How To Rest Without A Vacation As A Black Woman Entrepreneur

Even though, statistically and culturally, Black women are leading the charge as the most dynamic force in American entrepreneurship, they are the ones that face the greatest barriers to rest, funding, and recognition. From 2019 to 2023, the number of businesses owned by Black women grew by 32.7% — almost three times the growth rate of women-owned businesses overall, which rose by 12.1%. 

Entrepreneurs struggle to take time off. In fact, 47% of small business owners take fewer than five days of vacation time annually. And, to no surprise, women entrepreneurs, especially those of color, struggle even more. Systemic burnout is no joke as 41% of Black women in corporate roles report feeling “always on” compared to 27% of white women. 

This is why, unable to take vacations, Black women have resorted to “soft launching” their summers, taking mini breaks throughout the day to keep burnout at bay. 

I’m not here to tell you that you have to take a vacation, I understand it can be hard when you’re juggling multiple things at once, especially starting, growing, or maintaining your own business. First off, congratulations for being a boss. Now, let’s take a look at some ways you can take your summer from “soft launched” to “wow, it really feels like I just took a vacation.” 

Summer Fridays are a staple in many businesses across the country and that’s because they work. Sixty-six percent of workers say Summer Fridays boost their productivity and 77% agree it improves their work-life balance. 

“Rest is not a reward; it’s a right,” said Tricia Hersey, founder of The Nap Ministry. “Black women deserve to rest without apology or justification.”

Tricia urges Black women to treat themselves to mini breaks like an extended lunch or a beauty appointment during the day to find calm to recharge throughout the busy week. 

“I want to see more Black women take sabbaticals — call them mini career breaks,” said Cinneah Al‑Amin, corporate strategist and advocate for rest. “We work too damn hard… we don’t take enough time off.”

Obviously you might not be in a place to want or be able to “take a sabbatical” but the sentiment remains the same: you deserve to disconnect from work and focus on other things that make you happy. Spending time with friends and family is a great way to get your mind off of the daily grind and doing so outside of town can help you get that restful feeling without having to travel. Research found that individuals who regularly spend time with their loved ones discover healthier ways to cope with stress. 

Forget what you can’t do and focus on what is available to you. Getting some nice face masks, soaking your feet, taking a warm bath, painting your nails, are all easy things you can do at home that will leave you feeling refreshed and relaxed. 

Figure out what your version of a home spa day looks like and when you’re feeling overwhelmed or close to burnout schedule it ahead of time to have something to look forward to. 

“Digital detoxes offer a chance to recharge, refocus, and reconnect with the world around us,” said LaKisha Mosley, event producer and mental health advocate. “As entrepreneurs in a digital world, unplugging regularly is essential — not just for our business’s success but for our personal well‑being.”

Adding a digital detox window in your day or week can help you feel more focused when you are online, improve your mental health, sleep, and personal connections. LaKisha suggests designating tech-free times and zones in your home to promote disconnection. 

The beauty of being an entrepreneur is being your own boss and you owe it to yourself to find breaks within the grind for your general well-being.