Episode 203 – Taking a Leave as an Independent Consultant with Anushka Chhaya

Are you an independent consultant wondering if it’s possible to take time off from your business without losing momentum or clients? In this episode, Melisa is joined by Anushka Chhaya, founder of Chhaya Consulting, who shares her real-life experience of navigating maternity leave as a newly established independent consultant. Whether you’re considering maternity leave, a sabbatical, or simply need a break, this episode offers concrete strategies for taking extended time off without the fear of your business falling apart.

In this episode, we cover:

Building a Process That Supports Limited Capacity
Learn how Anushka built effective processes to stay connected with clients, manage expectations, and keep her pipeline intact while taking maternity leave. We’ll also dive into tips for setting healthy boundaries with clients—and how to ensure your workload is manageable without burning out.

Challenges and Unexpected Benefits of Taking Time Off
Taking a leave isn’t all smooth sailing, and Anushka is open about the hurdles she faced during her time off. But she also uncovers some surprising benefits, including the mental and emotional growth that comes from stepping away. This part of the conversation offers valuable insights for anyone hesitant to take a break.

3 Essential Phases for Planning Your Leave
You don’t want to dive into taking time off without a clear plan in place. Get the 3-phase framework you need to prepare your consulting business for a smooth transition. From pre-leave prep to navigating your time off and re-entering your business, we provide actionable steps to ensure your leave is as stress-free as possible.

Why Planning for Time Off is Key to Long-Term Business Success
Taking time off isn’t just about hitting pause—it’s about creating a sustainable, resilient business that can weather life’s changes. We’ll talk about why planning for breaks, vacations, and personal time is crucial for long-term success, not just survival.

Whether you’re eyeing a few weeks or several months off, Anushka’s journey provides a powerful blueprint for consulting business owners who want to keep their operations thriving while they recharge.

Tune in to discover how to:

  • Plan for your leave with confidence
  • Avoid common pitfalls that can arise during extended time away
  • Re-enter your business with clarity and minimal stress

This episode isn’t just for new parents—it’s for any consultant who needs time to recharge and wants to do so without sacrificing the future of their business.

🔗 Today’s Companion Resource is The Consultant’s Yearly Planning Guide. Click here to download it.

FOR MORE RESOURCES SPECIFIC TO THE INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT —

  1. Discuss working with Melisa as your coach – Click here to schedule your consultation.
  2. Buy the book – Grow Your Consulting Business: The 14-Step Roadmap to Make Your Independent Consulting Goals a Reality
  3. Watch my YouTube Podcast Channel
  4. LinkedIn 
  5. Website 
  6. Check out Anushka’s Consulting Business

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