Nine in ten British entrepreneurs work on holiday, nearly half took only Four Days off last year

Small business owners are finding it increasingly difficult to take time off, with new research indicating that nine out of ten Brits continue to work during their holidays.

This trend, termed ‘downtime deficit’ by global travel and leisure company TUI, highlights that the majority of business owners manage only five days of annual leave each year, significantly less than the 17 days typically taken by those in 9-to-5 jobs.

Among those affected are two entrepreneurs who, despite their love for their work, are striving to achieve a better work-life balance this year.

By sharing their experiences, they hope to inspire others to set aside work and prioritize much-needed rest.

Tom Plumridge, a 32-year-old self-employed builder from Buckinghamshire, hasn’t had a two-week holiday since he was 21.

New research shows that nine out of ten small business owners in the UK work during holidays, with most taking just five days off annually. Entrepreneurs Tom Plumridge and Zavia share their struggles to find a better work-life balance amidst the pressures of self-employment. — *Self-employed builder from BuckinghamshireTom Plumridge. (Picture: Jam Press)*

Although he appreciates the freedom of being his own boss, the long hours have taken their toll, and the impending arrival of his first child has prompted a reevaluation of his priorities.

“As an entrepreneur, you never really switch off. There’s always something on my mind,” he explains. “Holidays seem almost impossible to enjoy because I’m constantly worried about losing work or being replaced by another builder who hasn’t gone on holiday.

But with a baby on the way, my priorities have changed. Once the baby arrives, I need to take time away with my family to create memories.”

Tom acknowledges the benefits of self-employment, such as working on his own terms and meeting new people, but the need to adjust his approach to work-life balance has become more pressing.

Similarly, Zavia, a self-employed personal trainer from Manchester, is deeply invested in her clients’ well-being, often to the detriment of her own.

Passionate about helping people improve their health, she finds it challenging to prioritize her needs. “Helping people is my life,” she says. “I enjoy working for myself and being able to help people the way I want. It’s fulfilling, but exhausting with long days.

One client even overcame health and fertility issues through training. I’m always in their corner, which means I often neglect my own needs.”

Although Zavia travels occasionally for work, she rarely disconnects completely. She recalls a recent solo trip to Portugal where, despite enjoying a hike and some sightseeing, she spent a significant amount of time on her phone.

This mirrors TUI’s findings that 97% of entrepreneurs work during their holidays, with a third working an average of four hours daily while on leave.

The study also reveals that almost half of entrepreneurs are so passionate about their businesses that they struggle to disconnect.

However, 18% strongly agree that taking time off helps reset their goals, and 14% wish they could take more holidays. Alarmingly, 45% took only 3-4 days off last year, and 65% had to cancel their leave due to work commitments.

Despite the challenges, Zavia finds the trade-off worthwhile but acknowledges the need for balance.

“Seeing the instant changes in my clients and hearing them say it’s the best they’ve ever looked is rewarding. But seeing others fully relax on holiday makes me realize the importance of taking time to recharge, which is why TUI’s campaign is so crucial.”

To support small business owners like Tom and Zavia, TUI is offering a chance to win a much-needed holiday. Nominations for deserving entrepreneurs can be made at www.tui.co.uk/content/downtime-deficit until June 8, 2024, with holidays redeemable over three years.

Andrew Flintham, managing director of TUI UK&I, emphasizes the importance of breaks for everyone, including hardworking entrepreneurs. “We believe everyone deserves a break, whether it’s relaxing on a beach with emails on do not disturb or exploring a new city. We’re thrilled to offer deserving entrepreneurs a well-overdue trip and encourage nominations for those going above and beyond in their business endeavors.”