Tag Archive for: summer holidays

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Finance Checklist: How to Tie Up Your 2024 Finances and Set Goals for 2025

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Can you believe we’re already in November? The year is flying by, and before we know it, we’ll be welcoming 2025 with open arms (and probably several glasses of champagne). 

But before you get too caught up in the Christmas madness, let’s talk about something important: your finances.

The end of the year is prime time for making sure everything is in order, tying up loose ends, and laying the groundwork for a successful year ahead. 

Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just trying to get your personal finances in check, here’s a handy guide on what to do with your finances before the new year rolls in.

  1. Wrap Up Your Self-Assessment (Because It’s Almost Overdue!)🎁

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: your self-assessment. If you haven’t already submitted it, stop reading this post and get cracking! 

The deadline is fast approaching (31st January for online submissions), and leaving it until the last minute is a surefire way to give yourself a festive headache. And make your accountant hate you… (kinda kidding, kinda not)

Make sure all your records are up to date, expenses are logged, and income is properly reported. 

If you need help, give us a shout—but be quick!

  1. Review Your Cash Flow and End-of-Year Budget 💷

November is the perfect time to review your cash flow and see how your finances have shaped up over the year. 

Take a look at your income, expenses, and where your money has been going. This will help you get a clear picture of your financial health as you head into the final month of 2024.

Have you stayed on budget? If not, where did you go off track, and what can you adjust in the coming year? Take note of any recurring expenses or costs that you might be able to reduce or cut entirely as you start planning for 2025. 

On the flip side, celebrate what has gone well and look at where you’d like to invest more in 2025 to bring you closer to your business goals.

Knowing exactly where your money is going will give you a head start on setting smarter goals for next year.

  1. Chase Up Any Outstanding Invoices 🏃

No one wants to start a new year with unpaid invoices lingering like that leftover Christmas turkey. November is a great time to chase up any outstanding payments and make sure your accounts receivable are in order.

Send polite reminders to clients with overdue invoices and get those payments in before the year ends. 

A tidy set of books heading into December is always a good idea, and you’ll have a bit of extra cash flow for any last-minute business investments or holiday cheer.

  1. Maximise Tax Deductions and Year-End Spending👌

There are some smart moves you can make to maximise your tax deductions and ensure you’re taking full advantage of the opportunities available to you. 

For example, if there’s any essential business equipment or expenses you’ve been holding off on, now might be the time to go ahead and make those purchases.

Any eligible expenses you can deduct will reduce your taxable income for 2024. Think about things like office supplies, software subscriptions, or even professional services (hello, ChadStone!). 

And if you’re thinking of making any charitable donations, doing so will also help you with tax relief.

  1. Review Retirement Contributions 📈

If you haven’t been keeping up with your pension or retirement contributions, now’s a good time to review where you stand. 

Make sure you’re maxing out any contribution limits where possible, as this can also help with tax savings and ensure you’re setting yourself up for a financially secure future.

Check with your accountant or financial adviser and ensure you’re making the most of your allowances.

  1. Set Financial Goals for 2025 🥅

Once you’ve got your 2024 finances in order, it’s time to think about the future. What do you want to achieve financially in 2025? This is where goal-setting comes into play.

Whether it’s increasing revenue for your business, paying down debt, or growing your savings, set clear, specific, and achievable goals. 

Think about what worked (and didn’t work) this year, and use that information to create a solid financial game plan for 2025. 

Here’s a tip: break your big goals down into quarterly milestones. This makes it easier to track your progress and adjust if needed. Plus, it’ll help you stay motivated throughout the year.

  1. Meet with Your Accountant (That’s Us!)👋

Book in a chat with your accountant to review your financial situation and goals for the new year. We can help you look at your tax liability, identify any areas where you can save, and make sure everything’s squared away.

It’s also a great opportunity to talk strategy for 2025. Whether you want to expand your business, optimise your taxes, or just get a better handle on your day-to-day finances, we’re here to help you plan and make informed decisions for the year ahead.

So, there you have it! Seven key things you can do with your finances before the end of the year to make sure 2024 wraps up neatly and you’re ready to hit the ground running in 2025.

