It’s a catch-22 situation.

You are a small business owner and want things done in a particular way, you sort out all of the problems and you’re responsible for all of the decisions – that’s why a short break, holiday or indulging in a hobby is firmly at the bottom of the to-do list, you just don’t have the time to indulge because you’re too busy managing all of the day-to-day detail that makes your business run. But what if holding on to those tasks yourself means not only that you don’t get a well-earned break, but also that you’re holding your business back?

Step away from the day-to-day tasks

As a business owner, letting go of certain aspects of your business can be very daunting but taking a step back from day to day tasks will free up your time to become more strategic and lead your business through its next stage of growth. It will allow you the time to train employees so that they can be trusted to get tasks done and empower them to voice improvements and new ideas whilst enabling you to focus on the bigger picture. It’s another win-win and it’s the difference between working in or working on your business.

Taking this step back and empowering your staff not only has a knock on effect for you (in terms of allowing you the time to take the business forward) but for your staff too – according to research from the Cranfield University, 60% of staff in senior roles at small firms left within 2 years due to frustration. This scenario is a waste of time and effort for all parties concerned so to allow your business to grow, you will need to build an infrastructure, with the proper systems and processes, and you will need to hire the right people with the right attitude that you can trust to just get on with it.

You need to ensure that their environment is motivating and that they feel valued and part of the bigger picture by challenging them, rewarding them and keeping them (and the business) focused and on track.

Empowering your employees allows you the time to think and plan which leads us to the final point.

The research from Cranfield University also reveals that 66% of owner managed companies don’t have a written plan. This is just a recipe for disaster right from the beginning since planning helps to map the future of the business, supports business growth and direction and helps to secure funding in those early years.

The first step is to recognise that you can’t do everything, there are just not enough hours in the day. Take positive steps to empower the right people, train them, motivate them, trust them and reward them and allow yourself to take a well-deserved break.