All Work and No Play…Will Slow Your Business Growth!
July 18th 2009 -
All Work and No Play…Will Slow Your Business Growth!Yeah, you read that right, all work and no rest can actually slow your business growth!
No matter how hard you seem to work, you just appear to be taking one step forward and two steps back. You either run out of time, ideas or quite simply get bored and your mind begins to wander!
Yet, you keep pushing yourself harder and harder as you see it as the only way out, and you absolutely do NOT want to fail!
Is this all sounding a little familiar?
Well, if it does, you are not alone!
Too many people are missing out on that one vital part of business that helps you succeed with EVERY part of your business and it is something soooo simple, yet often seen as a ‘waste of time’.
Quite simply it is called ‘taking a break’, take some time out from your every day routine to give your body time to re-charge the old batteries, so to speak!
You will find that when you return, you will be totally refreshed, full of creative ideas and quite possibly, have a whole new outlook on your business, that may have not been there when you were ’stressed out’ and ‘running on empty’ before your break.
Now I’m not saying just drop everything and shoot off to a sunny island somewhere, try to plan your break around your business and take as little work with you as you possibly can.
For example, 2 weeks ago I went to sunny Cyprus with my lovely wife Katie and all I took regarding business was my iPhone, I was still able to send out an important broadcast from my iPhone, which you may have seen called ‘Mass Article Control‘
This was not planned or pre-loaded, just one of those ’spur of the moment’ things that I thought would really help my subscribers, and from the feedback I got back, It really DID help a lot of people out!
Actually, I quite enjoyed writing the email, here is a pic of me actually writing it by the pool, and yes, that is my foot!
As you can see, it was hardly stressful!
So that’s the work part of my break out of the way, let’s get onto the fun part!
I want to say a very big THANKS to ‘Socrates Soratous‘ who took time out from ‘taking HIS break’ to come and visit me while I was there.
We had a great time chatting over a few cold beers and it was great to talk face to face with a TOP marketer that I have been in contact with for a long time.
Here is a pic of us both, I’m the sunburnt one! 
During my ‘break’ I also found that I love water skiing(among other water sports), I have never tried water skiing before, or any kind of skiing for that matter!
Here’s a pic of me starting out on the side of the boat on a pole, expecting to be dragged along face down:
Well, in fact the very first time the boat took off I DID get dragged along face down! I was kinda expecting it to gradually increase speed, oh how wrong was I:
10 minutes later, I was hanging on for dear life by a rope at the back of the boat, but really loving it!
>>Take a look at the short video here <<
I know the video is quite short, but to be honest I was not skiing for that long as my arms were fading from what felt like being pulled along by a rocket.
Yes, I was a tad sore the next day, but thoroughly enjoyed it!
One last pic here is just a view from my balcony, which in itself I found very relaxing:
OK, so as I was saying at the start of this post, if you simply work yourself into the ground, it will not necessarily be beneficial, in fact it could really slow your business down.
Make sure you schedule some time off, no matter how busy you think you are. It does not have to be anywhere exciting, just away from work and relaxing.
Don’t be scared to ask for help if you need it, I personally had to ask my good friend Daniel Sumner to help out while I was away, even though he was outstretched himself at the time, he still made time for me. (Thanks Dan!)
You should know yourself when you are in need of a break, you may feel run down, tired, out of energy or even anxious or stressed, if you are, then it’s time for a break.
If you are just too busy, keep reminding yourself every single day that you need to shedule that break in, and don’t give up on yourself until it is set in stone.
I hope this post has helped you realize the importance of rest and taking a break and maybe even give you a little insight into my personal life.
Please comment below, I would love to see pics of YOUR break, or it you just need to talk, say ‘hi’!
Talk soon,
Dave Nicholson.
July 18th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
If I had the time, I would have read your article!
You obviously had a great time. Nice one.
Best wishes
Mike
http://www.mike-mott.com
July 18th, 2009 at 5:52 pm
Well, looks like you had a nice time, but a real break would have meant COMPLETE UNPLUG from the mobile eh? Is it possible? Yes, I have done it!
Best wishes.
Tony
July 18th, 2009 at 6:17 pm
Hey Dave
Looks like an awesome break you had there mate!
Awesome you linked up with Soc too – that guy is ONE legend right?
Good point you make in your post though – taking breKS AND MORE IMPORTANTLY scheduling BREAKS IN YOUR MONTHLY PLAN is key isn’t it?
You feel more energised to return to woek, it’s just like the Friday feeling aint it?
I’m off on my scheduled break to the beer garden later – so until then, take it easy and great post!
Regards dude
Ray Johnson
July 18th, 2009 at 6:20 pm
Hi Dave
You’re dead right about needing to take time out and it looks like you had a great time.
Cool pics…
cheers
Steve
July 18th, 2009 at 6:25 pm
Looks like you had a great time, Dave. And how unusual to see you with a pint in your hand, considering you’re not much of a drinker
Px
July 18th, 2009 at 6:49 pm
Hi Dave,
Well it looks like you had a fantastic holiday and survived the dunking….I mean water skiing.
