Why Stepping Away From Work Can Make You a Better Business Owner

As business owners, we often wear multiple hats - marketer, salesperson, administrator, strategist - all while trying to keep our ventures afloat and growing.  The relentless hustle can make it feel like stepping away, even for a moment, is a luxury we can’t afford.  But what if I told you that taking time away from work isn’t just beneficial but actually essential to being a better business owner?

Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of believing that working non-stop is the key to success.  However, research and experience suggest otherwise.  Taking breaks, whether it’s a short walk, a weekend off or a longer holiday, can improve creativity, productivity and decision-making.  Here’s why stepping away from work can make you a better business owner and how you can implement this practice without feeling guilty or losing momentum.

1.        Avoiding Burnout Leads to Sustainable Success

Burnout is a real risk for business owners who don’t take breaks.  It manifests as exhaustion, lack of motivation and even physical health issues.  When you’re running on empty, your ability to make sound business decisions diminishes.  Taking time off allows you to recharge, ensuring you return with fresh energy and enthusiasm.

How to Implement:

• Schedule regular breaks into your calendar, just as you would meetings.

• Take at least one day a week where you don’t engage in work-related activities.

• Plan for longer breaks, such as holidays and delegate tasks to keep things running smoothly in your absence.

2.  Fresh Perspectives Inspire Innovation

Some of the best business ideas come when you’re not actively working.  Stepping away gives your mind space to wander and make unexpected connections.  Have you ever had a eureka moment in the shower or while on a walk? That’s because your brain needs downtime to process and generate creative ideas.

How to Implement:

• Engage in activities that have nothing to do with your business, such as hobbies, travel or even just reading for pleasure.

• Keep a journal or notes app handy to jot down ideas that come to you when you least expect them.

• Surround yourself with people outside of your industry for fresh insights and perspectives.

3.  Increased Productivity Through Work-Life Balance

Working longer hours doesn’t necessarily mean you’re getting more done.  Studies show that people are more productive when they work in focused bursts and take breaks.  Overworking can lead to diminishing returns where you’re spending time on tasks but not completing them efficiently.

How to Implement:

• Adopt productivity techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique (working in focused intervals with breaks in between).

• Set clear work boundaries, such as defined working hours and a dedicated workspace.

• Prioritise tasks based on impact rather than simply checking off to-do list items.

4.  Delegation Strengthens Your Business

Many business owners hesitate to step away because they feel indispensable.  However, this mindset can hinder growth.  Learning to delegate allows your business to operate independently, making it more scalable and resilient.

How to Implement:

• Identify repetitive tasks that can be outsourced to a virtual assistant or automated.

• Train your team to handle responsibilities in your absence.

• Trust others to manage aspects of your business so you can focus on high-level strategy.

5.  Improved Decision-Making

Fatigue and stress impair decision-making.  When you’re constantly in the weeds, it’s easy to make short-term decisions rather than thinking strategically.  Stepping back gives you the clarity needed to make well-informed, big-picture decisions.

How to Implement:

• Schedule regular strategy sessions away from your usual workspace.

• Reflect on past business decisions and analyze what worked and what didn’t.

• Seek mentorship or guidance from experienced entrepreneurs who can provide an outside perspective.

6.  Travel and New Experiences Boost Business Acumen

A love for travel isn’t just about relaxation - it’s a learning experience.  Exposure to different cultures, business models and ways of thinking can inspire new approaches to your own business.

How to Implement:

• Incorporate work-related learning into your travels by attending conferences or networking events abroad.

• Take note of customer service, marketing strategies or business operations you observe in other industries and regions.

• Use travel as a time for reflection, setting new goals and reassessing your business direction.

7.  Mental and Physical Health Matter

Your business relies on you and if you’re not in good health, your business will suffer.  Stress, lack of sleep and poor work-life balance can lead to health problems that ultimately affect your ability to run your company.

How to Implement:

• Prioritise sleep, exercise and healthy eating as part of your daily routine.

• Schedule time for activities that help you de-stress, whether it’s yoga, running or meditation.

• Seek professional support if needed to manage stress or anxiety.

8.  Stepping Away Helps You Reconnect With Your 'Why'

When you first started your business, you likely had a clear vision and passion for what you wanted to achieve.  Over time, the daily grind can cause you to lose sight of that purpose.  Taking a break can help you reconnect with your 'why' and reignite your motivation.

How to Implement:

• Regularly reflect on your business goals and mission.

• Spend time with family and friends who remind you why you wanted the flexibility of entrepreneurship.

• Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment outside of work.

Stepping away from work doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your business - it means you’re investing in its long-term success.  By taking breaks, delegating, prioritizing self-care and embracing new experiences, you can become a more creative, strategic and effective business owner.

If you struggle to step away, start small.  Take a half-day off, then gradually work up to longer breaks.  The more you practice, the more you’ll realise that not only does your business survive without you, but it also thrives because of the fresh perspective you bring back.  So, give yourself permission to step away - you and your business will be better for it.