Kaylee Lieffers, CEO at Blankabrand.com, recently made a bold move that challenges the conventional wisdom of today’s startup culture: she took a two-week vacation. For many founders, especially in the fast-paced world of startups, taking such an extended break might seem impossible, even reckless. Yet, Kaylee Lieffers not only did it but also turned it into a strategic advantage for both herself and her company. Her experience offers valuable insights into the importance of intentional disconnection and the power of trust in leadership.
Kaylee Lieffers: The Power of Preparation The success of Kaylee Lieffers’ vacation didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of meticulous preparation, a process that took two months to complete. Kaylee Lieffers understood that stepping away from the helm required a solid plan. She ensured that her responsibilities were effectively handed off and that her team had everything they needed to make decisions in her absence. This level of preparation reflects a deep understanding of the importance of foresight in leadership.
Kaylee Lieffers’ approach underscores the fact that true leadership isn’t about being indispensable; it’s about empowering others to take the reins when necessary. By preparing her team for her absence, Kaylee Lieffers demonstrated her trust in their abilities and her belief in the resilience of the systems they had built together. This preparation wasn’t just about ensuring the continuity of operations; it was about fostering a culture of accountability and confidence within her team.
Kaylee Lieffers: The Art of True DisconnectionDuring her vacation, Kaylee Lieffers did something that many leaders find incredibly difficult: she truly disconnected. She turned on her “Out of Office” notification, turned off Slack, and banned herself from looking at any company KPIs. For two weeks, Kaylee Lieffers resisted the urge to check in, focusing instead on recharging and enjoying her time away. This deliberate disconnection was not just a personal indulgence; it was a strategic move that reinforced the autonomy of her team.
By fully disconnecting, Kaylee Lieffers set a powerful example for her team. In a world where being constantly connected is often equated with dedication, Kaylee Lieffers showed that true commitment also involves knowing when to step back. Her actions sent a clear message to her team: it’s okay, even necessary, to take a break. This kind of leadership, where actions speak louder than words, helps to cultivate a work culture that values well-being alongside productivity.
Kaylee Lieffers: The Strategic Return As her vacation came to an end, Kaylee Lieffers prepared for her return to the office with the same level of intention that she had applied to her departure. Before she left, she asked her team to prepare a one-pager summarizing all the major developments in the business during her absence. Although it turned out to be a 14-page document, it was an invaluable tool for Kaylee Lieffers to quickly get back up to speed. This strategy not only helped her transition smoothly back into her role but also held her team accountable for their work while she was away.
Kaylee Lieffers’ return to the office was marked by two key realizations. First, she observed the resilience of her business. The operations had run smoothly in her absence, a testament to the strength of the systems and the capabilities of her team. Second, she identified areas for improvement, insights that were only possible because she had taken a step back. By allowing herself to fully disconnect, Kaylee Lieffers returned with fresh perspectives and a renewed sense of purpose, ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
Kaylee Lieffers: Leading by Example One of the most significant outcomes of Kaylee Lieffers’ vacation was the example it set for her team. By taking a true break, Kaylee Lieffers demonstrated that recharging is not just a luxury; it’s a necessary component of effective leadership. Her actions showed that a leader’s strength lies not in their ability to be constantly present but in their capacity to trust their team and systems to operate independently.
Kaylee Lieffers’ experience highlights a crucial aspect of leadership: the importance of modeling the behavior you want to see in your team. By prioritizing her well-being and taking time to recharge, Kaylee Lieffers sent a powerful message about the value of balance in the workplace. This approach not only benefits the leader but also creates a more sustainable and healthy work environment for everyone involved.
Kaylee Lieffers: A New Perspective on Leadership At the end of her two-week vacation, Kaylee Lieffers returned recharged, with a million ideas and ready to conquer the rest of 2024. Her experience serves as a powerful reminder that leadership is not just about being in the trenches every day; it’s also about knowing when to step back, recharge, and come back stronger. Kaylee Lieffers’ decision to take a break wasn’t crazy—it was visionary. It was a strategic investment in herself, her team, and her company.
In an era where the startup grind is often glorified, Kaylee Lieffers stands as a testament to the power of balance. Her story encourages other founders and leaders to rethink their approach to work and to recognize the importance of intentional disconnection. After all, as Kaylee Lieffers has shown, work will keep moving whether you’re there or not. The key is to return to it with renewed energy, fresh ideas, and the clarity to lead with purpose. So, as you plan for the rest of 2024, take a page from Kaylee Lieffers’ book: invest in yourself, take that vacation, and come back ready to conquer.
