Juggling Business and Half Term: Finding the Balance

It’s half term again, and that familiar question rolls around — how do we fit it all in?

Running a business is demanding at the best of times, but when the kids are off school, the plates start spinning faster. Some of us get one week, some two, and somehow we’re meant to keep clients happy, show up to meetings, and still make it feel like the holidays for our children.

For me, that means scheduling client work, keeping meetings on track, and still carving out time for pumpkin picking and a trip to a “secret” nuclear bunker (not so secret when you're following the tourist signs!).

And if I’m honest — I’m not great at cutting myself slack. I want to be the super business owner and super mum, but sometimes those expectations clash.

The Myth of “Doing It All”

As small business owners, we get used to wearing all the hats: bookkeeper, marketer, admin assistant, customer support, and boss — often all before 9 a.m.

Add parenting into the mix and the pressure ramps up. Social media doesn’t help, either — full of people who seem to manage business growth, day trips, spotless kitchens, and pumpkin-spice everything.

The truth is, no one does it all perfectly. The key is learning to do what matters most — and being okay with letting the rest slide, just a little.

The Importance of Working with Clients Who Respect Boundaries

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years is that the right clients make all the difference.

There was a time when I’d answer calls on my kids’ birthdays, reply to WhatsApp messages at 9 p.m., or receive a “???” ten minutes after not replying and still believe I was at fault for not replying quick enough, even if that was on a weekend! And truthfully, it left me exhausted.

Now, I choose to work with clients who understand that I’m a person — not a 24/7 service. They know I’ll give 100% during working hours, but they also respect that outside of those times, I’m with my family.

It’s not about being unhelpful; it’s about setting healthy boundaries. Because when clients respect your time, you show up better for them — focused, calm, and ready to deliver your best work.

If a client doesn’t value your boundaries, they’re not the right fit for your business — no matter how big the contract.

How I’m Managing Half Term (and Trying to Enjoy It)

1. Plan Ahead — But Stay Flexible

I’ve scheduled the key client work and meetings for quieter parts of the week. Anything non-urgent waits until after half term. Plans shift — and that’s okay.

2. Lower the Bar (Just a Bit)

This week isn’t about being perfect. Some emails might wait, dinner might be simple, and that’s fine.

3. Set Clear Work Blocks

I use short, focused work sessions — an hour here and there — instead of long days. Then I switch off fully for family time.

4. Be Present Where You Are

When I’m working, I focus on work. When I’m with the kids, I’m with the kids. It’s not about hours — it’s about being present in whichever role I’m in at that moment.

5. Celebrate the Little Wins

If the week ends with happy kids and happy clients (even if the house looks like a bomb site), that’s a win in my book.

Why This Matters

Running your own business gives you flexibility — but it also means the lines between work and home blur easily. Half term reminds us why we built that flexibility in the first place.

You don’t need to prove anything. Sometimes showing your kids what hard work looks like is as valuable as spending every hour with them. And sometimes, showing them that you can step back and enjoy life is even more important.

Here’s to all the business owners trying to do both — building something meaningful for your clients and creating memories with your families. You’re doing better than you think.

FAQs

How can small business owners set boundaries with clients?

Communicate availability clearly, set expectations early, and avoid responding out of hours unless it’s urgent.

What if a client doesn’t respect boundaries?

Stay professional, restate your working hours, and if it continues, consider whether that relationship is sustainable.

How can parents balance business and family time?

Prioritise key work, schedule family time intentionally, and accept that balance looks different each week.

Is it okay to turn off notifications after hours?

Absolutely — your wellbeing and family time are part of building a sustainable business.

What’s the benefit of working with clients who respect your time?

You can deliver higher-quality work, avoid burnout, and build long-term partnerships based on mutual respect.