It is all systems go as we approach the end of the year. Today I am going to show you how you can holiday proof your business – to ensure you can take a restful break this year.
Taking just three simple steps now will enable you to step away at the end of the year and have a really well-earned break. We cannot sustain the lifestyle of 2021 and I am here to show you how you can recharge with the confidence that your business won’t be impacted as you do so. So, let’s get into it.
First, we need to actually block out the holidays! Remember you are the boss. Open your calendar and block out your leave. Start to adequately prepare the people in your business, including your clients, who will need to know you are unavailable. By asking your clients ‘is there anything else you need before the end of the year,’ you are setting up the expectation that you will be away. It’s all about communication and managing expectations.
Second, we need to take a look at our 2021 to-do list and have a reality check as to what is actually achievable in reality in this time. My tip – be realistic and ruthless. Not everything needs to happen in 2021 – what can be transferred into 2022? What tasks on our list have you been avoiding all year that could be taken off your list completely? Now that we have a realistic to-do list – it’s time to book out time in your calendar, before the end of the year, to actually achieve those tasks. Batch similar tasks, and work when you are at your best.
Lastly, we need to consider what is going to happen while you are away –how the business will run when you are not there. It is a tell-tale sign of a sustainable business if you are able to walk away and your business continues to run smoothly. Work on finding someone who can look after your tasks. Remember, it is important to have guidelines and structure around this. Automation is a great tool. We can now schedule emails, invoices and marketing so, automate as much as you can.
Not all of us can walk away completely. So, if you need to work a couple of days of your holidays then book this in. Make it clear to yourself, family and team when you will be contactable so you can actually relax.
Holidays are the perfect circuit breaker. The best ideas come to you when you give yourself space. It gives you the clarity to think ‘big picture’ which is not always possible to do in the day-to-day. You need to be well for your business to do well. So, boost your business – take a break this summer and enjoy – it’s been a long year for us all.
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