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As an independent contractor, you call the shots. You’re bound only by the rules outlined in your contract, and at Carolina Counseling Services, we’re here to support you—not dictate how you do things. One of the most surprising aspects of this freedom is realizing that, when it comes to taking time off, there’s no one you need to ask.
Many contractors still reach out to inform us about upcoming vacations or days off. Our response is always, “Enjoy yourself, have fun, you deserve it!” We also remind them, “You don’t need to ask anyone for permission”. Despite knowing this, many say, “I just felt like I needed to tell someone.” This stems from years of conditioning in traditional work environments, where employees need approval to take time off, even with PTO.
In those employee roles, you wait for approval before securing your vacation dates. As a contractor, that anxiety can linger. The first time you plan a vacation as an independent contractor, you might feel uneasy—wondering if you’re taking too much time off or missing an invisible element of approval.
This is where you need to flex your “self-management muscle.” Yes, as a contractor, you can take as much time off as you want. You can go on vacations whenever you choose. But remember: if you’re not working, you’re not making money. The balance between freedom and financial responsibility becomes key.
As an independent contractor, you’ll need to figure out how much time you can afford to take off each quarter or year while maintaining the lifestyle you desire. You’re now in control of deciding how much you need to earn weekly, monthly, or annually. This newfound freedom is exhilarating, but it also comes with the responsibility of managing yourself like never before.
“To whom much is given, much is required.”
