advice from friends and connections on LinkedIn and Facebook. “Enjoy yourself”, they all said.
It turns out that I needn’t have worried and lose sleep over it. Yes, the Wi-Fi worked and I answered the odd email, with the line: “Thank you so much for getting in touch. I’m away at the moment so can we pick this up next week?”
No-one got upset with that reply, no-one took their business away and the world did not stop turning.
It was so nice to have break and relax. It was nice to spend some quality time with my husband and it was nice to be on my own time-frame, not a 3-year old’s one. I was able to read, to have a drink and to go to the gym when I wanted.
And now I am rejuvenised for what’s coming up ahead. I’m raring to get back to it, meet the deadlines that are looming and pitch for new work. I’m glad I didn’t take my laptop away and advise those who are self-employed and going on holiday to leave it at home too. Use the time for yourself. Your business will be better for it.
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