We understand how hard business owners, finance professionals and entrepreneurs work all year-round. Summer offers a valuable chance to switch off, recharge and enjoy time with family and friends. But for many business owners, taking a break can come with a nagging fear: the dreaded mountain of emails and missed deadlines waiting on your return.
So, how can you truly enjoy your holiday without sacrificing peace of mind? With a little planning, smart organisation, and the right support, it is entirely possible to unplug without the anxiety of an overflowing inbox.
Plan Ahead - Your future self will thank you!
Preparation is key. The earlier you begin planning your time off, the smoother the transition. Start by reviewing your calendar and identifying any critical deadlines or meetings that may fall during your break. Can they be brought forward, delegated or rescheduled?
We encourage our clients to work closely with their advisors in the lead up to their holidays. If you’re a business owner or financial controller, make sure your accountant or business advisor is looped in well in advance. Whether it’s payroll, VAT returns or year-end accounts, early communication helps to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Get Ahead of Deadlines
It’s not just about having to avoid a digital pile-up while you’re away; it’s also about creating space to relax and recharge. Aim to complete key tasks at least a week before you’re due to go on holiday. This buffer gives you time to handle any unexpected issues without the clock ticking down to your departure.
Our clients often tell us how helpful it is to have a second pair of eyes on financial deadlines. Whether it’s support with cash flow management or management accounts, here at Haines Watts, we can help lighten your workload so you can fully switch off.
Delegate and Automate Where You Can
Don’t be afraid to delegate. Handing off routine or non-urgent tasks to trusted team members is essential for smooth operations during your absence. Create a handover document outlining any ongoing tasks, key contacts, and escalation procedures.
Technology also has your back. Use auto email responses, scheduling tools and shared calendars to keep your team aligned and your inbox under control. We help our clients streamline their processes using cloud accounting and automation tools, giving peace of mind even when away from the desk.
Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
One of the hardest parts of holidaying is actually being able to switch off. If you must check in with your emails and business, schedule a brief, specific window each day, and stick to it! Better still, trust your team and avoid your inbox altogether.
Communicate clearly with clients and colleagues before you leave, letting them know who to contact in your absence and when you’ll be back. A well-crafted out-of-office message can work wonders in setting expectations and preserving your time off.
Lean on Trusted Advisors
You don’t have to do it all alone. One of the benefits of working with Haines Watts is the ability to rely on experienced professionals who understand your business and can step in to support you when needed.
Whether it’s handling an urgent HMRC query or providing interim finance support, our team is here to ensure your business keeps running smoothly, so you can enjoy your time at the beach, BBQ or staycation - without checking your phone every five minutes!
Time off is not a luxury; it is a necessity, especially when you’re running your own business. If you’d like support getting your business summer-ready, from financial planning to day-to-day accounting, please get in touch with your nearest Haine Watts team.
We’re here to help you take a break, without breaking a sweat!
