By Karlene Sinclair-Robinson
The end of a year always brings with it the ‘New Year’s Resolution’ boom. The process comes with making a long list of things to accomplish. These resolutions are often not realistic. And too often, business owners fail to start on their goals because they are too busy working in their business and not on their business. And if they do, the list of things never get to the stage of completion.
Why should you make New Year’s resolutions in the first place?
We often get caught up in the nostalgia of the season. We tend to figure that without making any resolutions, we are not living up to expectations.
With 2020 just a few short weeks away, business owners must consider what they would like to accomplish for the New Year. A new year can mean more business, increased hiring, expansion, and much more.
Regardless of your ideas on setting New Year’s resolutions, it is essential that you take a direct approach to fulfill your goals. Whether the goals are for business or personal gratification, it is necessary that you follow through. The ability to complete the list of resolutions comes from creating a process to getting them completed.
Here are three (3) things I believe you should consider when planning for a New Year:
S.M.A.R.T. Goals
Goal setting is essential to getting ahead. Setting goals is important. The key is to complete the things you must get done. It is pointless setting goals if you are not going to make them a reality. The time and effort you put into this process should be rewarded. Whether the goals are for personal gratification or business growth, it is necessary to consider the ramifications if you do not achieve them.
When you set goals they must embody the following concept:
- Specific – You must be clear as to what it is you want to accomplish.
- Measurable –You must be able to measure your goals over the short or long term.
- Attainable – Your goals must be logical to accomplishing them.
- Relevant – Your goals must be pertinent to something or someone, such as your business growth and or family’s well-being.
- Timeline – You must be specific about your goal timeline so you can achieve them.
Prioritization is a Must
Why should prioritization be a vital part of the process? Too often, business owners tend to forget what they should focus on that will make the difference to their bottom-line. It is essential to refocus activities and mindset to achieving viable goals
The prioritization of activities must include a ‘To-Do-List’ or an action item list. The ‘to-do or action item lists are guides to effectively getting things done. And, it is important to accomplish goals within an effective timeline that helps you measure viability and deliver success. And, you cannot get this done otherwise. You must check items off the list or you’ll be l. Business owners, who do not focus their abilities, tend to end up with more problems.
And, don’t forget, the concept of prioritization is not always taken into consideration when making important decisions. However, it is important to use this process. The ability to prioritize helps to streamline processes, finances, staff, and much more. The key to prioritization is knowing the order of importance to put your goals, to-do lists, or anything else you need to get done.
Implementation – Getting Things Done
The third step in making 2020 a successful year for your business is the implementation process. You should not over-complicate the process. However, it would be best if you stick to an implementation plan for your success that is logical. Because using your SMART Goals strategy and putting things in order through prioritizing will help you implement and achieve your goals.
When you start doing the things you must do that can make a difference in your business, the opportunity for growth and success becomes a reality . So, plans implemented creates tangible achievements.
You should consider putting the list mentioned above to good use. You might plan to increase marketing, add a new product, hire new employees, or expand into new markets. Whatever it is your plan to do, follow the above process. They will help you surpass your wildest expectations.
It would be great to hear from you throughout 2020 on your progress! So, don’t forget to let us know how you are doing as the year advance.
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Blog post Author: Karlene Sinclair-Robinson has been dubbed “The Queen of Business Financing” and “Business-Knowledge Superstar” with over 15 years of business experience. She is the Bestselling Author of the book titled: Spank The Bank: The Guide to Alternative Business Financing. Over the years, Karlene has also been featured in numerous interviews and articles on the topics of Small Business, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Leadership, Women and more.
