There are a lot of doula agency owners who wonder if they can really ever take a true vacation. But this summer, I did exactly that – I went out of the country with my family of four for over 2 weeks! This was the biggest trip we’ve taken with our kids (two teenage boys), because we wanted to fit in an amazing experience with them before we send our oldest off to college. It’s a huge turning point in our family’s life, and this was one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences we’ve had as a family. I wanted to ensure my role as a doula agency owner didn’t get in the way of that – and it didn’t.
What 18 Days Away Actually Looked Like
Believe it or not, I planned only two check-in times during the entire trip. And when I checked in? There was barely anything for me to handle – a few minor questions to answer, that honestly if I couldn’t be reached, could have been taken care of without me.
Here’s the part that really drove home this accomplishment for me: one of my part-time assistants was really just freshly trained. But she was able to meet the occasion. Not because she had years of experience or had seen and done it all before. But because the systems we have in place are clear, simple, and easy to follow. The Operations Manual was there when she needed it. So she didn’t need me.
The Response That Made My Trip
My favorite part (other than the vacation itself, duh!) was when I thanked my small staff for helping me have a worry-free vacation with my family. Here’s the response I received:
That was so gratifying to hear. Because after over 10 years of running an agency, I’ve not only learned the importance of building a business that is sustainable and protects the owner’s quality of life… but I’ve successfully made it happen.
Why Hiring Alone Won’t Get You There
In another post, I’ll share exactly what kind of support I’ve hired to be able to do this. But in this post I wanted to focus on the fact that without the systems and the SOP’s (standard operating procedures) we have put in place, hiring and delegating would not have the same value.
In fact, I see a lot of agency owners over-hiring: paying for too many hours and/or too many positions. In other words, if their systems were streamlined or automated, those people could do those same jobs in fewer hours.
I came back from vacation inspired to help more doula agency owners get more of their time and freedom back. If you’re ready to start building the doula agency systems and structures that make real time off possible – and even make your time at work more gratifying – I’m launching a new offer to help you do just that. Click here to join the waitlist if you’re interested in learning more!
Here’s hoping you’re planning some of your own vacation time very soon!