As far as I could tell, Dan did a great job for you…..Maybe you can afford to relax more often knowing things did not fall apart while you were partying.
Thanks for sharing with us.
Jay Mueller
JayLynne Enterprises
July 18th, 2009 at 7:08 pm
what a lovely place
July 18th, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Hey Steve,
Yeah, it was excellent thanks!
Cheers
Dave.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Hey Tony,
Yeah, I know what you are saying, but I was only looking at personal stuff, even if it did lead me to creating an email!
What can I say, I enjoy my work!
Dave.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:27 pm
Haha, cheers Paula!
I was forced into it … really!
Dave.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
It’s OK, Dave, I was only pulling your leg, to see more in the next photo!!!
My Mum and Dad had a little code “DTTS” which meant “Don’t take too seriously” – so whenver they got a bit stroppy, they wouod remind each other!
Many thanks for your helpful stuff. I’ve just got MAC which looks AMAZING – those guys rock!
I’m serious about the Photo coaching, incidentally, happy to give personal tutorial time via Skype / phone each month…
July 18th, 2009 at 7:30 pm
Hey Jay,
I tell you man, being dragged by a speed boat face down ‘aint nice, it MAKES you learn fast!
I don’t want to relax too much … I have loads to do!
Cheers,
Dave.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Hey Tony,
I had to edit all the ‘juicy’ stuff
Yeah, apple is gonna rule the world one day!
Cheers for the photo offer, I’ll have a think about it!
Dave.
July 18th, 2009 at 7:38 pm
NOT APPLE MAC, I’m not that rich!
I meant the Mass Article Creator by Adeel C.
http://www.massarticlecontrol.com
LOL – keep smiling!
July 18th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Hi Dave,
Looks like a cool time , and like you said in the post you do need time away from business matters, to be refreshed and raring to go and with a recharged mind as the ideas flood the gates quicker and easier, as regards to Socrates i`m a member of his “Master Resell Fortune” membership site, and from what i have expieriened i find him a very genuine and nice bloke, as a matter of fact i find you all very genuine and very helpful nice set of people as well in the masterclass course ,inspirational !
Cheers for the post Dave…Ed.
July 18th, 2009 at 8:20 pm
maybe one day i can join you
July 18th, 2009 at 8:46 pm
That’s the way to ski! Water sports are the best! I live in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico and I try to remember the paradise that I live in. I often get caught up in the struggle to create more and different income streams and forget to get out and play! Thanks for the inspiring post! I am watching you as you progress with your internet presence Dave and things are looking good. Keep it up!
Sincerely,
Dr. Lenny
July 18th, 2009 at 8:48 pm
Hi Dave,
What you did is “way” much better than a given advice from me to another marketer about how to escape from the computer and pay more attention to family – using a cook timer!
By the way, the above website is not my primary one. But it is exciting, though.
Best wishes to all,
PT
July 18th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
Hi Dave,
Great pics. I have been there (dragged through the water) when I was younger. I did manage to get up on the skis, eventually. Great thrill, until the boat decided to turn quickly causing me to go faster, and faster, and faster, until leaping through the air and crashing into the sea. On a serious note I find I have to have a change of environment at least twice per year. I do chill out, but, I also find new ideas creep into my head after a few days of doing very little and I cannot wait to get back to my computer, sad really. However, if I don’t get my breaks I become stale and my mind becomes a blank. To help me along my way I read “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne. Here you will find life changing “Secret Summaries” such as:- “Create your day in advance by thinking the way you want it to go, and you will create your life intentionally” and “Like Aladins Genie, the law of attraction grants our every command”
Best wishes
Eddie
July 18th, 2009 at 9:55 pm
Some break, that was a holiday. When I have time to work on the computer I take a smoke break every 90 minutes to clear my head.
July 18th, 2009 at 10:03 pm
Hi Dave
Great Pics, lovely place…
Bet you were well chuffed to meet up with Socrates, wish i’d been there:(
Anyway matey, back to work like the rest of us,lol
You are right about having a break though..
Julie
July 19th, 2009 at 12:36 am
Dave!
C’mon dude… Skiing involves snow.
What you are doing there is not called skiing.
It is called “Hanging on for dear life!”
Looks like you had a great time – I just got back
from Puerto Rico where we went horseback riding,
scuba diving, snorkeling, wave-running and a few
other things . .
It sure is good to get away for while. I agree completely!
Take Care!
O
July 19th, 2009 at 4:59 am
Thanks for sharing a slice of your personal life and the rewards you’ve earned for hard work put in previously. Gives those of us still at the beginning of the journey some encouragement. Thanks also for the video sales pages; I’m about ready to try one out.
Regards
Trish
July 19th, 2009 at 6:07 am
Hi Dave
Great message and a great reminder to everyone. My business growth really began to take off when I added play into my business on a regular basis. I highly recommend that everyone had FUN into their daily routine.
