The days are long and warm, the tree frogs and cicadas sing from morning to night, the pace is unhurried.
I don’t know about you, but having grown up in France, I fervently believe in taking time off and that summer is a time to relax, rejuvenate and massively slow down.
I am unapologetic about this.
And so, every August, Derek and I take a break from our business for the month and dedicate our days to spending massive quality time with the kids.
No frantic schedules. In fact, no schedules at all.
We’ve strategically set up our business all year so we can do this, and you can too.
We alternate between the beach and the pool, and we punctuate our days with relaxed meals on the porch or the terrace, enjoying fresh salads and quick grilled ingredients.
Here’s a picture of us on a day trip to New York:
I’ve learned over the years, from working with so many hundreds of entrepreneurs, that for many, there is no such thing as “down time.”
That being “busy,” even on vacation, is a badge of honor.
That the American ideal of having-it-all comes with the high price of constantly being “on.”
I don’t believe in that.
I believe that you absolutely need time off and that, without it, you eventually burn out (and I’ve met many strung out entrepreneurs that prove this point).
That is not good for business.
So, I just wanted to drop you a quick (loving) note to make sure you’re taking some well deserved time off this month.
Make it count.
What do you love to do? Who do you love being with? What do you usually wish you had more time to indulge in?
Please share this with me in the comments below, OK?
Begin doing these wonderful things now.
That to-do list will wait. I promise.
That said, you won’t hear from me as much this month as I’m pretty much unplugging and just being.
And, although you don’t need my permission to do so, I would like you to do the same.
I’ll see you in September at back-to-school time, OK?
Enjoy every moment of it.
Sending you lots of love,
Fabienne
P.S. As we move back into September, I’ll be making an announcement about back-to-school, so keep an eye out! Hint: it has to do with ramping up your results in the Fall. But for now, just enjoy, OK? See you then! xo
Comments 11
Fabienne, I am so pleased you wrote this. I have taken a back seat and spent precious time with my family for the past 5 weeks. Its been worth it and I wouldn’t have missed a second of it.
Summer is for nature, travel, family get togethers and basically living outdoors as much as possible.
Unplug away with your beautiful family! Thanks for sharing your family photo with us:) My favorite family (and solo time) is spent on the beach on Block Island! It rejuvenates me each and every time and always brings our family together for our summertime rituals!
I just took 10 days off! I am so with you Fabienne!
At the end of today – I am taking off from tomorrow through Labor DAY!!! I have 2 days planned to work on my business for planning purposes but the rest of the time is to relax, refresh and get the creative juices flowing again. All my clients know! We have little trips planned to RI, Colorado, a dear friend visiting – the US Open…cannot wait!!!
For the longest time I felt I couldn’t take time off but once I had my team in place, I’ve made sure I take 2 weeks off during the summer and several mini get-aways throughout the year. It’s a must! But hard to do when you’re a one-man show, that’s why team building is so important!
Hi, I’m sharing my responses to your email…I love teaching; I love being w/teens who share their gifts & talents and like to learn, as well as with new business owners eager to learn; I usually wish I had more time to indulge in travel (for teaching, leadership, ministry, fashion, & theatre).
You will get there! xo
Unfortunately my down time has been spent dealing with a major UC flare. Still, happy & grateful for another ride around the sun. ☺
Hope you are feeling better! Hugs…xo
Still continue with health challenges, but I signed up for CABS Growth Track yesterday!!!!!