Perhaps the reaction is because you didn't plan the time off? Are you a quiet control freak, like me? :-) I know I sometimes write off my instincts because I don't feel I controlled them, and if I didn't control them I should worry, etc. ...

Sales sucks, IMO - I left Kwik Fit in a huff over sales, so I empathise a bit. Are you looking for a niche that is similar though, or something different?