Karen
July 19th, 2009 at 6:11 am
Hi Dave,
You are absolutely right about taking a break and having some down time to rejuvinate. Good on you. These pictures would go nice in a “flippin book” which is a free plug in from wordpress. Check out my blog http://www.iwillgrowrich.com for an example of one on me taking a break in Cuba–and with some beers! All the best!
Cindy
ps I will need your help soon for getting my website I purchased from you up and running efficiently, more specifically putting my aweber opt-in box in it. Thanks and talk to you soon!
July 19th, 2009 at 6:53 am
Oh! great views love it!
Thanks for sharing with me your photos of your holidays, Dave.
I guess if you’ve established your business in IM successfully, you can afford the lifestyle of celebrities. Good on you Dave!
By the way, I am currently participating in Alex’ second coaching program, and bet if I could achieve success in this industry I will also be travelling there in Cyprus!
Cheers,
Nona
July 19th, 2009 at 7:48 am
Fantastic mate, you look like you had a great time. I 100% agree that you simply have to take time out from the usual workload.
That reminds me, I’m off to Benidorm on the 25th and while I will have my iphone with me if I use it for work purposes the missus will throw it in the pool
July 19th, 2009 at 8:19 am
You guys should all go to Vegas next week so I can buy you a drink.
(I mean a coke) LoL
July 19th, 2009 at 8:39 am
@ John T – Lol, so you are not even gonna look at a single email or post? Wanna bet another pint? Have a good time though!
@ Nona – I’m sure with Alex’s help you will be there in no time at all!
@ Karen – Hey Karen, thanks for sharing.
@ Trish – Hey Trish, you are very welcome, I am pleased that I can help.
@ Omar – Lol, You’re not wrong there dude! I went to Puerto Rico a few years ago, great place! I remember my hotel was on top of what seemed like a mountain! So what’s wave running then? Running along the shore?
@ Earnloads – Yeah it was great to meet up with Socrates, he really is a great guy with a great outlook on business.
@ Normz – Hey Normz, that’s cool, a break is a break!
@ Eddie – Hey Eddie, Awesome, thanks for sharing.
@ Dr. Lenny – Hi Dr. Lenny, yeah, it just goes to show, even with paradise on your doorstep it is easy to overlook your break, take it easy!
@ Derek – Do you think you will be able to fit in my suitcase?
@ John E – Yeah you are dead right, there are some of us out there that really DO care! Cheers!
@ Tony – Lol, sorry, my bad! Yeah, mass article control really is excellent.
July 19th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Hey Dave
Wow, my first blog visit here and seeing that great relaxing place. Sure leaves me with a good impression. Breaks are good for the soul….
Thanks for the refreshing moments,
Diz
July 19th, 2009 at 12:28 pm
Great advice Dave,
I usually wait too long before taking time off. I find myself not accomplishing anything because my mind can no longer concentrate. I probably waste so much time before I realize what is happening. I need to start scheduling specific times away from my desk.
Bob
July 19th, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Hi
Nice views special from you foot I still perfer the pint.
Good luck
John
July 19th, 2009 at 1:19 pm
Hi Dave,
Take up wakeboarding instead. Much more cool!
)
Sam
July 19th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
Hey Dave,
Looks like you had a fab time, have to agree with the timeout being essential …..
I will need to plan some myself, but got the nose to the grindstone at the moment !
Your pics cheered me up today …….
Speak soon
Tommy
July 19th, 2009 at 7:48 pm
Hi Dave
Great post, I’ve always wanted to go water skiing, I was on a jet Ski last year in Greece and had a quick trip on an banner boat as well, awesome fun…
I totally agree with you about taking time to relax, and recharge your batteries, I sometime never do it, but you hit the nail on the head, about you get a perspective on your business. for new ideas.
Thanks Dave
Danny
July 20th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Thanks Dave for the enlightening post. And, the pics were simply awesome!\
I think I’ll be recharging my batteries real soon…I need to get rid of the old to make room for the new.
July 20th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Well done Dave, true and nice post
I will head to Scottland end of August so I already make use of your advice. Hopefully, the weather will be a little bit nice… (Edinburgh Tattoo). You are soo right with the break! I did some uploading for 14 hours yesterday but am lazy today at our nice lake, just sun, bathing and good reading (not IM).
Also thanks a lot for the great graphics and website template Steve made for my ebook at work. Will stay in contact once the book is ready, so you can see yourself.
Have a great time – Sincerely
Martin
July 20th, 2009 at 4:10 pm
@ Diz – Great to have you on board Diz, thanks for your comments!
@ Bob – I was exactly the same before I realized it did more harm than good! Do it sooner rather than later! Cheers!
@ John P – Yeah, I did too!
@ Newbie Traffic – Hey, that looks pretty damn cool, I think I’ll have to look into that! Cheers!
