How to Take Time Off from Running Your Private Practice

Guilt and mess free.

Taking time off from running your private practice is essential for maintaining your mental and physical well-being. In this article, we’ll explore why time off is important, I’ll share my personal experience, and provide practical tips to help you schedule, budget, communicate with clients, and ensure your business keeps running smoothly while you’re away.

Why is Time Off Important?

Taking regular breaks is crucial to avoid burnout and maintain your overall health. As a therapist, your mind is your most valuable asset. It’s a tool you use for your job, and like any other business tool, it needs regular downtime and maintenance. Imagine never turning your computer off or plugging it in to recharge. Eventually, it would overheat, or the battery would fizzle out and become useless. The same goes for you!

As a self-employed professional, it’s easy to fall into the trap of letting go of clear boundaries and working longer hours, but this can lead to exhaustion and ill health. Working for yourself gives you so much freedom and flexibility – don’t forget to make the most of it!

My Experience of Taking Time Off

Personally, taking time off has been vital for my well-being. Prior to setting up my private practice, I had worked in the NHS for 15 years. At the time of leaving, I was entitled to 10 weeks off each year, and I always enjoyed them guilt-free. Working for myself was a very different experience. Until I got used to it, taking time off was quite scary.

Initially, I struggled with guilt and the fear my practice would suffer, referrals would decline, and clients would fall away. On top of this, I worried about not being paid whenever I stepped away.

However, with careful planning, I found my business could thrive even in my absence. Giving myself permission to rest allowed me to return with renewed energy and focus. It continues to play a crucial role in maintaining my passion for delivering therapy so I can keep showing up for my clients and be the therapist I want to be.

Paid subscribers - Continue reading for 8 Tips to Help You Take Time Off