Taking Time Off This Christmas: A Friendly Reminder
If you’re reading this on December 26th, let me start with a confession: I’m not actually here. This blog was scheduled well in advance because I’m practicing what I preach by taking time off over Christmas, as any good digital assistant should. While you’re catching up on your post-holiday reading, I’m likely sipping a hot chocolate, enjoying time with family, or catching up on some well-deserved rest. I have the feeling it will be option number 3.
Scheduling this blog ahead of time wasn’t just practical—it’s symbolic of a lesson many freelancers and small business owners (myself included) often forget: taking time off is important!
As a virtual assistant and founder of Bizzybee Virtual and Social Media Assistant services, I know how tempting it is to power through the holidays, thinking we can "relax later." But trust me, taking time off over Christmas is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and your business. So, If you’ve found yourself still glued to your laptop today, let’s talk about why stepping away—even now (well after reading this, of course)— and it can still do wonders for your energy, creativity, and business. Here’s why.
Why Taking Time Off Is a Must-Do
1. You Deserve It
Freelancers and small business owners work hard all year, wearing multiple hats and often putting their needs last. The holiday season is the perfect opportunity to flip it around.
Remember: no one can pour from an empty cup. Use this time you’ve earned it.
2. It’s a Quiet Time for Most Businesses
Let’s be honest—many of your clients are also winding down for the year. Emails slow, calls stop, and the demands of work ebb. This natural lull makes it an ideal time to step away without guilt. Plus, with tools like scheduling apps (see what I did there?) and automation, you can keep things running while focusing on what matters most.
I know you are thinking that taking a break may seem counterproductive, but it can actually strengthen your client relationships in the long run. After letting clients know about my holiday availability in advance, I’ve found that they appreciate my transparency and professionalism even more. Setting boundaries communicates that you’re committed to long-term excellence rather than short-term burnout.
3. A Fresh Start Needs a Fresh Mind
The New Year is always buzzing with plans, goals, and exciting possibilities. But starting the year strong requires energy and focus—both of which come from proper rest. By taking time off now, you’re ensuring you’ll be ready to tackle January with renewed enthusiasm.
4. Increased Energy Levels
If you’re feeling run down, don’t underestimate how restorative even a few days of proper downtime can be. Since stepping away from my client inbox and logging off social media for a while, I’ve noticed a significant boost in my energy. When you’re constantly “on,” you might not realise how much your body and mind need rest until you pause.
Freelancers and small business owners often push through the holidays, thinking the work will slow down in January. But starting the new year exhausted doesn’t set you up for success. Trust me—your body will thank you for taking a real break.
5. Renewed Creativity and Inspiration
As a digital assistant for creative freelancers and small businesses, my job (and my OWN marketing) sometimes relies on creativity. This week of quiet reflection has reminded me of how stepping away from the screen can inspire fresh ideas. For example, while spending time with family, I stumbled upon a few new ideas for next year.
So, whether planning your freelance services or developing a new product, the downtime after Christmas can be a surprising source of innovation.
How to Take Time Off Without Worry
Here’s how I made sure I could step away from my business without stress—and how you can too:
1. Plan and Communicate:
I told my clients well in advance about my holiday availability. A simple email or conversation can help set expectations and reassure them that their needs are covered.
2. Leverage Automation:
Posts like this one? Scheduled! Emails? Auto-responders are on. Tools like these allow me to keep my virtual assistant services running smoothly, even offline.
3. Trust Your Systems:
Whether it’s project management tools or a reliable workflow, having systems in place ensures your business can hum along while you enjoy your break.
but don't worry. If you’re reading this on December 26th, there’s still time to reap the benefits of taking time off.
How to Make the Most of This Quiet Week
1. Disconnect (Even for a Day)
Turn off notifications, close your laptop, and enjoy a digital detox. This simple act can help you recharge and refocus.
2. Reflect on the Year Behind You
Use this week to assess your wins and challenges from 2024. For me, I’ve realised how much my freelancer business support services have evolved—and how grateful I am for the clients and opportunities that made this growth possible.
3. Plan Without Pressure
Instead of jumping headfirst into work, take a leisurely approach to planning your goals for 2025. Whether it’s expanding your offerings or carving out more time for self-care, use this moment to align your ambitions with your well-being.
Why It’s Not Too Late to Take a Break
Even if you’ve been working through Christmas, as I have said, it’s never too late to pause. The days between Christmas and New Year’s are often the slowest for clients as well, so as we move through the final days of 2024, I encourage you to embrace rest. Whether it’s a full break or just a few hours each day, taking time off is one of the best investments you can make in your freelance business, and your clients will value the refreshed, energised version of you far more than the exhausted one trying to push through.
From my own experience at Bizzybee Virtual and Social Media Assistant, I know that a well-rested mind delivers sharper ideas, better strategies, and stronger results for both you and your clients.