@ Tommy – I’m pleased the pics gave you a smile, at your age you can go a lot longer without breaks, get your head down!
@ Danny – Yeah, I had a blast on the jet ski’s too, awesome fun. Katie was a bit scared on the back though! Every time I go on those they seem to get faster!
@ Kathy – Hi Kathy, yeah, we all like new and refreshing stuff to sink our teeth into, keep working hard!
@ Martin – Edinbugh is an awesome place to visit and re-charge, the drive up there from down here in Durham is beautiful, whatever the weather! Take it easy!
July 20th, 2009 at 7:29 pm
Hey Dave
Now thats so cool! This side of the world is a bit cold now, in a couple of months
time I will most probably follow your example.
Keep it up! You doing just fine!!
Chow
July 20th, 2009 at 8:57 pm
Hey Stanley,
Cheers mate, look forward to seeing your pics
Dave.
July 20th, 2009 at 9:34 pm
Thank for the mention Dave, Cyprus looks cool, it’s been while since I was there a revisit in need I think:)
You are right in every way about all work and no play. As you know it the moment I have a lot going on with my new house but I will be in in 3 weeks and you are invited for a little house warming. I will have the Beers on ice as I know you are quite partial to a cold one!
No problem with the work you can repay the favour when I take my well earned break to Menorca to rest my bones and come back into the marketing game full strength ready to rock and roll. It feels like I have been on the moon for the last 6 months. Fresh ideas are created at times of r and r.
Cheers,
Dan
July 21st, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Hey Dave,
Great post!! For a long time I’ve always made sure I have downtime / fun time – and you’re totally right, it means you can come back refreshed and actually work hard.
I’m a great believer in work hard / play harder!
Iain.
PS – Cheers for the great Widlink creation that we’ve got from MWA 2.0!
July 21st, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Hey Iain,
That sounds like a great foundation to build upon!
You are very welcome for Widlink.
Dave.
July 21st, 2009 at 4:05 pm
Hey Dan,
Yeah, if you go, I would maybe go at a cooler time of the year, it was mega hot when I was there … as you can see from my rock lobster impersonation!
I’ll look forward to you going away … Not!
It will be good to see you back on the scene dude!
Dave.
July 22nd, 2009 at 12:38 pm
Good post Dave, everyone needs to take breaks – glad to see you had a good time on holiday. I always take regular breaks, every day, and they consist of running in the local countryside. I know it sounds weird, but after a run I am always energised with new ideas and positive thoughts….It’s cheaper than holidays as well.
Keep up the good work.
John
July 22nd, 2009 at 1:01 pm
Hey John,
I do the very same thing! I’m off for a run with the wife later tonight … In the rain!
Cheers,
Dave.
July 22nd, 2009 at 2:14 pm
@ Ray J
Hey Ray, sorry for the slow reply, damn spam filter!
Yeah Socrates is a great guy!
The beer garden is a good place for a break, I’ve had a few there too!
Take it easy dude,
Dave.
July 23rd, 2009 at 2:26 am
Hey Dave
Caught your name in the Alex Jeffreys Class forum, sure glad I did. What a great blog you have here.
You are exactly on target about taking breaks. Even if it is just getting up out of the desk chair and looking out the window for a few minutes it helps to refresh the mind and get the blood flowing back into the feet.
There was a time that I would work the whole day without ever considering taking a break. I just wore myself out. Now I work like crazy, take a break then work some more. I get twice a much done. You have given people some great valuable advice.
Thomas
July 23rd, 2009 at 8:19 am
Hey Thomas,
Thanks for stopping by!
Yeah man, exactly right there, it does not have to be a full on Holiday, just a break from your routine!
If stretching your legs and saking in some scenery helps you relax, then that’s great!
Cheers for your comment.
Dave.
July 23rd, 2009 at 5:47 pm
Good looking website!! Lots of nice content. I am a student of Alex’s Jeffreys in his current 2.0 class. Keep up the good work!
Lee
July 24th, 2009 at 10:51 pm
Hi Dave,
You know, you are so right. Your business will suffer if you don’t make some time for rest and recuperation.
For a start off, if you make time to relax a little, two things happen. Firstly, your body gets the actual rest it needs and secondly, but perhaps more importantly, you will often come up with some of your best ideas, when your brain is in this ‘relaxed’ mode.
When you’re so busy that you’re just chasing your tail and completing tasks, your mind simply hasn’t got the time or energy to be creative. Take some to relax and see how those ideas just seem to pop into your head.
Hope to speak soon,
Andrew.
July 25th, 2009 at 2:01 am
Hi Dave,
Goodness, everyone had a lot to add here! Looks like you had a great vacation while the rest of us (meaning the MC students) were stewing over more class material
Oh, well, I am not complaining … at least I am living in sunny California so although there is NO ocean … the pool is just a few steps away …
Thank you for sharing the details of your trip! It was fun watching you try out water skiing
Many Thanks,
Svenja
July 25th, 2009 at 9:59 am
Cool stuff dave.. just myself got back from Geiranger in Norway.. the fjords were WOW .. and I am sure you enjoyed your time as well
tons of fun
wakas
July 31st, 2009 at 5:49 pm
@Lee – Cheers mate, you too!
