5 Tips for Running a Business When a Loved One is Dying

This post may seem dark, but it’s my current reality (this post is a year old, my mom died 12/2023), and it’s something that other business owners may face at some point as well. Having a loved one who is dying is an emotional and exhausting experience, but the truth is, life doesn’t stop - bills still need to be paid, employees still need to be managed, and the business still needs to run.

Running a business while grieving and facing such a difficult reality is challenging. So, if you find yourself in a similar situation, here are five tips I’ve learned that might help you navigate through the storm while keeping your business afloat.

1. Prepare Financially for Time Off

I know it’s not easy to step away from your business, even when life becomes overwhelming. The work doesn’t stop, and your business still needs you. That said, when the time comes, I plan to take at least two weeks off to fully disconnect. It's important to prepare for that now - set aside savings or make arrangements to cover any costs during your time away. Having a financial cushion will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on your family when the time comes, without stressing over the bills.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Cut Yourself Some Slack

It’s easy to feel guilty when you can’t give 100% to your business, especially when a loved one is gravely ill. But you need to recognize that your mental and emotional health should be your priority right now. Cut yourself some slack and don’t expect perfection. It’s okay if you can’t get everything done today, or if you need to reschedule or delegate tasks. Your well-being matters, and your business can wait.

3. Delegate and Lean on Your Team

Even if you don’t have a large team, having people you trust around you is crucial. Whether it’s employees, co-workers, or business partners, rely on the people who can help you manage things during this difficult time. Communication is key, so be transparent with your team about what’s going on, and ask for their support. The work can still get done - it just might look a little different for a while.

4. Take Time to Disconnect When You Can

When you're running a business and dealing with a loved one’s illness, it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking you have to work around the clock to keep things moving. But it’s important to take time for yourself - whether that means stepping away from work for a few hours or taking a longer break when necessary. Permitting yourself to disconnect allows you to reset emotionally and mentally, helping you be present for your family while keeping your business in a manageable state.

5. Talk to Someone (Therapy Helps)

As much as my husband is an incredible support system and a loving partner through this journey, I’ve realized that I need an outside confidant. For me, therapy has been an essential tool in coping with the complexity of my emotions. Grief is messy, and having someone outside of your immediate family to talk to helps you process everything in a healthy way. It's okay to lean on a professional to guide you through these overwhelming moments. Talking it out, without judgment or expectations, can bring clarity and relief.

Closing Thoughts

Running a business while a loved one is dying is one of the hardest things you may face, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Take the time to prepare financially, lean on your team, cut yourself some slack, and seek the support you need. You’re human, and navigating both the responsibilities of a business and the pain of loss is a balancing act. Be kind to yourself through this process, and take things one day at a time.

If you’re in a similar situation, know that you’re not alone. You’ll get through this, and your business can, too.