Alright, folks, let’s talk business. Not the hustle-and-burnout kind—let’s focus on building something worthwhile without burning ourselves out. With the end of the year fast approaching, it’s prime time to pause, reflect, and map out our business goals. But instead of just scribbling dreams down in a planner and hoping for the best, let’s break it down with a good dose of practicality, a sprinkle of fun, and, of course, a little snark. Grab your favourite cozy drink, and let’s get to it.
Reflect on the Past Year (But Don’t Dwell!)
As the year winds down, it’s natural to look back. You’ve accomplished a lot (yes, even if it doesn’t feel like it). Start by taking a broad view of what worked and what didn’t. Look at your income and your time—are they in sync? Maybe you made more than expected, or maybe you had one too many 6 a.m. meetings that turned you into a caffeine-fueled zombie.
Reflecting also means acknowledging who you’ve worked with this year. We all have those clients we’d jump through hoops for, and others who… well, let’s just say you might not prioritize them next year. Don’t be afraid to cut ties with clients or relationships that drain you. Time and energy are resources too, and you’re allowed to be selective.
Take a moment to assess yourself, too. What were your proudest business moments this year? Did you launch a project or push through a tough season? Celebrate those victories! Now, on to bigger and better things.
Reconnect with Your “Why” (Because, Let’s Face It, We All Forget)
It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks and forget why you’re running this business in the first place. Is it the freedom to set your own schedule? The thrill of creating something from scratch? Revisit your reasons, and if they’ve evolved, let them guide your 2024 plans. If your “why” still lights you up, you’re on the right track.
This is where reflection turns practical. Does your current business structure align with what truly drives you? If you’re chasing client after client, meeting yourself coming and going, maybe it’s time for a strategic overhaul. Focus on attracting the clients and projects that let you thrive, not just survive.
And hey, if you find yourself dreaming of a total 180, go with it. Change is part of growth, even if it means trying new services or ditching certain tasks. Be honest with yourself; your business should support your dreams, not weigh them down.
Build Boundaries That Actually Work (No, Really)
Let’s talk boundaries. We all know they’re important, but how many times have you broken your own rules this year? Maybe it was taking that late-night call or saying “yes” to a low-ball project that ended up being a nightmare. Set boundaries that prioritize your energy and your well-being so that you can show up as your best self for clients and loved ones alike.
Define what time of day works best for you and make it known. If 6 p.m. is off-limits, stick to it. There’s a difference between flexibility and letting everyone else dictate your schedule. If you’re feeling guilty about enforcing these rules, remember that boundaries make you a better business owner and a happier person.
And remember, clients will respect the boundaries you enforce. They might even appreciate knowing that you’re a human with limits. Boundaries keep you grounded and ensure that you’re working smarter, not harder.
Know What to Let Go (Hint: Not Everything Needs Your Personal Touch)
As business owners, we love to wear all the hats, but some of them don’t suit us. Hate accounting? Outsource it. Dread social media? Automate it. The truth is, you don’t have to do everything. Use this season to identify tasks that sap your energy and look for ways to offload them in the new year.
Sometimes letting go means trusting others to handle things. Maybe you hire a virtual assistant, or maybe you find tools to streamline your work. Yes, there’s a learning curve, but think of the time and sanity you’ll reclaim once the system is in place. And remember: delegation isn’t a luxury; it’s a strategy for growth.
The tasks you dread are signals. They tell you what’s not aligned with your strengths or passions. Focus on what you love and what you’re best at—delegate the rest. And if you’re still not convinced, just picture yourself freed from those least-favorite tasks.
Dream Big, But Build Smart (No House of Cards Here)
Now comes the fun part: dreaming big. Maybe you want to scale your business, introduce a new service, or tackle that elusive project you’ve put off. Whatever it is, think through the steps to make it happen. Big goals are only worthwhile if they’re grounded in reality, so take time to assess what it’ll really take to make them happen.
For every dream, there’s a path. And while the idea of taking that path is thrilling, it’s wise to plan each step. Maybe that means setting milestones, creating a timeline, or building your skills. A solid plan gives you confidence that your dreams aren’t just pie-in-the-sky ideas—they’re tangible, achievable goals.
When setting those dreams in motion, remember: your goals are yours to design. There are endless ways to succeed, and there’s no “one right way” to make it happen. Define your path and be prepared to adapt. That’s where the magic happens.
Dream Big, Reflect Often, and Let Go When Needed
The end of the year is a time for big questions and bold answers. You’re at the helm of your business, so make the choices that suit your strengths, passions, and vision for the future. Reflect, refine, and be unapologetic about the business you’re building.
If you’re ready to level up with the right tools and community, check out the Rockstar Success Circle over at geekygirl.ca/rssc. It’s where big ideas and practical support come together—perfect for all of us who are over overgiving.