From sorting out that self-assessment (seriously, do it now) to setting goals for the future, getting your financial ducks in a row in November will save you a ton of stress in December—and set you up for a strong start next year.

And as always, if you need help with any of the above, the team at ChadStone Accountancy & Tax is here to lend a hand. Let’s get those finances sorted and make 2025 the best year yet!

Dave, Al and the ChadStone Team




IN THE MEANTIME, HERE’S SOMETHING FOR YOU…👇

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.
  • Do you need your accounts taken care of for you? You can Book a Discovery Call here.




This is a picture of business owners and their team having a productive meeting, following the 7 steps in this blog to Propel Your Business Forward in the Final Quarter of the Year

How to Propel Your Business Forward in the Final Quarter of the Year

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Now that we’ve successfully navigated the tricky post-summer return to reality (if you missed that post, no worries—you can catch it here), it’s time to turn our focus to something big. 

Yep, we’re talking about the final quarter of the year. We’re officially on the homestretch, and this is where the magic happens.

While the year might be winding down, the last three months are the perfect opportunity to give your business that final push to cross the finish line strong. 

Whether you’re looking to hit those targets, set up for a successful next year, or just give your business that extra spark, here’s how you can use the final quarter to propel your business forward with some actionable tips you can put into play right now.

  1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals – And Break Them Down 🤏

This isn’t the time for vague, “I just want to do better” goals. Let’s get specific. 

What do you want to accomplish by the end of the year? Do you want to increase revenue, launch a new product, or maybe streamline your operations? Whatever it is, write it down, and then break it into smaller, bite-sized steps. 

For example, if your goal is to increase revenue by 10%, figure out how you’re going to get there. 

Are you going to run a promotional campaign? Reach out to new clients? It’s all about creating a roadmap for these last few months so you know exactly what to focus on each week.

And remember, don’t get overwhelmed by the bigger picture. By breaking your goals into actionable tasks, you’ll find that final quarter push much more manageable—and much more achievable.

  1. Review Your Finances and Revisit Your Budget 💷

The final quarter is the perfect time for a financial check-up. Where do your numbers stand? Are you hitting your revenue targets? Do you need to make adjustments to your budget for the remainder of the year?

Take a close look at your cash flow, upcoming expenses, and any big financial goals you’ve been working towards. Maybe there’s room to cut unnecessary costs, or perhaps it’s time to reinvest in areas that need a little boost before the year’s out.

If you need a hand with this (because, let’s be honest, no one *loves* crunching numbers), our team at ChadStone can help you review your financials, assess your cash flow, and ensure you’re on track to finish the year strong.

  1. Maximise Year-End Sales and Marketing 🌐

If you’ve got products or services to sell, now is the time to dial up your marketing efforts. 

The final quarter brings with it key opportunities like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the festive season—all of which are prime times for promotions, sales, and attracting new customers.

Whether you’re offering discounts, running a referral program, or just highlighting your best-sellers, make sure your marketing strategy is geared towards capitalising on these high-traffic times. 

If your business is more service-based, consider offering limited-time packages or incentives to lock in clients before the end of the year. A little extra nudge with your marketing can lead to big results in these final months.

  1. Streamline Your Operations 💪

Now’s the time to tighten up your business processes. Think about how you can work smarter, not harder, during this busy season. Are there any tasks that can be automated? Any systems that need updating? 

Take a look at how you’re managing your day-to-day operations and look for opportunities to streamline. Maybe it’s time to invest in new software or delegate some tasks to your team to free up your time for bigger-picture work.

If you’re using outdated processes, the last quarter is a great time to implement changes that will not only help you now but set you up for a smooth start in the new year.

  1. Re Engage with Clients and Customers 👋

Don’t let the year end without checking in with your existing clients or customers. 

Take some time to reconnect with them, whether it’s through a simple email, a call, or a holiday greeting. 

This isn’t just good relationship-building; it’s also a chance to assess their needs and potentially upsell additional services or products before the year wraps up.

Plus, it’s a nice way to show appreciation. 

Your customers and clients have helped your business thrive all year long, so let them know how much they matter to you. A little gratitude goes a long way in keeping those relationships strong.

