Here’s a personal fact: I need eight hours of sleep a night. If I get that, I can deal with most anything. If I don’t, I’m a mess. 

 

So, the clock matters in my life. I waste little time. There’s much to do, and I must sleep. Do you relate to this? 

 

Routines matter, right? We’re best when we establish cycles and stick to them. We’re at our worst when we’re haphazard with our time or establish the wrong sort of cycles, like staying up too late or drinking too much. 

 

I think of vacations as part of my yearly mental routine. I need a refresher annually, a time to disconnect and physically go somewhere different. But “vacation” exists in our daily routines, too. 

 

How Can We Break the Circle of Negativity? 

 

Think of your daily mental space: 

 

• The off button: Sleep

 

• Active input: you’re seeking specific information

 

• Passive input: you’re taking in information without much direction  

 

• Processing time: you’re alone with your thoughts and contemplating a topic

 

• Productivity: you’re getting your tasks done

 

• Relaxation: you’re outside of productivity hours, focused on feeling rejuvenated

 

As business owners, it’s easy to get caught up in the productivity cycle to the point where there’s no room for anything else. But just as our bodies need sleep to function, our minds need moments of active input, processing, and relaxation to stay sharp and avoid burnout. 

 

How do you create that mental space when your to-do list is a mile long, and your team constantly looks to you for guidance? That’s where HireSmart’s virtual employees come in. 

 

Want to Bring the Best People into Your Business? 

 

Our VEs are more than just remote staff. They’re your partners in creating a more balanced, sustainable work life. By taking on critical tasks and providing reliable support, they free up your time and mental bandwidth to focus on the things that truly matter. 

 

“Mitch takes ownership of issues, goes out of her way to help the team and always stays upbeat even if she’s dealing with a difficult owner,” said her client. “She was our first VE and she’s been so successful that we expanded the team and brought on more VEs.” 

 

Imagine being able to step away from your desk for a midday walk, knowing that your VE is handling customer inquiries, or carve out an hour each morning for strategic planning without being pulled into the day-to-day firefighting, or even unplugging completely for a week-long vacation, confident that your business is in capable hands. 

 

That’s the power of delegation, and it’s a game-changer for busy business owners. But the benefits extend beyond your own well-being. When you’re able to find moments of recharge and clarity, they ripple out to your entire team. 

 

Future Proofing Your Business! 

 

You’re able to show up as a more present, focused leader. You have the mental space to listen to your employees’ ideas and concerns. You can think strategically about improving processes, innovating products, and creating a workplace culture that prioritizes balance and well-being. 

 

When onsite employees see your balanced mindset, they are empowered to do the same. They feel empowered to take their own moments of recharge, step away from their desks for a quick reset, or actually use their PTO without guilt. 

 

The result is a more engaged, productive, and loyal team. When people feel their workplace supports their overall quality of life, not just their output, they’re more likely to go the extra mile. 

 

So, how can you start infusing your daily routine with more “vacation” moments? 

 

Here are a few tips: 

 

• Block off time on your calendar each day for a mental break, even if it’s just 15 minutes. Use that time to walk, read a book, or sit quietly and let your mind wander.

 

• Set clear boundaries around your work hours and communicate them to your team. Tell them when you’ll be offline and unavailable, and stick to those limits.

 

• Delegate or automate tasks that are eating up your time and energy but aren’t necessarily the best use of your skills. That’s where your VE can be a lifesaver.

 

• Encourage your onsite employees to take their moments of recharge. 

 

• Lead by example. When you take a vacation, really unplug. Show your team that it’s OK and encourage them to step away and recharge.

 

Want to Shower Your Future Self With Gifts? 

 

Creating a vacation mindset in your daily life isn’t about slacking off or neglecting your responsibilities. It’s about recognizing that your mental well-being is just as important as your productivity and that finding moments of restoration can ultimately help you give more to your business and your people. 

 

HireSmart is here to help. Our VEs are ready to take on the tasks weighing you down so you can focus on the big picture and find your vacation moments every day. 

 

If you’re ready to explore how a VE can help you create more balance and recharge in your work life, click here to schedule a consultation.  

 

I want you to get a good night’s sleep, just like me. 

 

Cheers! 

   

Anne + The HireSmart Team