Why I took my laptop on holiday — and I’d do it again.
Our summer holidays are booked about a year in advance – it gives us something to look forward to all year, but somehow it still sneaks up on me when it comes to managing work before (and during) the break.
This year we were off to Bude in Cornwall — a peaceful spot we fell in love with six years ago. This time around, it was a chance to reset and spend proper time with my husband and two boys, away from emails, social media alerts and "just one more quick job".
But let’s be honest. As a small business owner, truly switching off can be hard.
Even when you’ve told clients you’re away, set an out-of-office, and prepped your schedule, your brain doesn’t always get the memo. Whether you’ve got someone to hold the fort or it’s just you, the worry is the same: will everything still tick over without me?
Here’s how I tried to make it work — and why I know I can do better.
Planning ahead: digital marketing and communication tips
I always talk about consistency, so it was important to practise what I preach. A few things I set up before heading off:
Social media scheduling: I used Metricool to plan and schedule posts in advance. Stories were a mix of in-the-moment updates and quiet behind-the-scenes. I still wanted to show the real me — especially the family part.
Out-of-office replies: Email autoresponder, automated social media replies, and my Calendly link set to accept bookings for when I returned.
Client comms: I let clients and subscribers know a month ahead via my newsletter, provided handovers for retainer clients, and used social posts to remind others.
The result? No surprises, fewer emails, and a bit of breathing space.
Being realistic about switching off
I didn’t leave the laptop at home — and I don’t feel bad about it.
I gave myself permission to check in briefly during downtime so it didn’t interfere with family time. I handled a couple of urgent tasks for a retainer client, which was agreed in advance.
The rest could wait.
And actually, those small check-ins helped me relax more during the day. It stopped the build-up of “what ifs” and meant I could be more present.
A change of scene fuels creativity
Even when I’m not at my desk, my brain is still whirring. It’s just how I’m wired — especially when I love what I do.
Being away helps me think differently. The scenery, people-watching, flicking through magazines or just sitting still with a coffee... it all sparks ideas. For my own business, and for the clients I support.
We all need a reminder sometimes of why we started. A break gives you that.
It wasn’t perfect, but it worked for me
I’m not the best at switching off (just ask my husband!)
But I’ve learned that you don’t have to follow anyone else’s rules. If checking in early morning helps you relax during the day — do that. If leaving the laptop behind makes you feel lighter — go for it.
A break doesn’t have to be all or nothing. It’s about finding what balance looks like for you.
What works for you?
If you’re a small business owner, freelancer or charity founder — how do you handle time off?
Do you fully unplug? Batch content in advance? Or take a few tools with you and dip in gently?
I’d love to hear your tips and routines that help you step back without stepping away entirely. Because even when you love what you do, a little pause does you (and your business) the world of good.
