What Happens When You Can’t Work? A Solo-Entrepreneur’s Guide to Stepping Away

When you own your own business, you carry a lot on your shoulders. You’re the one doing the actual work, plus the strategic planning, forecasting, scheduling, marketing, answering emails, returning calls, managing finances, and everything in between. Most of the time, we’re able to keep it all moving. But what happens when life interrupts your plans?

I recently had shoulder surgery and suddenly had to step back for at least a week. That forced me to think through how the work would get done and how I could make sure my clients still felt supported. And honestly, it’s not just emergencies that challenge us. Planning a vacation can feel just as stressful when you run a one-person shop.

If you’ve been there, you know exactly what I mean. If you haven’t yet, you will eventually. Here are some of the key lessons I am learning and the strategies that are helping me stay organized and keep my clients informed and taken care of; and I would love to hear anyone else’s thoughts on this subject.

Communicate Early, Clearly, and Confidently

Your clients don’t need all the personal details. They simply need to know what to expect. Let them know as soon as you can, ideally a couple of weeks ahead of time. Keep the message professional and straightforward: “I’ll be out of the office for a short time, and I’ve prepared everything, so your project continues smoothly.”

Give the exact dates you are unavailable and clarify when they can expect a response from you. This kind of calm, confident communication reassures clients that you’ve planned and that their needs are a priority.

Prioritize What Needs To Be Done Before You Leave

Before stepping away, take a moment to look at everything on your plate. Make a simple list of active projects, deadlines, and upcoming commitments. Identify what must be completed before you go and what can wait until you return. It also helps to complete any quick tasks that would otherwise pile up while you’re gone. A little preparation can make a big difference in how smoothly things run.

Delegate or Outsource When Necessary

If you have team members, assign tasks and make sure each person knows exactly what they’re responsible for while you are out of the office. If you’re truly solo, you might consider bringing in short-term help. A trusted contractor can handle urgent items, a virtual assistant can help manage your inbox, or you might rely on a colleague for a specific project. If someone else will be assisting your clients, introduce them ahead of time so everyone feels comfortable.

Use Technology To Keep Things Moving

Automation can make your time away much easier. Set up auto-responses with clear expectations, block out time on your calendar for catching up when you return, and make sure your project management tools are updated. You can also schedule emails, posts, and even invoices ahead of time so the business continues to function without you monitoring it every minute. Yes, this does take some time to prepare but it will be worth it.

Set Boundaries You Can Keep

Decide ahead of time how connected you want to be while you’re away. I’m a doer so for me this can be challenging, just ask my friends! Some people prefer not to check messages at all, others check once a day, and some only respond to true emergencies. Whatever you choose, communicate that boundary in your out-of-office message and try your best to stick to it. Consistency helps your clients trust your process.

Prepare an Emergency Plan

Even a short-written plan can help. Identify what qualifies as an urgent issue, who clients can contact if they need help, and how quickly you will be able to respond. This gives clients peace of mind and shows that you have thought through the possibilities.

Provide Clients with What They Need Before You Go

Share any documents, drafts, updates, or summaries they might need while you’re away. Make sure they know where each project stands and what will happen next. If a quick check-in call helps tie up loose ends, offer it. When clients understand the plan, they feel supported and confident.

Give Yourself Buffer Days

Try not to schedule meetings right before you leave or immediately after you return. This was tough for me and in hindsight I should have scheduled these days before my surgery, and it is one reason it’s on this tip list now. Use the time before your break to wrap up loose ends and the time after to get caught up, clean out your inbox, and ease back into your routine. That little bit of space makes your transition much smoother.

Remember That You’re Human

Running a business doesn’t mean you have to be available every second of every day. Whether you’re dealing with an unexpected situation or taking a well-deserved vacation, stepping away is part of maintaining a healthy, sustainable business. When you manage it with preparation and professionalism, your clients will continue to trust and respect the work you do.

And because it is the Holiday season I had to put my Christmas tree in October because I wouldn't be able to otherwise. Planning is the key!