  1. Reflect and Plan for the Year Ahead 🗓️

While you’re focused on finishing this year strong, don’t forget to reflect on what’s worked (and what hasn’t) so far. 

Use the final quarter to evaluate your progress and think about how you can improve going into the new year.

Maybe you’ve been winging it with your social media strategy or found that certain marketing campaigns really took off.

Take note of these insights and use them to start crafting your goals and strategies for the year ahead. 

Trust us, having a game plan going into January will make things a lot easier when everyone else is still recovering from the holiday slump.

  1. Prioritise Your Wellbeing👌

Yep, we’re back to this one because it’s just that important. 

The final quarter can be a crazy time for business owners—there’s the rush to hit targets, close deals, and prep for the holidays. But don’t forget to look after yourself. 

Make time for exercise, proper meals (we’re not surviving on coffee and mince pies just yet), and downtime. A little self-care will keep you energised and clear-headed, so you can tackle those year-end tasks without burning out before December hits.

So, there you have it—seven actionable tips to help you make the most of the final quarter and propel your business forward. 

Remember, this time of year isn’t just about coasting to the finish line; it’s about using these last few months as a launchpad to finish strong and set yourself up for success in the new year.

And as always, if you need a hand with anything—from reviewing your financials to brainstorming ways to maximise year-end sales—the team at ChadStone Accountancy & Tax is always here to help.

Here’s to a powerful final push for 2024!

Dave, Al and the ChadStone Team

IN THE MEANTIME, HERE’S SOMETHING FOR YOU…👇

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.
  • Do you need your accounts taken care of for you? You can Book a Discovery Call here.




This is a photo of the ChadStone team working in the ChadStone offices to show they are implementing the 7 tips of this blog to get back into the groove after the summer holidays

Back to Business: How to Get Back in the Groove After the Summer Holidays

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It’s getting colder and greyer (apparently that’s possible?!), your children are back at school and you’re receiving less out of office responses than you have in weeks. 

That can only mean one thing, the summer holidays are over and it’s time to get back to it.

With this being the case, coming back to the working world after the summer holidays can feel alien/overwhelming/exhausting (insert your own adjective here).

Whether you’re excited to get back into it or are having a daily battle snoozing your alarm, we’re here to give you some tips to get you back in the groove after the summer holidays…

  1. Ease Into Your Routine—No Need to Dive Straight In 🏊

You’re not a machine, and getting back to work doesn’t mean jumping in at 100 miles per hour. You’ve just come back from holiday, not a marathon. 

Start slow—rebuild your routine like you’d rebuild trust with that snooze button (slow and steady).

Set your priorities, and tackle the big stuff first. 

Maybe it’s catching up on emails or having a quick team meeting, but don’t overload yourself on day one. It’s not about winning a productivity contest; it’s about getting back in gear. Before you know it, you’ll be back to cruising speed—minus the stress sweats.

  1. Set Fresh Goals—Because We’re All About the Fresh Perspective Here 😉

You know that “New Year, New Me” feeling? Well, think of this as your post-summer business reboot. 

Take a step back and think about what you really want to achieve for the rest of the year. We’re not talking about those vague “do better” goals—we’re looking at actionable, measurable stuff.

Pick three solid goals to focus on. 

Maybe you want to ramp up revenue, launch that side project you’ve been putting off, or finally tackle the Mount Everest of paperwork on your desk. Keep it simple and clear so you don’t end up overwhelmed again in a few weeks.

  1. Declutter Your Space—And Maybe Your Brain Too 🧠

Chances are, your desk (and probably your brain) look like they’ve been hit by a summer storm. 

It’s time to declutter. Clear out the old coffee cups, file away those papers that have been building up, and tidy up that email inbox that’s currently giving you palpitations.

Bonus tip: while you’re at it, why not declutter some of your processes too? Streamline where you can. Look for tasks that can be automated or apps that can help organise your chaos. It’s the equivalent of a digital detox—just less painful.

  1. Reconnect With Your Team and Clients—Without Being a Robot 🤖

So you’ve been MIA, but now it’s time to re-engage. Start with your team—schedule a catch-up, have a laugh, and then get serious about what needs to be done. This is your chance to realign everyone’s focus and set the stage for what’s coming next.

