Take a holiday: It’s good for business

Taking time off can be scary, but skimping on holidays can leave your business worse-off.

Taking time off from your business can be a scary prospect, but skimping on holidays can leave your business worse-off in the long run, say experts.

Many mortgage brokers have faced difficult conditions in the past few years, and the pressure on business owners has started to add up, says RSM Bird Cameron head of business solutions Andrew Graham.

“Profit and cash flow issues mean reduced staffing. That generally requires more input from the owners of the business. In tough times, owners have to get their hands dirty and stay very close to the business trends to be able to react to market changes quickly. Many Australian businesses are still operating in a difficult environment, which means more time in the business.”

With the holiday season fast approaching, barely a quarter of SME owners plan to take time out of their business in the next twelve months, according to RSM Bird Cameron’s thinkBIG study.

Research has shown that being under constant pressure floods the brain with stress hormones, destroying your ability to make good decisions and function to your best ability as a business owner. Times of wakeful rest help to rejuvenate the brain and improve intelligence.

Taking time out will not only help you achieve your full potential, but also gives the opportunity to see the bigger picture in your business, says Graham.

“Planning time to rest and rejuvenate is important. It gives business owners the opportunity to reflect and refresh their plans without the distraction of day-to-day workload. It also helps them get a fresh perspective on the business and prepare for the New Year.”

Do you need a break from the stress? Place your comments below.