Goal setting is essential for business owners, and there is no time better than the new year to get started. Reviewing the year that was—what worked and what didn’t—is an excellent place to start, as it helps to inform the road ahead.
“But resolutions are doomed to fail!” you cry, recalling your past attempts and the abandonment that followed. We like to think that things don’t have to be that way. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of mindset. How about instead of making hardcore resolutions (as we are so fond of doing), we instead set intentions?
Intent, while similar to resolve, is more directional than fixed on a set goal. This gives you more agility in the journey, allowing you to review, reiterate, and correct course if things go a little off the rails. Smart, right?
So, let’s talk strategy. What new year’s resolutions should businesses make to help them advance in 2023?
Top Business New Year’s Resolutions for 2023
1. Imagine the Possibilities
Visualize your business in five years. Where do you see yourself? If you can’t picture it, it probably won’t happen. Much like a golfer or baseball player visualizes the arc and trajectory of the ball, you need to be able to picture and project where your efforts will land you. Don’t be afraid to think big, either. The great thing about intentions is that any progress toward the goal is a step in the right direction. How fast you get there is something else entirely. Getting started is often the most challenging part.
2. Measure Your Progress
You’ll never know how far you came unless you measure. Even if you’re starting from zero, that’s still a number. Look at every aspect of your intention, define what’s measurable, and stay accountable. Small initiatives can be measured more often. Sweeping changes have more long-term motion and would be best measured monthly or quarterly. Whether you use a spreadsheet or an app to track your journey is up to you. Chances are you’ll be pretty surprised at what you’re able to accomplish. Progress always inspires us to push harder.
3. Make Time for Yourself
Small business owners have a lot on their plate. Most put a lot of pressure on themselves to perform, which almost always leads to burnout. And while you might not be able to afford to hire and train staff to lighten the load (yet), you’re no good to yourself or anyone else if you aren’t feeling your very best. Self-care is critical for small business owners and entrepreneurs! Every time you step away for a breather, whether it’s to take a quick walk around the neighborhood, get a massage, spend time with a good friend over a cup of tea, go to a movie, or take a yoga break, you refresh and revitalize your mind and body. When you return to your desk, you’ll be more ready than ever to take on the next challenge. Just do it—you’re worth it!
When you need help accomplishing your new year’s goals, the team at My Annapolis Office is always here to help with virtual office services, administrative support, meeting rooms, and so much more. Let’s get to work!