Then, reach out to your clients. A simple, “How was your summer?” can do wonders to rekindle relationships. It’s not all about business—people appreciate a little humanity, and it shows you genuinely care. 

Plus, who doesn’t love talking about their holiday adventures?

  1. Review Your Finances—Don’t Look Away Now 🫣

Ah yes, the financial check-up. It might not be as fun as reliving your summer holidays, but it’s essential to making sure your business stays on track. 

Take a moment to review your cash flow, budget, and any financial goals you set earlier in the year. 

If your summer spending was a little more “YOLO” (sorry!) than “responsible business owner,” don’t panic. It’s not too late to course-correct and make the final stretch of the year financially successful. 

And of course, if you need a little help or a good ol’ pep talk about your numbers, you know where to find us.

  1. Prioritise Wellbeing—Because Burnout is So Last Year 🧘

Remember, you don’t have to go from holiday mode to “hustle till I drop” mode. 

Yes, it’s tempting to dive back in with full force, but burning yourself out isn’t part of the plan. 

Make time for yourself, whether that’s going for a morning walk, squeezing in a workout, or even taking a proper lunch break away from your desk.

You’ve just had a lovely holiday, so let’s keep that chilled-out feeling going, shall we? A happy, healthy business owner makes for a happy, healthy business. Simple as that.

  1. Be Patient—Rome Wasn’t Built in a Day, and Your Post-Holiday Mojo Won’t Be Either 🛠️

Let’s face it, getting back into the groove isn’t going to happen overnight. You’ll probably feel a bit off-kilter at first, but that’s totally normal. 

Don’t rush it—just take it day by day, focus on small wins, and slowly ramp up your productivity.

Before you know it, you’ll be back in the rhythm of things, knocking out tasks like a pro, and wondering why you ever worried about getting back into the swing of work after your holiday.

So, welcome back to reality. 

With these tips, you’ll not only regain your routine but also start pushing your business forward in no time—without losing your sanity. 

And remember, if you ever need a little extra guidance (or a game of pool to clear your head), the team at ChadStone Accountancy & Tax is always here for you.

Here’s to getting back on track and smashing the rest of the year!

Dave, Al and the ChadStone Team



IN THE MEANTIME, HERE’S SOMETHING FOR YOU…👇

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.
  • Do you need your accounts taken care of for you? You can Book a Discovery Call here.




This is a picture of a business owner navigating the summer holidays with their child, using the 7 tips in this post

7 Tips For Navigating the Summer Holidays as a Business Owner

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As we dive into the heart of summer, many of us are juggling the demands of running a business with the joys and chaos of the children breaking up for summer. 

Balancing business and family during this period can feel like walking a tightrope whilst people are launching dodgeballs at you Takeshi’s Castle style. 

However, with a few actionable tips, we reckon you can make the most of your summer without letting your business or wellbeing slip.

Let’s get into it…

7 Tips For Navigating the Summer Holidays as a Business Owner

  1. Plan Ahead and Delegate 👌

Let’s start with the obvious—planning. It might sound like common sense, but proper planning can save you from a whirlwind of stress. 

Identify key dates when you’ll be out of the office and ensure your team knows their roles and responsibilities during this time. 

Delegation is your best friend here. Empower your team to make decisions in your absence. Trusting them not only keeps the business running smoothly but also boosts their confidence and morale.

  1. Embrace Technology 🖥️

Technology is a lifesaver for business owners, especially during the holidays. 

Tools like project management software, communication platforms, and cloud storage keep you connected and in control, even from a beach chair. 

Apps like Trello, Slack, and Google Drive can help you manage tasks, communicate with your team, and access important documents on the go. This way, you can handle urgent matters quickly and get back to enjoying your time off.

  1. Financial Check-Up 👀

Summer is a great time to give your finances a once-over. 

Review your budget, assess your cash flow, and make sure your financial goals are on track. This doesn’t mean you need to bury yourself in spreadsheets all summer. 

Set aside a few hours each week to review your financials, or better yet, let us handle it for you. 

Our team is here to help you stay on top of your finances, so you can relax knowing everything is under control.

