I didn’t set out for August to be a month “off” from selling my services, but as soon as it started, I intuitively knew it was the right move. I was in a new environment, had travel plans, was preparing for a new launch, and had another stream of income that made it possible. When the opportunity arose, it felt right to embrace it.
For the past month, I haven’t focused on selling my services at all. In fact, I’ve decided that taking August off every year is something I want to do moving forward. You might wonder why. Let’s dive into the reasons and how this approach can benefit your business too.
The Value of Seasonal Shifts
At first, I felt resistance to taking a month off, despite having another income stream providing financial security. I realised this resistance stemmed from a belief that in business, I should always be either growing or maintaining momentum—never plateauing, and certainly not stepping back.
But one of the reasons I left the 9-to-5 was to escape its rigidity. I craved the freedom to take care of myself, stay connected, and follow inspiration. Trying to make every month in my business identical was turning it into the very thing I wanted to avoid: something forced and inflexible.
Takeaway for You: Not every season in your business needs to be about pushing forward. Recognise the natural ebb and flow. Some periods are for growth, others for planning, and some for resting. Honour the cycle that works best for you, and your business will thrive more sustainably.
The Power of Strategic Pauses
Talking with a friend who works at a marketing agency reminded me that they never launch anything in August. Instead, they use it to plan, strategise, and lay the groundwork for future growth. This practice isn’t just about avoiding the summer slowdown; it’s about using the time wisely to prepare for a stronger push later.
In my own business, I found that stepping back in August didn’t mean stagnation. The absence of active selling allowed me to redesign my offerings, finalise my next big launch, and map out marketing strategies for the months ahead.
Takeaway for You: Strategic pauses can be incredibly powerful. Use quieter periods not just to rest, but to plan, refine, and innovate. This way, when you do re-engage, you’re not just maintaining your business—you’re elevating it.
Reframing a Relationship with Productivity
There’s a pervasive belief that productivity means constant action. But in reality, the quality of your output often improves when you’ve had time to rest and recharge. This month off has given me a “back to school” feeling—refreshed, focused, and eager to dive back into my work with renewed energy.
This is particularly important as a solo entrepreneur. Unlike in traditional employment, we don’t get automatic sick pay or holiday leave. While taking a month off might seem excessive, when you factor in the small business demands, it’s probably equivalent to the time off most employees take annually.
Takeaway for You: Redefine productivity in your business. Understand that rest and renewal are not just luxuries—they’re essential to maintaining high levels of creativity, energy, and effectiveness. By allowing yourself time off, you actually boost your productivity in the long run.
Embrace the Long-Term Vision
Taking a break doesn’t mean you’re losing ground; it means you’re setting yourself up for greater success. This August has been about more than just rest—it’s been a period of recalibration. I’ve come back with a clearer vision, stronger strategies, and the kind of energy that will allow me to go “all-in” as I move forward.
I feel like I've truly embodied my brand and my service in a way that makes it far easier to market is successfully. It's easy to get caught up in selling a service without taking the time to truly experience it for yourself. This is one of the key concepts of marketing; creating resonance with your service and those that receive it.
Takeaway for You: Think long-term. A well-timed break can be the key to avoiding burnout and ensuring sustained growth. Trust that the work you put in during periods of rest—whether it’s strategic thinking, personal development, or simply recharging—will pay dividends when you’re back in action.
Final Thoughts
August will now be my annual pause, a time for reflection, strategy, and renewal. This practice of taking intentional time off has not only helped me avoid burnout but has also positioned my business for future success. By embracing the natural rhythms of work and rest, I’ve found a balance that allows me to operate at my best.
If you’re a fellow entrepreneur, consider where you can create space in your own life and business. Remember, growth isn’t always about constant motion. Sometimes, the most significant leaps happen after you’ve given yourself the freedom to step back, breathe, and come back stronger.
Comments