If you run your own business, taking a real vacation can feel impossible. The emails, the client calls, the tiny tasks only you know how to do. It all piles up in your mind until you convince yourself, “Maybe next year.”

But here’s the thing: you deserve time off, too. And with a bit of planning, you can step away without the wheels falling off.

Here’s how to keep your business running while you’re on vacation—and actually relax while you’re gone.

1. Start with the right mindset

First, know this: you don’t have to disappear for two weeks with zero signal (unless you want to).

Taking a vacation might just mean unplugging for a few days or setting limits on how much you’ll check in.

Decide what your version of “out of office” looks like:

• Total digital detox?

• Light check-ins once a day?

There’s no right or wrong—just what feels good for you.

2. Pick the best time to step away

Look at your calendar and pick a stretch that’s naturally quieter. Avoid launch weeks, big client deadlines, or key events if you can.

If there’s no perfect time, pick the least-busy time. (Spoiler: there will never be zero work.) The goal is to choose a time when your absence has the least impact.

3. Write down what has to happen while you’re gone

Grab a notebook and jot down:

• What absolutely must keep running? (Client deliverables, customer support, payments, social posts)

• What can wait until you’re back?

• What can you prep ahead of time?

This becomes your vacation continuity plan—yes, just like a mini business continuity plan.

4. Automate or batch anything you can

Got newsletters, social posts, or routine updates? Write and schedule them before you go.

Tools to help:

• Email autoresponders for common client questions

• Social media schedulers (Buffer, Later)

• Invoicing tools that send reminders automatically

Every little bit helps reduce your “while away” to-do list.

5. Delegate smartly

If you have a team (or even a VA), hand off what you can. Be clear about:

• What they’re responsible for

• How to handle urgent issues

• How and when they should contact you (or not!)

Leave cheat sheets, logins, and backup contacts for anything they might need.

6. Tell people you’re going

Let clients and partners know ahead of time when you’ll be away and who they can reach for urgent issues.

A simple, friendly heads-up works:

“Hey! Just so you know, I’ll be out of the office from the 10th to the 17th. Everything’s covered while I’m away, but if anything pops up, [Team Member’s Name] is your go-to.”

Then set an out-of-office reply with the same info. Done.

7. Be realistic about emergencies

Sometimes things happen. Give yourself one clear way for people to reach you for true emergencies only.

Example:

“If something urgent can’t wait, text me at this number.”

That way you’re not glued to email all day—but people know how to find you if the sky is falling.

8. Actually unplug

Here’s the hardest part: step back and let it run.

Trust your prep. Trust your people. Trust that your business will survive without you for a few days.

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s to rest, recharge, and come back better.

One last thing

Your business shouldn’t fall apart because you want a break. If stepping away feels impossible, it might be time to tighten up your systems or delegate more.

A little upfront planning and trust can give you freedom and peace of mind.

Need help building systems so you can take a real break?

I help founders and small teams get organized so the business runs smoothly—whether you’re at your desk or on a beach.

If you want to make your next vacation stress-free, I’m here.

Here’s to working smart, resting well, and keeping your business steady while you live your life.