🌴 A non-negotiable: taking 1 month off

For 6 years and counting, I've made it a ritual to take a month-long break every year.

Whether I was an employee or running my own company, I've managed to do this while still making 6 figures. 🎉

It’s a non-negotiable for me.

Why is this so crucial, you ask?

• 🎨 Inspiration

  I’ve spent my time off tango-ing in Argentina, fishing in Okinawa (this year!), and learning to scuba dive. Trying something new can spark fresh ideas and perspectives.

• 😌 Rest

  Racing towards a deadline can be exciting but also puts duress on yourself, both physically and mentally. Reading a book, cooking with a friend, playing a game (NYT Spelling Bee has me hooked on the daily) are all ways to rest without expectation.

• 🎖️Priorities

  Let's get real, work isn't everything. I love my business and working with clients, but family and loved ones always come first. This year I went to Korea and Japan with my partner and am planning some epic board game battles with my family in Portland, Oregon.

How do I pull this off? And more importantly, how can you do the same?

• 🤝 If you're an employee, find a company that values work-life balance as much as you do.

  My last 4 employers have all had a generous vacation policy, great parental leave, and closed down for the holidays.

• 📆 Plan your vacation time in advance and communicate it to your manager. This ensures smooth operations while you're away.

• 👩‍💼 Set an example. As a manager, I've always encouraged my team to take time off.

  Yes, we had deliverables but no, we did not need to work 24/7. Let your reports and colleagues know it’s okay and take the time off yourself.

• 🚀 If you're self-employed, plan and automate as much as you can. Most of my posts this month were scheduled while I was scarfing down sushi in Okinawa. 😂

How much time off do you take? I’d love to know how you spend it.

Rooting for you,

❤️ Sarah

Loving:

🎲 Azul! This board game is a new hit with my senior-aged parents and younger sister. We enjoy playing it at the dinner table.

Start With Hello is a letter of quips, tips, and stories for the always curious. It’s written by Sarah, a coach, founder, and Sushi Go aficionado. I offer 1:1 coaching for women in tech and if you’re in a rut, I’ve got you - book a consultation. Please pass this along to a friend if they’d find it interesting AND have a brilliant day⚡️.