Maximise Your Time Off in 2025: How to Stretch Your Leave Around UK Bank Holidays
Resource - Key dates to take off in 2025
One of the greatest perks of being your own boss is the freedom to set your own rules, and there’s no more asking for permission to take a holiday finally.
For me, the start of each year always includes an important dedicated moment to sit down and plan how I can maximize my time off for the year ahead. By strategically aligning my holidays with UK bank holidays, I’ve discovered how to enjoy extended breaks while minimizing the impact on my work and income.
Taking leave isn’t just about booking time off, it’s about creating the space you need to rest, recharge, and thrive. As therapists, we use our minds and emotional reserves in day-to-day work, making intentional breaks essential for our well-being and longevity in the profession.
Why Annual Leave Matters for Therapists
1. Prevent Burnout
The emotional nature of our work can lead to fatigue if we don’t allow ourselves time to step back. Regular holidays allow you to replenish your mental and emotional energy, leaving you better equipped to support your clients. For more on burnout check out
her substack, books and our Q&A
2. Maintain Work-Life Balance
Taking planned leave ensures you have quality time to nurture your relationships, explore hobbies, or just relax. It’s the ultimate act of self-care for therapists juggling the demands of private practice.
3. Model Healthy Boundaries
When you prioritise taking time off, you’re not just helping yourself but setting an example for your clients. Showing that self-care is non-negotiable reinforces the importance of healthy boundaries in all areas of life.
Strategic Leave Planning: Why It’s a Game-Changer
By aligning your holidays with bank holidays, you can make the most of your annual leave without disrupting your practice. This approach allows you to:
Enjoy longer breaks without using as many leave days.
Keep your practice running smoothly by minimizing cancellations and rescheduling.
Stay refreshed and present for your clients by scheduling regular, meaningful time off.
My Annual Leave
I take out my calendar at the start of each year and mark all the UK bank holidays. Then, I map out where I can combine these public holidays with annual leave to create extended breaks. This process ensures that I don’t miss opportunities to maximize my time off while keeping my practice organised.
Here are some tips to help you do the same:
Start Early
Plan your leave as soon as possible to secure the dates and give your clients plenty of notice.Think Ahead
Look at your schedule for busy periods and quieter times in your practice. Align your breaks with these patterns to reduce disruptions.Communicate Clearly
Let clients know your availability in advance and consider offering extra sessions before your leave to support those needing it.Prepare for Time Off
Set up an out-of-office response and provide clients with resources or emergency contacts, if necessary. This ensures your time off is truly restorative.
For members of Therapists Corner, I’ve done the hard work for you and put together these dates for your 2025 holiday calendar. See below