Letting Go: The Hardest Skill in Business
The Hardest Skill in Business, and How I Took a Week Off and Fully Disconnected
Last week, I did something I haven’t done in a very long time-I completely disconnected from work and took a week-long cruise. No emails. No calls. No “just checking in.” For eight whole days, I allowed myself to relax, recharge, and enjoy the view from the deck without worrying about what might be happening back at the office.
And you know what?
The business didn’t just survive without me… it thrived.
Built on Trust
Being able to step away so fully didn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of years of intentional work-building strong systems, refining processes, and most importantly, investing in a team I trust wholeheartedly.
Every member of my staff brings dedication, skill, and pride to their work. They know our values, our standards, and our clients. They make sound decisions because they’ve been empowered to. I trust them because they’ve earned that trust time and time again.
Walking up the gangway of that ship, I knew everything at home was in capable hands. That peace of mind is priceless.
Systems That Support People
People often think success comes from finding the “right” employees or the “perfect” manager. And while great people matter, what truly sets a business free is building systems that allow great people to succeed.
Over the years, we have developed:
• Clear procedures for day to day operations
• Training programs so staff feel confident and capable
• Tools and checklists that remove guesswork
• Communication channels that keep the team aligned
• A culture where accountability is part of who we are
These systems don’t replace the humans doing the work-they support them. They make it easier for staff to step up, own their roles, and deliver consistently excellent results.
Disconnecting to Reconnect
As the ship set out to sea, my phone went into airplane mode-and stayed there. It was surreal at first. When you run a business, you get used to being constantly “on,” constantly reachable, constantly aware of what might need your attention.
But after a day or two, something amazing happened:
– I stopped thinking about work.
– I trusted my team, and that trust gave me permission to rest. To laugh. To spend time with my cruise buddies. To enjoy a mocktail at sunset without mentally drafting tomorrow’s to do list.
– I came back refreshed, inspired, and incredibly proud.
Gratitude for a Team That Makes It Possible
If there’s a message, I hope other business owners take away from this, it’s this:
Freedom comes from building a business that doesn’t depend on you being there every second of every day.
It takes time. It takes effort. But it’s worth it.
To my team: thank you for the high-quality work you do, for the trust you’ve built with me, and for giving me the space to step away and return stronger.
And to anyone reading this who dreams of taking a break, know that it is possible. With the right systems, the right training, and the right people, your business can run beautifully… even when you’re out at sea.
Tashly Consulting Xero Bookkeepers Adelaide are Registered BAS Agents #86318001, and we are dedicated to providing seamless, high-quality, transparent bookkeeping services – If you would like any further information please contact us via telephone (08) 8121 4424 or via email to discover how the multi-award-winning team at Tashly Consulting can help you better manage your business bookkeeping.
Tashly Consulting Xero Bookkeepers Adelaide – Not your average Bean Counter!
Disclaimer: All or any advice contained in this blog/newsletter is of a general nature only & may not apply to your individual business circumstances. For specific advice relating to your specific situation, please contact your accountant or other professional adviser for further discussion.
Images by Xero | Edited by @tashlydesign
