Ever wondered if it’s really possible to step away from your business and return without losing momentum, or worse, your clients? Whether it’s a planned sabbatical, maternity leave, or an unexpected emergency, preparing to step away from your business takes more than just an out-of-office message.
This episode of Tique Talks pulls back the curtain on what it really looks like to take a break and how to do it without sacrificing everything you’ve built.
Listen now to hear our no-BS take on leaves of absence, client retention, and system-building that actually supports you.
Yes, You Can Step Away From Your Business
Let’s face it: burnout is real, and 2025 hasn’t exactly been light. From caregiving responsibilities to personal health to just needing a damn break, stepping back is often less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
But here’s the kicker, too many travel advisors fear that even a brief pause means lost income, disappointed clients, or irreparable damage to their brand. Spoiler: It doesn’t have to.
The Fears Are Valid But Not Fatal
There’s a reason this episode had a two-episode outline packed into one. We hear it all the time:
- “I’m scared I’ll lose my best clients.”
- “What if I fall behind?”
- “Will I look unprofessional?”
Here’s the truth:
- You might lose clients—and that’s okay. You can always gain new ones.
- Falling behind is often just an ego metric, not a revenue one.
- Looking unprofessional only happens when there’s no communication.
As we shared on the show, humans respect human nature. If you’re honest and proactive, your clients will stick with you, even admire you more.
Planned Leave? Start Here
If you’re heading into a planned leave like maternity, paternity, or a sabbatical, timing is everything.
Before you go, make sure you clearly communicate your leave dates and expectations with clients. Add your out-of-office dates to your email signature early, and prep an FAQ resource that outlines exactly how clients will be supported during your absence. Keep suppliers in the loop about your availability and ensure your automations are ready to deliver pre-scheduled nurture emails, payment reminders, and travel documents. And above all, if you anticipate client travel during your leave, consider either referring them to a peer or keeping them on your books with a clear backup plan in place. When done correctly, these simple steps send a powerful message: professionalism doesn’t stop just because you do.
What About Unexpected Leave?
Life happens. A sudden illness or family emergency doesn’t wait for your Q4 strategy session.
That’s why every advisor—yes, even solopreneurs—needs these 4 emergency essentials in place now:
- SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures):
Document your workflows so someone else can step in seamlessly. - Password Bank:
Use a secure tool like LastPass to store logins. Share emergency access with one trusted person. - Organized Client Files:
If it’s in your head, it doesn’t count. Keep CRM notes up to date and easy to find. - Trusted Supplier Relationships:
Work with DMCs who can support your clients directly when needed.
Want a checklist that covers this and more? Download the SOP Checklist to start building your leave plan today.
Reentry Doesn’t Have to Feel Like Whiplash
The most overlooked part of a leave is the return.
Instead of jumping straight into client calls and inbox overload, build a ramp-up plan:
- Block off a “transition week” to review accounts and systems
- Reach out to top clients first
- Audit what’s working, what’s not, and where you want to grow
Taking a break often gives you clarity on what no longer serves you. Don’t be afraid to shift your client roster or business model as you reenter.
Final Thought: Boundaries Are Professional
Don’t think of stepping away as selfish. Think of it as strategic.
If you charge your value, prioritize your systems, and communicate with confidence, then stepping away won’t break your business and could even make it stronger in the long run.
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