@Peter – Thanks, call in anytime!
@Andrew – You hit the nail on the head there mate, yeah, talk soon!
@Svenja – Yeah, you don’t know how lucky you are to be living in such a nice place! I’ll make sure I video my next attempt, so you can have a laugh at it!
@ Wakas – Cool! Hope you had a great time!
Thanks for sharing guys!
Dave.
July 31st, 2009 at 10:20 pm
Hi Dave,
Man, I’m jealous.
I went to Cyprus about 10 years ago (not my last break!), and the picture of you and Socrates enjoying a beer , looked so much like a bar I was in when we stayed in Protaras….but I guess many bars in Cyprus look the same, need to get back there next year!
I have to agree with you about taking time out, essential. I’ve been off this week, but look, back to it
Thanks for sharing the photos, inspired me even more to get back to sunny Cyprus!
Take care
Sean
August 1st, 2009 at 4:33 am
I can’t believe that Adeel
sold 2500+ copies of Mass Article Submission in such a short time,
He made more then 160k in like 1-2 weeks,
He offered incredible value!
August 1st, 2009 at 10:40 am
Hey Sean,
The bar in Protaras was called Rockafellas, it was a sports bar with nice lager!
I would defo recommend a trip there, it was great!
I am pleased the post helped you.
Cheers,
Dave.
August 1st, 2009 at 10:53 am
Yeah, he actually sold over 5,000 copies, that was about a week ago, so you can bet it’s going to be closer to 10,000 copies now!
Excellent product!
August 2nd, 2009 at 1:08 am
Hey Dave:
man you have a comment party going here! QWay cool. I’ll be sure to feature your blog in my next ustream episode of “Blog Traffic Getting with Thomas”
– check my blog…
On the subject: The best concept I’ve heard AND tried and it worked well for me is to plan “focus” days, “buffer” days and “free” days. I try to make it so I have 3 focus days, 2 buffer days and 2 free days each week.
It helps a lot to plan for recreation and make it so you don’t feel guilty about it.
Cheers,
Thomas
August 2nd, 2009 at 5:42 am
Dave,
Reminds me of my last time in Barbados. I’ve been on several holidays since,
but it was Barbados that has me taking body surfing to a whole new level of
sea water consumption if you know what I mean.
When not in the water, the pain of my sun burn just about killed me too.
But it was FUN..
Cheers,
Rob
August 2nd, 2009 at 7:01 am
Yeah Dave,
Looking at your photos I think I need a good break too. All the work and coaching to catch up from Alex is choking me right now…….
Huddson
August 2nd, 2009 at 11:14 am
Dave,
So true is your post, its been nearly a year before I had my last week off from work. I need to schedule more vacation in the coming year to recharge the human batteries.
Richard
August 3rd, 2009 at 3:41 pm
Hi Dave,
My trip to Las Vegas with the Alex crew was my first proper break, and I absolutely loved it!
You’re right about time off being important to be able to focus properly on your work when you return, otherwise you just hit a wall & never seem to get anything done.
I will certainly be making the effort to schedule more holidays in – will you be making it to Alex’s 2nd seminar in Vegas?
Thanks,
Nikki
August 3rd, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Hey Nikki,
Yeah, I heard all about the Vegas trip, I was gutted I could not be there.
Not sure if I will be at the next one yet, still got multiple projects on the go!
Talk soon,
Dave.
August 4th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Hey Dave,
Pics look great, i understand what you mean when you said take one step forward and two steps back. I seem to be putting in the hours with very little results.
I think ill go and book flights now.
Take care
Nick
August 4th, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Hey Nick,
Yeah, get some chill out time sorted, sounds like you need it!
Dave.
August 4th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Hi Dave
Great pics looking real relaxed in most, apart from the one were u look as if your drowning, lol.
Good to see you got the sun.
And I hope you and Socrates wur only talking about Cyprus, I bet not, lol
Take Care
Graeme
August 5th, 2009 at 2:54 pm
Hi Graeme,
Cheers, I got a bit too much sun!
Yeah, me and Socrates never really mentioned busines … well, not much!
Dave.
August 6th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
Thanks Dave
P
Great post, I was wonderin g if you have any ideas on “tips and tricks” I can use to my advantage, if instead of lacking in new ideas & creativity, which I like to believe I have a lot of, I lack in the “know how”, how to put it all together, like rules, laws and standards as well as the technical side, as far as working on the web? I would like to get into the buisness of blogs and as well as having my own website. Thanks again for that post and hope to here from you soon.
Referred by Jason James via twitter.
- Jerry Moore
August 7th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Hey Jerry,
Thanks for stopping by!
