Free Days
Several years ago, I learned about a concept called Free Days from Strategic Coach. (Strategic Coach is a coaching program for entrepreneurs developed by Dan Sullivan. I was attending the program for three years.) Free days are part of the Entrepreneur Time System developed by Mr. Sullivan. A free day is 24-hours being away from your business and not being connected in any way to the farm. The purpose is rejuvenation.
I was very diligent in protecting my free days at the start of the program, and over time, I have slipped into the old habits of checking emails and our business website on my sort-of-free days. I don’t consider myself a workaholic, but the business is always on my mind, and I rarely disengage entirely from the farm activities.
Several years ago, I took a week-long vacation to a remote cabin on a lakeside. I did have cell phone service, but I committed to staying disconnected from the business during that period. It was indeed a time of rest and recovery. I recall being energized by the experience and ability to take on the daily challenges of business ownership with outstanding clarity and energy. I have not been as diligent in those efforts since that time.
I commit myself to actual free days as I prepare to leave for a week-long getaway to a resort in Florida with my wife. We are about to go to the airport, and I have decided to leave my cell phone home. (My wife will have her phone for emergencies with our children.) I have packed a new notepad and pens with three books that I’ve been eager to read. We have no scheduled commitments during our stay. Our sole purpose is to rejuvenate and increase our connection as a couple.
As I left the farm yesterday, I told a longtime employee that I would leave my phone home for the entire trip. He said, “well if you can’t leave us for a week now, you’ll never be able to leave us for a week.” Comforting and wise words, to be sure.