School’s Out – But Your Business Still Needs You: 5 Smart Ways to Stay on Track Over Summer

The final bell has rung, the lunchboxes are packed away, and suddenly your house is full of hungry kids and sun cream.

If you’re a parent and a business owner, summer can feel like a juggling act and it’s easy for your finances to slip to the bottom of the list.

But here’s the good news: with a few small shifts, you can keep things ticking over without giving up your summer completely.

Here are 5 ways to keep your business finances on track (without losing your mind) during the school holidays.

1. Make Friends with the 20-Minute Power Session

Forget long to-do lists and perfect conditions they’re rare in summer.

Instead, focus on short, focused bursts. Set a timer for 20 minutes and tackle one small finance task:

• Chase an overdue invoice

• Scan receipts into your software

• Check bank transactions

• File one month’s paperwork

Small steps add up and they feel doable in between ice creams and day trips.

2. Use Quiet Times to Reflect, Not Panic

If work slows down during summer, don’t worry. Use the quieter moments to:

• Check your goals for the year

• Review spending habits

• Update your cash flow plan

• Set a reminder for your next tax deadline

Even 15 minutes with a coffee and your books can help you feel more in control.

3. Don’t Be Afraid to Pause (or Say No)

It’s OK to press pause or create a lighter schedule.

You don’t have to say yes to every job or email right away especially if your energy is split.

Set realistic expectations with clients and protect time for family. You’ll come back fresher, and your finances won’t fall apart because you slowed down for a week.

4. Schedule What You Can, So You Don’t Forget

If your memory feels full of school trips and snack requests, automation is your friend:

• Use reminders for invoice due dates

• Schedule regular payments

• Automate email follow-ups

• Block out mini admin slots in your calendar

You’re less likely to miss something important when it’s planned in ahead.

5. Ask for Help if You’re Feeling Swamped

If the books are behind, the receipts are stacking up, or you’re not sure where to start ask for help.

Sometimes handing it over (even just for the summer) can ease the pressure and give you breathing room.

💡 Barleyfields Accountancy offers calm, friendly support whether you need a one-off tidy up or someone to take over the financial noise in the background.

Final Thought

Summer with the kids can feel chaotic but your business doesn’t have to.

You don’t need to do everything perfectly. A little organisation now means you can enjoy the holidays and feel confident your finances are under control.

Need a hand catching up or getting things in order before September hits?

You know where I am ☺️

Emma

Barleyfields Accountancy