I suggest you partner up with somebody who has the skill you need and put both of your skills together, this is called a JV (joint venture).
There are loads of good JV eBooks out there, try Joe Jablinski’s JV Source – Click here, or John Thornhill’s brand new JV Profits – Click here
You could even request help on a forum like the Warrior Forum or simply send out a request on Twitter!
Hope this helps.
Dave.
August 7th, 2009 at 1:37 pm
Hi Dave, looks like fun, thanks for sharing it.
I’ve taken a leaf out of your book Dave and have created my very own ebook. It’s about easing the finacial squeeze that most people are under at the moment with the power of eBay. It shows you how to research the market on ebay, along with setting up a shop, sourcing the products to sell from it, tips and techniques for successful listing.
Why am i telling you about it? You wrote me a testamonial for my sales page! “Thank you”. Well Dave it has now gone live and you can find it at:
http://easethesqueezewithauctions.com/
Thanks again for all the help and encouragement Dave, you’re a TOP MAN.
August 8th, 2009 at 10:33 am
Hi Dave
I so know what you mean about taking a break – I started Alex’s course and two days later went to Majorca – but since I’ve been back I have been working flat out trying to catch up with everything I missed while I was away.
So now I need another one! Will have to make some money first – so back to the keyboard!!!
August 8th, 2009 at 3:22 pm
Haha, well … Maybe not so often Barbara, take your breaks when you feel you need them and schedule them around your work, not at busy periods.
Thanks,
Dave.
August 9th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
Boy does that sound familiar. I live right on the coast and have only managed to kite surf once this year!
Got to sort my priorities out!
August 10th, 2009 at 8:49 am
Yeah Peter, if I had your skill I would be out there all the time!
August 10th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Hi Dave
I’m not good in this area, but its absolutely vital to do it.
Great post.
Regards
Mike
August 11th, 2009 at 8:40 am
Hi Dave,
You are SO right. I went hot-air ballooning on the weekend and it was a great break.
But… er… I did take my latest e-book to edit later that night. I… just… can… help… myself! LOL!
I might get some pics and a video up on my blog later.
Regards
Gary Simpson
PS: Pauls (aka Paula Brett – I saw your comment @ #5 – that was most amusing to TGM)
August 11th, 2009 at 11:23 am
Hey Gaz,
So that was you I saw flying over my house was it?
No kidding, I really did see a balloon right above my house, looked kinda cool!
As long as you find writing ebooks relaxing, I don’t see a problem taking them on your break dude.
I’ll look forward to the pics!
Cheers,
Dave.
August 11th, 2009 at 11:57 pm
Hmm… I read blogs on a similar topic, but i never visited your blog. I added it to favorites and i’ll be your constant reader.
August 13th, 2009 at 12:38 am
Hi Dave
This is a sweet blog, and I must agree I do need some time off after a couple of
weeks on the computer almost non stop my brain is fried, just one day relaxing
with a nice cigar really does wonders for my spirit I just got back from South Carolina
I had the laptop so I got a little done, my wife kept telling me to get off the computer
but it is very addictive.
I just signed up for your newsletter looking forward to it .
Alexis
August 13th, 2009 at 4:21 am
Looks like you had a great time, Dave. I want to take a break too, but for now I guess it’s going to have to be in my back yard. Hmmm bring in a truckload of sand, fill up a wading pool…
Gene
August 13th, 2009 at 9:24 am
Hey Alexis,
Yeah, I know it’s addictive stuff, especially when you are passionate about your work, like I am and sounds like you are too.
) if you didn’t take the laptop next time!
But it would be much better for you (and probably your marriage
Talk soon,
Dave.
August 13th, 2009 at 9:25 am
Hey Gene,
The back yard is a good a place as any to take your break!
Especially if it has sand and a pool too!
Thanks,
Dave.
August 13th, 2009 at 9:38 am
(Re 80 & 81) Speaking of which… Gene and Dave…
I had a guy come over the other day and fill a big hole in my back yard with water. I guess he meant well.
Gary Simpson
PS 1 – Dave, have you seen my latest Vegas video – IM Tips #5? – it’s worth a look – you’ll get a real surprise. LOL!
PS 2 – Your answer to PMW’s question @ 63/64 sounds an awful lot like a no at this stage.
August 13th, 2009 at 9:45 am
Hey Gary,
So you got a free swimming pool eh? Lucky bugger!
I’ll go watch the video now. *Edit* Lol, just watched the video, looks like you really enjoyed mixing business with pleasure there! Stumped for words .. That’s not like you!
Yeah, it’s looking that way at the moment buddy, you would not believe how much work I have planned for the next 4 months!
Talk soon,
Dave.
August 20th, 2009 at 8:13 am
Hi Dave,
Tell me about it. I need a break right now. Ugh… I am just starting out and I am in from of the computer all the time. I am in Dean Holland’s, Starting with Marketing Academy and I have my blog up and running and working on filling it with content. I figure that I need to work very hard for a short period of time and enjoy the fruits of my labor for a long period of time. Thanks for the post and the pictures. That is motivating in itself.