  1. Schedule Downtime 😴

Running a business is demanding, and it’s easy to neglect your own wellbeing. 

Schedule some downtime for yourself. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a day at the beach, or simply an afternoon off, make sure to take breaks. 

Downtime isn’t just good for your health; it’s also when some of the best ideas come to light. You’ll return to your business with renewed energy and fresh perspectives.

  1. Stay Active 🤸

Staying active is key to maintaining your wellbeing during the summer. 

Incorporate exercise into your daily routine, whether it’s a morning jog, a yoga session, or a swim. 

Physical activity not only keeps you fit but also helps reduce stress and boost your mood. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.

  1. Network and Learn 👋

Summer is a perfect time for networking and learning. Attend local business events, workshops, or even casual meetups. 

Networking can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. 

Additionally, take some time to learn something new. 

Read a book, listen to a podcast, or take an online course. Continuous learning keeps your mind sharp and can provide new insights for your business.

  1. Reflect and Set Goals 🥅

Finally, use this time to reflect on your business and set new goals. 

What has worked well this year? What could be improved? 

Setting clear, actionable goals for the remainder of the year can provide direction and motivation. Reflecting on your progress helps you stay aligned with your vision and adapt to any changes.

Summer is a season to be enjoyed, and with these tips, you can strike a balance between business, finance, and wellbeing. 

Remember, the team at ChadStone Accountancy & Tax is always here to support you. 

Here’s to a fantastic summer!

The ChadStone Team

IN THE MEANTIME, HERE’S SOMETHING FOR YOU…👇

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.
  • Do you need your accounts taken care of for you? You can Book a Discovery Call here.




The ChadStone team looking happy because they have got their self-assessments done early and so have their clients because they followed their ultimate self-assessment guide

The Ultimate Guide to Self-Assessments

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It’s that time of year again when we gather to discuss everyone’s favourite topic…self-assessments. 

 

“But guys, the self-assessment deadline for the 2022/23 tax year isn’t until the 31st of January 2024?!”, we hear you already start to procrastinate 😉

 

That is true. That is the ABSOLUTE deadline before you get fined.

 

This is why in this blog, we want to give you the ultimate guide for getting your self-assessment done, whilst also giving you some game-changing reasons why you should get it done early.

 

Let’s get into it…

 

The Ultimate Guide to Self-Assessments

 

What is a self-assessment anyway?🤷

 

A self-assessment is your opportunity to report your income, expenses, and any applicable tax reliefs to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Think of it as your financial Dear Diary for the year and HMRC is your older sibling who is going to read it and use it to their advantage. 

 

We’re kidding, HMRC are lovely…

 

The tax year runs from 6th April one year, to the 5th of April the next. So, for the 2022/23 tax year, it runs from 6th April 2022 to 5th April 2023.

 

Who are self-assessments for?👇

 

Here’s a lovely little screenshot from the HMRC website for you.

Screenshot from the HMRC website detailing who needs to complete a self-assessment

 

If you are unsure whether you need to do one, you can either ask us, or there is a way to check on the HMRC website here.

 

What goes into a self-assessment?📋

 

There are two sections to a self-assessment tax return, the main section and the supplementary sections. The main section is the SA100, which deals with:

  • Taxed and untaxed income in the form of dividends and interest
  • Benefits, including State Pension, Child Benefit and Blind Person’s Allowance
  • Charitable donations
  • Pension contributions

 

If you have income to declare as any of the following, you’ll have to fill in a supplementary page:

  • From self-employment
  • Property
  • Company director
  • Capital Gains 
  • From abroad
  • Or a foreign national

 

In this section, you should also declare any allowable expenses, which will be deducted from your tax bill.

 

For more information on what expenses are allowable, give us a shout.

 

Okay, now we’ve covered the basics of self-assessments, let’s look at how you can make your life easier when it comes to sorting yours.

 

  • Gather Your Documents (And for bonus points, track them throughout the year)📁

 

To tackle your self-assessment successfully, you’ll need to gather the necessary documents. 

 

This will include things like your P60, any relevant receipts, invoices, and bank statements. 

 

If you gather these throughout the year, future you will be a big fan. If you haven’t even thought about it yet, start now so it’s not a last-minute panic.

