by Angela Darar
As the year gets into full swing, many of us are already looking ahead to plan our breaks and holidays. Recently, someone suggested that we should all take one week off every quarter to maintain balance and avoid burnout. It’s a lovely idea in theory, but in practice, I know for some of us it may not always feel realistic. In fact, almost half of British workers do not take their full annual leave allowance.
For me and Jas, it’s less about rigidly scheduling breaks and more about thoughtful planning. We always start by locking in the big things first. At the start of the year, we sit down and decide on the key dates—business events, family commitments, and yes, our holiday trips. Once those are in place, everything else gets built around them. This approach helps us prioritise what’s most important without the overwhelm of trying to squeeze in last-minute plans.
But let’s be honest—taking time off isn’t just about scheduling; it’s about mindset. The truth is, you can book a holiday, but if you’re glued to your phone, checking emails, or worrying about work, you might as well have stayed in the office.
According to the same article I shared above, “Even when workers do utilise their annual leave, some are still inclined to carry on with their work, even when they are supposed to be taking a well-earned break.”
So the real test of balance is whether you can step away from your business and actually switch off. That’s why having confidence in your team, systems, and processes is so crucial. When everything is running smoothly, you can relax knowing things are in capable hands.
Sometimes, it boils down to how you feel. Are you in a position to leave? Do you feel confident everything is under control? Or does the idea of taking time off add to your stress because things feel too critical right now? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but I’ve learned that the key is honesty. If taking a break now feels impossible, that’s okay—but set a goal to get to a place where it is possible. It’s something Jas talks about a lot in our business workshops—how to create a business that works for you, not the other way around. If that’s the balance you’re striving for, why not join us at one of our upcoming events?
Ultimately, time off should recharge you, not drain you further. Whether you choose to take a week off this quarter, or later in the year, remember that the goal isn’t just to have a break, but to enjoy it fully. And when you’re ready, REACH is here to help you build the confidence, team, and systems that make stepping away feel not only possible but enjoyable.
Here’s to planning those well-deserved breaks and making the most of them!
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