All the best,
Ed
August 20th, 2009 at 10:00 am
Hey Ed,
I know exactly the situation you are in there, I’ve been there!
Just don’t let things get on top of you too much, it may end up disheartening you and being counter productive!
Pleased it motivated you tho, keep it up.
Dave.
August 24th, 2009 at 5:47 am
Hei from Norway Dave,
Love how your living the lifestyle and sharing it with the rest of us on your blog here.
Will you share some of the details of how you did the collage of photos at the top of this post’s excerpt? (a grouping of smaller versions of the photos that then opened up to full size in the complete blog post)
That got my attention.
All the best to you and yours!
August 24th, 2009 at 8:16 am
Hey Timothy,
Pleased you enjoyed it, yeah, I’ll do a video on that for you and post it here.
Dave.
August 26th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
Dave,
Seems I missed out on the brandy session friday night….i love brandy !!!… Thought id best pop by and say hi, didn’t get chance to speak over the weekend… next time… See you at the bar!!!!
Richard.
August 27th, 2009 at 12:15 pm
Hey Richard,
Sorry I missed you at the weekend, maybe catch you at the next event eh!
Yeah, it was a bit chilly on the night time, so we err.. had to find some way of keeping warm whilst we were brainstorming!
Cheers,
Dave.
August 27th, 2009 at 12:51 pm
Hi Dave,
Just saw these comments come through in my email – heh… heh…
Re: #91 – I think you would fit in rather WELL at Las Vegas – you and me and Queen Pauls holding the fort (I mean the bar).
Gary Simpson
August 27th, 2009 at 1:03 pm
Hey Gaz,
Yeah man, wish I was there!
Enjoy!
Say hi to Paula and tell her to put that voddie down and get some work done!
Dave.
August 27th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
Hi Dave,
I glad you took a couple of weeks, it really looks like you enjoyed yourself, thanks for sharing the photos. It made me think back to when I went to Mexico with my wife, yes very relaxing…
I just wanted to comment on your post, this is the single most important thing you can do for yourself.
I know it is hard, when I first started online there was absolutely no way I could go anyway without taking my laptop, not even to the washroom…
Just kidding, but really if I went somewhere – what would I miss?
Take a holiday, yea right…
That’s like taking a teenagers cell phone away or moving to a remote island. Being cut off from the real world… how will I live?
Well the first time was the hardest but what a great lesson I learned. Life goes on, traffic still flows, sales are made… amazing right???
This year I took 3 week off. Yes I did take my computer but I am happy to say I used it 4 times in the 3 weeks we were away. 2 of those times were for the coaching calls and bonus module that Alex Jeffreys line up for us.
Refreshing? YOU BET
If you are strapped to your computer and can’t possibly leave, please do me a favor. Take 2 or 3 days and get away, OK 2 days – start off slow.
Yes you can… You can do this, I promise.
You will come back a better person and thank yourself later.
Take Care and enjoy life
Alvin Dawe
August 27th, 2009 at 6:47 pm
Hey Alvin,
Some great advice there, I’m pleased taking a break worked for you too.
Keep up the great work.
Dave.
August 29th, 2009 at 4:24 am
Good looking blog, Dave. I agree that taking breaks helps clear the head. I just got back from the Great Smoky Mountains for a break from the same 4 walls and the same old routine. However, my break was for the PURPOSE of working, not getting away from work. You see, I have too many distractions at home so had to get away from the distractions. The change helped me alot. That just gives me one more incentive to make a go of this Internet Marketing…. so I can take multiple vacations each year. Yeah! That’s what I’M Talking About!!!
Dawn
August 29th, 2009 at 10:50 am
Hey Dawn,
Yeah, good point there!
Sometimes you need to get away to concentrate if there are distractions at home.
Basically, whatever help you work better with a smile on your face
Keep up the great work.
Dave.
September 6th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
Internet marketing is very addictive and I believe even more so when you first start. I try to take breaks and always find my mind wandering to what I will do next when I am back online. I believe that if you set up specific tasks to complete then it its easier to take a break at the end of each. The trick is to choose these tasks such that you get some true sense of accomplishment when each one is done. This may also help you to be more focused on the tasks that are important and avoid doing too many extra things that are not important – time spent on those unimportant things could be your break time.
September 7th, 2009 at 10:00 am
Hey Gemel,
That’s a good point! Cheers,
Dave.
September 17th, 2009 at 11:23 pm
Hey Dave,
This is awesome and a great reminder for us all. I bet you posted those pictures just to get us to envy you right ? Well it works
Another great thing to remember is to get off of the computer and interact with a group of like minded people. That way when you are online working your tail off marketing on the internet, you can be much more effective.
I also loved your other posts (especially the free video opt-in pages).
