In this episode of the Build Your Business podcast, Matt Reynolds makes the case for why every entrepreneur needs to take some time off—not just to relax, but to lead better. In a world dominated by hustle culture, Matt shares how purposeful rest boosts creativity, renews focus, and ultimately increases business output. You’ll hear how stepping back helped him return as a more effective CEO—and how you can build a business that allows for the same kind of flexibility and freedom.

The Productivity Lie: Always-On Isn’t Always Smart

Matt opens by dismantling the myth that “real” business owners never stop grinding. He challenges the false virtue of nonstop work, exposing how it leads to burnout, short-sighted decisions, and diminished effectiveness as a leader.

Instead, he reframes time off as a strategic decision—a key part of long-term business health, personal well-being, and sustained leadership excellence.

What It Looks Like to Take Some Time Off

Taking time off doesn’t mean letting go of discipline or letting work pile up. Matt walks through how he structures his ideal “restful work” days—combining early morning coaching, daily training, and peaceful routines that keep him mentally clear and physically energized.

He shows that even during a getaway, doing small, meaningful work early in the day can free the rest of your time to truly rest and reconnect with yourself and your family.

Rest Unlocks Creativity

Matt explains that the second half of his time away is always the most insightful. Once the stress of daily operations fades, the mental bandwidth opens up for creative, strategic thinking.

This is where major business clarity happens—not in the office, but when you’re reading by the water, reflecting on your mission, or walking in silence without urgency pressing in. Taking some time off is often the catalyst for your best ideas.

Time Off Is Accessible (and Affordable)

You don’t need a luxury resort to feel refreshed. Matt emphasizes that anyone can take some time off by being intentional with their environment. Whether it’s a $50 cabin in the woods or unplugging at home for a weekend, it’s about shifting gears, not draining your bank account.

The return on rest isn’t in the destination—it’s in your ability to pause, be present, and disconnect from urgency.

Build a Business That Supports Time Off

Finally, Matt links the conversation to the freedom that online coaching and platforms like TurnKey Coach provide. By designing a business that operates even when you’re not at the desk, you can take some time off without worrying that everything will fall apart.

If your business requires your constant presence to survive, this episode is a call to action. Reclaim your freedom, reset your strategy, and remember why you started in the first place.