 

  • Review Your Income Sources📈

 

Now you’ve got them all together, take the time to evaluate all of your income sources, including employment, self-employment, rental income, dividends, and interest. Make sure you have all the necessary information, such as pay slips, invoices, and statements, to accurately report your earnings. 

 

This will make your life easier when it comes to completing your self-assessment tax return.

 

  • Get those deductible expenses in👌

 

This is where the sweetness of tax relief comes in!

 

Allowable expenses include things like business costs, professional subscriptions, travel expenses, and charitable donations. 

 

Keep track of your receipts and make a note of each expense’s purpose and relevance to your work or business. This will ensure you don’t miss out on potential tax savings and who doesn’t want those?

 

  • Check for Tax Reliefs and Allowances👍

 

Don’t forget to explore available tax reliefs and allowances as these can significantly reduce your tax liability. 

 

Examples include: 

 

  • The Marriage Allowance
  • The Personal Savings Allowance
  • The Annual Investment Allowance. 

 

Researching and understanding these opportunities can save you money and make the self-assessment process more rewarding. 

 

  • Use Online Tools 🖥️

 

HMRC provides online tools and resources to simplify the self-assessment process. Consider using their Self-Assessment Online service or reputable tax software to complete your return accurately. 

 

These tools often provide step-by-step guidance and calculations, reducing the chances of errors and ensuring compliance with tax regulations. 

 

  • Bring in the big guns💪

 

If the self-assessment process feels overwhelming (we get it) or you have complex financial circumstances, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. 

 

An experienced accountant can provide personalised advice, ensure accurate reporting, and help you identify additional tax-saving opportunities. Their expertise can save you time and could reduce your tax bill. 

 

And luckily for you, we know a good one 👀

 

So, that’s the basics of a self-assessment covered, alongside the best ways to complete a return. Now, here are the benefits of doing it early…🤩

 

  • Less stress – December and January are mental enough without throwing a self-assessment into the mix. Get it done early and feel super smug later when other people are flapping.
  • More cost-effective – By doing it early, you’ll know what you owe sooner (if you do owe anything). That way, you can plan your budgeting for the year and pay your tax bill in instalments if you need to – You can also get help if you find you can’t pay.
  • You could get paid quicker – On the flip side, you can find out sooner if you’re owed a refund – and you’ll get it sooner too. That would be a sweet way to end the year.
  • More chance of getting support – If you’re doing it yourself then HMRC phone lines get horribly busy in the run-up to the self-assessment deadline in January. And if you want to use an accountant, they will not appreciate you leaving it until the last minute and may charge you an additional fee for doing so.
  • Your accountant will be your best mate – Speaking of accountants, yours will love you very much for getting it done early. Make your accountants’ Christmas by not making them have to work because you are so organised and wonderful.

 

There you have it – The Ultimate Self-Assessment Guide.

 

If you have any questions about any of this, give us a shout. We’d be happy to help so long as you haven’t left it too late 😉

 

In the meantime, here’s something for you…👇

 

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.
  • Do you need your accounts taken care of for you? You can Book a Discovery Call here.

 

Take it easy.

Al and Led

This is a picture of ChadStone's directors Al, Rob and Dave looking happy as they use the tips in this blog to not only survive the summer holidays as business owners, but enjoy them

Summer Holidays Survival Guide – Everything You Need In Your Arsenal As A Business Owner

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Ah, summer holidays – the time for sun, cold beers and relaxation… Or, for a lot of business owners, it’s sorting holiday cover, quiet periods and the children being off school.

 

But it’s okay. This summer is going to be different. This summer, you’re going to enjoy yourself, your business is going to be successful and you WILL get that cold drink of choice in the sun.

 

As business owners, managers and parents here at ChadStone, we have put together our own Summer Holidays Survival Guide. We’ve put together everything you need in your arsenal to not only survive the summer holidays, but enjoy them! 

 

Summer Holidays Survival Guide – Everything You Need In Your Arsenal As A Business Owner

 

  1. A pin 📌

 

During the summer, business can slow down a bit and that’s okay. Everyone is trying to juggle everything and so it’s going to impact things.