I recently came across your twitter dynamite while looking at twitter. First of all it looks awesome and second of all, I think I have the matching application to automate it all. Go take a look over at my blog http://www.GilsCorner.com and if you want to I’d be very happy to start working together.
Cheers
Gil
September 20th, 2009 at 6:26 am
Hi Dave,
This is the first time I have actually posted a comment on your blog, even though I have been following you for quite a while. I am a student of John Thornhill’s from his masterclass.
By the way I love the graphics Steve does. I have all of my graphics done with Planet Divinity.
It sounds like you had a well earned and very desirable break! This internet world is an amazing place, but can also be to our detriment if we don’t balance our lives in the process.
I am SO looking forward to taking a well deserved holiday, when I can. At the moment I take my breaks from work by enjoying days at local craft markets with my little one. Not only do I spend time with my child out of the house, but you would be surprised at the ideas you can get from a farmers market.
I hope all is great!
And good to see you are back at work 
Congrats on the successful launch of “Tweet Dynamite”
Kind Regards
Jacinta
September 20th, 2009 at 9:11 am
Hey Jacinta,
Thanks for stopping by!
I’ll pass your graphical comments on to Steve, he likes to get compliments!
You’re dead right about balancing your life with your work.
It sounds like you are in the right, what I call ‘mind set’, which is basically always having your mind open to new ideas, wherever you are!
I personally come up with some of my best ideas while brainstorming with like minded people over a few beers!
Thanks for your congrats for http://www.tweet-dynamite.com, it was an amazing success!
Regards,
Dave.
September 20th, 2009 at 2:06 pm
Hi Dave,
Just wanted to say Thank You!
for the graphic background for my blog. I have fixed it.
No Worries on the comments about Steve and the awesome graphics he has done for me. Most of the time I just given him such a broad description and say “I trust you”, and without failure he produces exactly what I had in mind!
Can relate to the ideas over a few drinks, but with little one in toe I don’t get to do that often.
Thank you for all your advice on your blog and for all the help you have given to John’s students. You, Daniel and Steve and John and not to mention Paula ROCK!!!!!
Thank you for being a great teacher.
Jacinta
September 20th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
Hey Jacinta,
No problem at all, happy to help.
I’m sure your little one inspires you much more than a few beers!
Keep up the great work.
Dave.
September 30th, 2009 at 12:23 am
Dave
Great blog post, it is often very understated about taking a break to refresh both body and mind. Whilst i am still relatively new to the IM game and soaking up everything I can like a sponge, i think its important to be able to step away and take a break to avoid overload.
I actually find that my brain is usually racing with ideas and strategies and things to do, which I write down to turn into action on my return.
Just need to get to that level where the breaks outweigh the ‘work’ and the lifestyle balance is perfect!!
All the best
Tom
September 30th, 2009 at 12:47 pm
Hey Tom,
I hear what you’re saying! Keep up the great work!
Dave.
October 13th, 2009 at 9:26 pm
Dave:
Dude, you’re playing too much and working too little
) – How do you keep up your ranking and all without posting a single new post since July?
If I could figure that out I’d have more time to play myself
Cheers,
Thomas
October 14th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Haha, yeah, I know I have been spreading myself a little thin lately.
Been working on a big project – http://www.multiprofitwebsites.com and I don’t want to pay somebody to post for me, I feel blogs should be personal.
Regards,
Dave.
October 17th, 2009 at 3:52 pm
Hey Dave, looks like you had a really great break away from it all.
You hit the nail on the head with this post and taking a step back from your business for awhile can really help it grow.
Working yourself into the ground and lacking concentration will never make you money, your work will become sloppy and the results will reflect that.
When you feel you need to take a step back and clear your head then that is the best thing to do. Spend some time with your family or freinds, get out and about, it will do you the world of good and your business also.
Take care mate,
Michael Appleton
November 19th, 2009 at 12:01 am
Seems like Socrates has got it sorted. Who needs to go to a sunny island for a break when you live on one ! That’s basically one of the major attractions that internet marketing offers – being able to work wherever you like. And you demonstrated that by doing ‘a little bit’ of work while you were there. Good post and pictures.
January 13th, 2010 at 7:07 am
A time management technique does require a 15 minute break every hour of work. Based on that a fortnight break every six months should rejuvenate the dormant cells in the body….
January 16th, 2010 at 11:28 pm
Dave,
Ah the memories…Cyprus, beer in hand – I’ve worked there on a couple of occasions spending time in Troodos, Platres, Limassol. Great place.
Are you planning on returning soon?
January 17th, 2010 at 10:51 am
Hey Dave,
Yeah, I love Cyprus so I will probably be back there in a year or so.
Regards,
Dave.
February 22nd, 2010 at 8:15 pm
Hi Dave,
Great pic of you and Socrates! Two experts enjoying a good break-and the fruits of their labours …
Thanks for great advice and great graphics
Mike
February 23rd, 2010 at 4:23 pm
Hey Mike,
Cheers mate, you are very welcome!
Dave.