The Dog Days..

As July rapidly draws to a close we will soon enter what are often referred to as the “dog days” of summer in August. Traditionally, it’s vacation time, Europe basically shuts down, etc. Different in places like China, where more people take time off around New Year’s in January and February. But this year is different. Many have canceled vacations or are taking shorter ones. What’s it like to have August where you’re not just getting ready for and then going crazy coming back from vacation? I don’t know. Probably it will be calmer. Well I hope not actually as things are beginning to really pick up business wise. Whether or not you get a real vacation, try to take a little time this summer and just chill. Read a book. Play some golf or tennis. Enjoy an evening out with a loved one.  Crochet something. Take a nice nap. Play with your kid’s video games. Or just play with your kid! Also, while you’re at it, take some time to show appreciation for those who help you in business, whether it’s your employees, customers, vendors, etc.

I write about entrepreneurship for Slate.com’s small business site at bizbox.slate.com. I write often about the risk of burnout that any hardworking person has.  Life’s a marathon, not a sprint (says the guy now 49 years into that marathon). No one on their deathbed ever said, “I wish I spent more time at the office.” You can and should have passion and drive to achieve success in whatever business you are in. But if you leave behind what’s important, what do you have then? And the downtime also gives you some perspective on the business side of things. Helps you think a bit more clearly than in the daily rush.

So whatever you are doing, try to enjoy the dog days…

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