Today’s workforce operates in so much more balance than my generation. They don’t buy into the idea of delaying gratification and quality of life until some vague point in the future.
Admirable, for sure. But also, annoying when my generation thinks we need them to work the way we did.
With summer beginning, how about we all put that aside and learn something from that mindset instead? I invite you to schedule and take your summer vacation. Plan one (or two) now if you have nothing definite on your calendar.
And when you go, vacation like you identify as Gen Z or a Millennial! That will help you more than any travel agent or your good friend ChatGPT.
What to Do Summer 2026
Whatever you end up planning, make sure to:
- Take advantage of the time and the flexibility you have earned.
- Make your happiness and interests the most important thing.
- Be a model for your own corporate culture.
- Plug into your life’s purpose.
- Identify who can handle your business in your absence.
How Vacations Make Money
Hardworking people in our industry can think taking a vacation feels like a luxury. Don’t fall into that trap. Make it a necessity instead.
Enjoying your success now means you won’t have to call in for a mental health day later – because you will have already taken yourself off the schedule.
The whole point of a vacation is to remove yourself from the routine, clear your mind, and re-invigorate yourself. I’ve seen it work that way countless times: when owners take a break, it helps them develop new and better ideas for their independent restaurant company when they return.
And what worked for them will work for you, too.
Over spring break, I took some time to go to Los Angeles, eat some incredible food in inspirational restaurants, and have some beach, pool, and museum time. I found an entirely new perspective on possibilities, and that perspective sticks with me even now.
It felt luxurious, but the break wasn’t a luxury; I brought back even more insight from it.
With all the countries, cities, beaches, and mountains in the world, where do you start? Some things to think about:
- Where have you really wanted to go but have not given yourself permission to do so?
- What do you want to do there that you have never done before? Don’t just repeat a previous vacation; have a new experience – either in a familiar place or someplace entirely new.
- How will you disconnect from business, your phone, and especially the evils of social media?
- What idea will pop into your head that is going to pay for your vacation 10 times over?
Your vacation will benefit you and your business. If you have trouble starting or don’t think it is a good idea to leave, read this again and deploy calculated risk to create a better approach.
