Blog

Summer is a cherished season for many of us in Michigan. Soaking up all the sun and warmth we can get, stealing away to “Up North” and getting in some rounds of golf (or other favorite sport) is just the tonic I need to recuperate from the cold of January. Summer vacation is a “must” on my to-do list.

A number of years ago, a newspaper business columnist I know was working on a story about small business owners taking a vacation. She asked me whether I took a vacation. I responded with a hearty “yes!” Like all business owners, I work hard, but I also know that unless I get a respite from the office, I cannot be as effective as I’d like to be. Without a vacation, I will burn out, lose passion and just get cranky.

The same columnist also asked one of my competitors the same question. Their answer: they never took a vacation.

Perhaps that works for some people, but not for me.

I’ve spent the last few months doing some PR work for Mike Kotsis, founder of GPS for Small Business (http://www.gpsforsmallbusiness.com/). Mike has a great perspective on work and life. He believes that “a well-run organization can positively impact the lives of everyone in the company, their families, and everyone they come into contact with.” And that positive impact includes the business owner being able to take a vacation.

As much as I love what I do, I know that I definitely need a vacation. Hope you’re taking time off this summer to enjoy something/somewhere you love.

-Sue Voyles