The pin is in your arsenal to release the pressure you are putting on yourself to keep running at a million miles an hour.

 

Instead, shift your mindset. If things are a bit quieter, embrace it and use it to: 

 

  • Get on top of the tasks that always get put to the side but linger in the back of your mind. 
  • Prepare for when it picks up to make your life easier.
  • Embrace the quieter period and take this opportunity to recharge.

 

  1. Permission to delegate👌

 

If you are lucky enough to have a team, trust and empower them to be exactly that – Your team. They’ve got your back. You hired them for a reason so let them do what they are more than capable of and free yourself up. Use that free time to take a holiday, catch up on work or both.

 

If you work by yourself, you can still have a team to support you. Reach out to freelancers, a VA or service providers to support you where you need it.

 

  1. Software 🖥️

 

Summer is the perfect time to automate repetitive tasks and streamline your processes. From social media scheduling to email automation, embrace the power of technology to take things off your plate.

 

  1. An ‘Out Of Office’👋

 

Set clear boundaries by scheduling specific times to check and respond to emails. Consider setting up an auto-reply with a touch of humour, letting people know you’re enjoying some Vitamin D and will get back to them soon. Remember, you’re in control of your inbox, not the other way around.

 

  1. Time off (Actually off!)☀️

 

Yes, we said it. Take an actual break! 

 

Schedule some time off, unplug and enjoy the summer holidays guilt-free. Trust us, your business will survive, and you’ll return with a fresh perspective and renewed energy. Remember, even the most successful business owners need to recharge their batteries.

 

  1. An ‘Is what it is’ mentality 👍

 

The summer holidays also mean the kids are at home. As parents ourselves, we totally get the carnage that comes with this! 

 

What we must remember as business owners are two things:

 

  1. If you have children, so do a lot of other business owners so you aren’t alone in trying to survive and juggle everything. People understand and are right there with you.
  2. If you don’t have children, a lot of other business owners do so you can take the pressure off yourself if things are slower than usual. It’s 6 weeks of chaos and then business will resume as normal.

 

If you do have children, here are some tips we’ve found helpful when trying to juggle parent guilt and business owner guilt:

 

– Create a Child-Friendly Work Area 🤖

 

Set up a designated workspace where your little ones can be like you. Provide them with colouring books, crayons, and mini laptops (or toy tills) so they can join in on the fun. 

 

– Plan Fun Activities ⚽

 

Take breaks throughout the day to engage in fun activities with your children. Whether it’s a water balloon fight, a picnic or a walk, these moments will create lasting memories and give you a chance to recharge before diving back into work.

 

– Involve your children in your business ☎️

 

Teach your children about your business and let them be part of it. Give them small tasks like designing a new logo, brainstorming ideas, or even helping with simple administrative tasks. Who knows, they might come up with something you haven’t even thought of!

 

– Set boundaries and feel no guilt 🙅‍♂️

 

If you’re working, do so with minimal interruption and guilt-free. You can’t spend the entire summer holidays with them and that’s okay.

 

Equally, if you’re parenting, do so with minimal interruption and guilt-free. Your business will be okay and that email can wait until tomorrow.

 

Remember, having the kids at home during the summer holidays can be both a blessing and a challenge…

Embrace the joy, laughter, and occasional meltdowns, and use it as an opportunity for family time. One major bonus of being a business owner is the flexibility that allows you to create meaningful memories with your family, while still managing to get work done.

 

There you have it – Summer Holidays Survival Guide – Everything You Need In Your Arsenal As A Business Owner

 

We hope this helps you have an awesome summer. Remember that you deserve to enjoy it – Your business and team are more resilient than you think and being a parent and a business owner is hard. You deserve an ice-cold drink in the sun, guilt-free 🍻

 

We’re also here all summer if you need us. We are all on holiday at some point because #boundaries but there will always be some of us in the office.

 

Happy summer!

In the meantime, here’s something to help…👇

 

  • Get the latest finance tips, business hacks, free resources, hilarity, memes and more by joining our monthly newsletter, ‘Sumthing To Say’ here.

 

Take it easy.

Al and Led

The Hangar
Hadley Park East
Telford
Shropshire
TF1 6QJ

01952 292729 [email protected]
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