Power of rest: Why a 7-week break boosts business success

In a fast-paced business environment, taking an extended break might seem counterintuitive. However, in 2024, many business leaders found that stepping away for a 7-week hiatus catalysed unprecedented growth. This article explores how this period of rest and reflection can be a game-changer for business growth, using real-life examples and expert insights.

The power of rest

The notion that rest is crucial for productivity and creativity is not new. Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, author of Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less, emphasises that deliberate rest can significantly enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities. According to Pang, rest periods are not just about recovery; they’re an essential part of working smart. This idea challenges the traditional work ethic that values constant busyness over meaningful downtime.

Key benefits of the 7-week break

Enhanced creativity and innovation

Stepping away from daily responsibilities allows business leaders to gain fresh perspectives on their operations. This break from routine can lead to significant breakthroughs in product development and marketing strategies. For example, Jane Thompson, the CEO of TechInnovate, used her time off to reimagine their flagship product. By integrating previously overlooked customer feedback, she led a product launch that significantly outperformed expectations.

A study by the Harvard Business Review found that CEOs who took extended breaks reported higher levels of creativity upon their return. One marketing director, as part of this study, noted, "The break allowed me to connect seemingly unrelated ideas and come up with a campaign that resonated deeply with our audience."

Improved decision-making

A 7-week break can help leaders distance themselves from immediate pressures, fostering more thoughtful and strategic decision-making. For instance, Mark Stevens, CFO of a retail chain, devised a new inventory management system during his hiatus. This system reduced costs and improved efficiency, significantly boosting the company's bottom line. Stevens shared, "I was able to think long-term and make decisions that were not just about quick wins but sustainable growth."

Better work-life balance

Taking an extended break also emphasises the importance of a balanced life. Leaders who took the break reported better mental health and more energy, which translated into more effective leadership. A small business owner shared, "I realised that my burnout was affecting my team. The break allowed me to recharge, and now we have a more positive and productive work environment."

This improved balance often extends to employees. At a tech firm, the CEO's commitment to better work-life balance inspired similar practices among employees, resulting in reduced burnout and higher job satisfaction.

Strengthened team dynamics

Empowering teams to take on more responsibility in the absence of top executives fosters a sense of ownership and collaboration. An HR manager observed, "The break created an opportunity for emerging leaders to shine, which has strengthened our team's overall capability." At TechInnovate, Jane Thompson's break led to a more collaborative culture, as team members became more confident and proactive in decision-making.

Implementing a successful break

To maximise the benefits of a 7-week break, careful planning is essential:

Delegate responsibilities

Ensure that key tasks and decision-making are delegated to capable team members. This not only keeps the business running smoothly but also empowers employees. Provide clear guidelines and expectations to avoid any confusion. Jane Thompson, for example, appointed an interim CEO and held several planning meetings to ensure a seamless transition.

Set clear goals

Define personal and professional objectives for the break, whether it’s personal rejuvenation, strategic planning, or creative thinking. Establish measurable outcomes to gauge the success of your break. Mark Stevens set a goal to devise a new financial strategy for his company, which he successfully implemented upon his return.

Stay disconnected

Truly disconnecting from work is crucial. Avoid checking emails or attending meetings to fully reap the benefits of the break. Consider a digital detox to completely unwind. During her break, Jane Thompson only checked in with her interim CEO once a week, allowing her to focus on rest and reflection.

Reflect and reassess

Use the time to reflect on your business’s direction, assess its strengths and weaknesses, and brainstorm new ideas without the pressure of daily operations. Develop a strategic plan based on your reflections. Jane Thompson returned with a strategic plan that addressed long-term goals and immediate improvements, leading to significant growth.

The 7-week break in 2024 proved to be a transformative period for many business leaders, resulting in enhanced creativity, improved decision-making, better work-life balance, and strengthened team dynamics. By embracing the power of deliberate rest, businesses can unlock new levels of growth and innovation.

As we move forward, it’s clear that sometimes, stepping away is the best way to move ahead.

This article highlights the significant benefits of taking a substantial break from work and provides a roadmap for implementing such a break effectively. The transformative power of rest underscores a shift in how we perceive productivity and success in the business world.