Is it possible to run a business from the beach chair?

The Art of Running a Business While on Holiday: Is It Possible?

Sitting by the pool, sipping something cold and fruity, it’s hard to believe that, technically, I’m still “working”. I know what you’re thinking: “You’re supposed to be on holiday, put the iPad down!” But let’s be real—if you’re a small business owner like me, you know the feeling. The constant tug-of-war between enjoying some well-deserved time off and the nagging thought: “What if I miss something important?”

Those that know me know how incapable I am of relaxing. I think most, if not all entrepreneurs suffer the same issue, unable to switch off, always seeing opportunities and problem solving everything you see.

I used to be constantly worried that if I step away for even a minute, the business will fall apart. It’s like being tethered to your phone by an invisible leash, checking emails during dinner or sneaking in work calls while pretending to “relax” by the pool. Not much of a holiday.

But now, things are different. Why? Because although I don't have a huge team and multiple departments to delegate things to, I discovered a little secret weapon 3 years ago that’s changed everything - automation - and the desire to help all like minded business owners was exactly how My Biz Solution was born.

Running a Business Doesn't Have to Mean Running Yourself into the Ground

Before I stumbled onto this revolutionary solution, my holidays were less about relaxation and more about managing a business without the people I was with realising I was actually working (no matter how understanding they are they will never fully understand how you feel). Not exactly the dream, right? I’d get up earlier and head down for a quiet coffee to spend time each day answering client emails, following up on leads, managing my calendar - trying to keep the wheels turning while being a thousand miles away. And while I love my work, and the business that I was building, I started to wonder: Is this what I signed up for? When is being a business owner going to give me the work life balance I set out for?

But now, as I glance at the app on my phone (okay, maybe more than glance), I see that everything is running smoothly without me having to intervene at every turn. The magic of automation with tools like MyBiz Solution means the daily grind is no longer my constant shadow. Instead of manually responding to every inquiry or DM, or chasing down follow-ups, workflows and systems handle those tasks for me. Like little business elves keeping things humming along while I finally get a chance to try and switch off.

Automating Doesn’t Mean Losing the Personal Touch

I know what you’re thinking, “But won’t my clients feel like I’ve disappeared or been replaced by some faceless software?” I used to worry about that too, I AM my business, people invest to work with ME. The truth is, done right, automation doesn’t replace the personal connection; it enhances it.

For example, my clients still get personalised responses, timely follow-ups, and friendly reminders that seem like I’m right there with them. Those automations feel as human as possible, and clients never feel like they’re getting brushed off by a machine. It’s all about setting things up with the same tone and care you’d use yourself. And honestly, my clients probably don’t even realise I’m away (and probably don't care if a little automation means I can take a break, we are all human and no-one expects you to be there 24/7 so long as things are getting done!).

20 Minutes a Day: A Game-Changer

I’ll admit, I’m not completely off the grid. But here’s the thing, I’m no longer chained to my phone like I used to be. With the app, I spend maybe 20 minutes a day checking in, responding to anything that truly needs my attention, and making sure things are flowing smoothly. And then? Back to enjoying my holiday and turning my attention to the family and making memories.

It’s a massive relief to know that even when I’m not “in the office,” potential leads are still being followed up on, my calendar is still booking appointments, and my clients are being looked after. Automation isn’t just about making things easier when away from the office - it’s about giving you the freedom to focus on what matters every single day, whether that’s business growth or that elusive work life balance.

But Let’s Be Honest, It’s Not All Perfect

Let’s keep it real, automation isn’t some magical fix-all. It takes time to set up the right systems. You have to tweak things, sometimes even stumble through a few glitches, and get to a place where everything runs like clockwork for your unique business. And yes, there are moments when you need to step in manually. I’ve had my fair share of curveballs while relaxing on the balcony, like when a client urgently needs to talk. No system can handle everything on its own. But that’s fine, because with the daily admin handled, I’ve got more time to focus on the big stuff.

The key is balance. Automation won’t replace you, but it’ll definitely reduce the noise. It frees you up to focus on the strategic parts of your business, the parts that only you can handle while leaving the repetitive tasks to your automated team.

The Pros of Running a Business from the Beach

Before automation, I felt like my business was this fragile thing that needed constant care and attention, or it would crumble the second I looked away. But these days I can finally let go, just a little bit, and trust that the systems I’ve put in place will keep things moving forward.

I’m no longer constantly worried that leads are slipping through the cracks or that clients are feeling neglected. Instead, I know that my business is not just surviving but thriving while I take a much-needed break. And I can actually enjoy being away, knowing that everything’s under control.

It’s not just about giving myself a break, either. It’s about creating a business that can run without me having to be there 24/7. That’s the dream, right? To have a business that supports your lifestyle, not one that controls it.

The Cons (Because There Are Always Cons)

Of course, there are downsides. Let’s not pretend automation is foolproof. Setting it up takes time, and you’ll need to monitor things at first to make sure it’s all running smoothly. And, as I said, sometimes you just have to jump in to handle things that automation can’t. But these are small prices to pay for the freedom it gives you.

Of course I still check in with the app daily, but now it feels like a choice rather than a necessity. And while my “workcation” days aren’t completely over, they’re a lot less stressful. I’m not glued to my phone or stressed about what’s happening back at the office. I can actually try to unwind.

The Bottom Line

Running a business is hard work. But it doesn’t have to mean you can never step away. Automation lets you take that much-needed break without worrying that your business will fall apart in your absence. Whether it’s a quick check-in on the app or knowing that your clients are being looked after while you’re miles away, automation can give you the freedom to live your life and run your business.

So, as I sit here in the sun (and annoying wind) writing this, I’m reflecting on the holidays I've missed out on over the years whilst building my businesses and burning myself out. With the right tools, you can enjoy the best of both worlds, building something amazing while still living your life.

Trust me, it’s worth it. And now I'm helping you do the same.

Did someone say happy hour? Adiós my friends.