With only weeks to go until Christmas and the New Year it is important that you set yourself some time for a break from your handmade business.

I know the idea of shutting down strikes fear into the heart of many handmade business owners… but honestly? Taking a real break from your business can often be THE BEST thing you can possibly do. Both for you, and for the future of your business.

Whether you take a day to yourself, or have a big holiday planned, there are some things to think about in advance to ensure that you are prepared and have the confidence in taking a break that you can really enjoy.

In this episode I share some practical tips that will take the stress out of your holiday, and give you a step-by-step plan that tells you how to get everything you need to do done.

I’d love to hear about your holiday-taking experiences in the comments below, too! When’s the last time you took a proper break from your business? How did it go? And do you have any tips for your fellow makers on this process?

Quotes and highlights from this Episode:

* ‘If you work yourself too hard, you will end up resenting your business’. {Jess}

* Take the fear out of taking a break from your business.

* Saving enough money and making sure you have more than you need.

* Work harder before your break so you can enjoy it.

* ‘Your life is more than just your business’. {Jess}

* Write an action plan ahead of time.

* ‘It’s all about communication, communication, communication’. {Jess}

* Preparing your regular customers.

* Announce clearly and announce early.

* Set up email responders and vacation notices.

* Keeping visible during your break.

* Have a set date to re-open.

* ‘Re-spark the fire that drives you’. {Jess}

* Taking a break is powerful for the future of your business.

Download/Listen to this Episode

http://createandthrive.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/35_How_To_Take_a_Break_from_Your_Handmade_Business.mp3

 

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