Small Business Owners Rethink Holidays: Insights from Entrepreneurs on Work-Life Balance Amid Research Findings
Small business proprietors find it challenging to step away from work, with recent findings indicating that nine out of ten Brits continue working while on vacation. The research, conducted by TUI, highlights this phenomenon as a “downtime deficit,” revealing that most business owners only take five days of annual leave annually, in contrast to the average 17 days taken by 9 to 5 employees.
Two entrepreneurs, passionate about their work yet struggling with work-life balance, are determined to shift their perspective on holidays. They aim to inspire others to prioritize much-needed rest by sharing their personal experiences.
“I enjoy my work as a builder, but I’m adjusting my approach for the sake of my future child,” says Tom Plumridge, a 32-year-old self-employed builder from Buckinghamshire.
Since he was 21, Tom hasn’t had a two-week vacation. Despite his fondness for his job’s flexibility, the impending father realizes the need to reprioritize due to its demanding nature.
“As an entrepreneur, you never really switch off; there’s always something in the back of my mind,” Tom explains. “Holidays feel near-impossible to enjoy – I constantly worry that I might lose out on work or that another builder, who hasn’t jetted off abroad, will be hired instead.”
However, impending fatherhood has prompted Tom to reconsider his approach. “Now I know that I’ve got the little one on the way, priorities have now changed. Once the baby comes, I’ve got to really change how I work because I don’t want to miss out, that includes taking time away as a family to create memories.”
Despite the challenges, there are perks to self-employment. Tom appreciates the autonomy and freedom it offers, along with the opportunity to meet new people in the building trade.
“Helping people is what I’m passionate about, but I sometimes forget my own needs,” says Zavia, a self-employed personal trainer from Manchester.
Her clients are more than just a means of income; Zavia is deeply invested in their well-being and progress, adding intensity to her already demanding workload. Despite the fatigue, she finds fulfillment in aiding others on their fitness journeys. “Helping people is what I’m passionate about… it’s my life,” she affirms. While she appreciates the autonomy of self-employment, Zavia admits that her dedication sometimes leads her to neglect her own needs.
Although Zavia occasionally travels, most of her trips are work-related, with little time for personal relaxation. Even on holiday, she finds it challenging to disconnect, often spending hours tethered to her phone or laptop. TUI’s research indicates that Zavia’s experience is not uncommon, with nearly all entrepreneurs confessing to working during their vacations, and a significant portion dedicating several hours a day to work even while on leave.
Despite the pervasive work culture among entrepreneurs, some recognize the importance of taking breaks. A notable portion acknowledge the value of time off in recalibrating their priorities and goals. However, many find it difficult to prioritize leisure over work, with nearly half admitting to taking minimal time off in the past year. Additionally, work commitments frequently force entrepreneurs to cancel planned holidays, further exacerbating the imbalance between work and personal life.
Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential. Despite Zavia’s passion for her work and the immediate impact she witnesses in her clients’ lives, she recognizes the value of downtime. While she revels in her clients’ transformations, she also longs for the opportunity to unwind fully and recharge. TUI’s initiative to offer entrepreneurs a chance to win a holiday resonates with Zavia and others like her, serving as a reminder to prioritize self-care amidst the demands of running a business.
“It’s great to see such passion and drive in our nation,” said Andrew Flintham, managing director, TUI UK&I.
“At TUI, we believe everyone, including those hustling and growing a business, have definitely earned a break – whether that’s resting on the beach with emails on do not disturb, or discovering the depths of a new city.
“We are so happy to be able to gift deserving entrepreneurs a trip away that’s well-overdue for many, so we encourage everyone to nominate someone they feel is going above and beyond – whether they are growing a business from the ground up or hustling on the side.”
FACT BOX: TOP PROFESSIONS WHERE PEOPLE TOOK JUST 1-2 DAYS OFF LAST YEAR
- Personal Trainers (35%)
- Photographer / videographer (27%)
- Designers (25%)
- Plumbers (22%)
- Makeup artists (20%)
- Electricians (19%)
- Hairdressers (18%)
- Builders and Chefs (16%)
- Farmers, Beauticians and Shop Keepers (15%)