Small Biz Bulletin - July 2024
Message from Special Secretary Martinez
Recharge This Summer
I love summer in Maryland! Our beautiful state has so much to offer, from cool hiking trails in the western region and historic sites in Southern Maryland, to catching an Orioles game in downtown Baltimore, fishing on the Susquehanna River in northern Maryland, or enjoying the beaches of the Eastern Shore. Whether it’s the Maryland Ice Cream Trail, the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail, the C&O Canal Trail Experience, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, or the Crystal Grottoes Caverns, there are countless attractions to pique your interest.
As a small business owner, I understand how challenging it can be to find time for anything beyond work. The demands of entrepreneurship often mean your dedication goes beyond regular waking hours, with the pressure of meeting payroll and finding the next customer. But a 24/7 work schedule is not sustainable. Overworking yourself can dull your perspective, reduce productivity, and lead to burnout. Physically, overworking can disrupt sleep patterns, impact your mood, and cause health problems.
Even if finding time for a full vacation seems impossible, Maryland offers welcoming places for a day or so getaway. It’s not the length of time that matters, but the memorable moments that renew and recharge your spirit. These short breaks allow you to refresh and come back with a new perspective, ready to embrace challenges and resolve issues.
This summer, try to make a plan to step away from the hustle and bustle of running a business. There are new friends to meet, new places to explore, and different cultures to experience. Whether you take a long-needed vacation or a few day trips with the family or reconnecting with friends, I hope this simple act of self-care becomes a cherished habit.
To get your started, check out these suggestions from the Maryland Office of Tourism: Top Things To Do In Summer.
Wishing you all a safe and fantastic summer!
Sincerely,
Maria Martinez
Special Secretary