For many people, the new year is all about growth and change, resulting in goal setting and resolution planning. Unfortunately, the hustle and bustle of everyday life often render these goals forgotten by mid-February. This doesn’t have to be the case!

Read this for a few tips on how to set and keep your goals for the new year.  

1.  Stop and Reflect

Before you can make any significant changes or improvements to your business, you'll need to take an in-depth look at how the year went, what your business achieved over the last 12 months, and what did not work as you expected it would. The more detailed you can be in documenting and analyzing everything that happened in the past year, the better. Knowing your business's status as it enters into the new year will help you determine what milestones come next and what you can realistically achieve in the coming year. 

2. Think S.M.A.R.T.

As cliche as this statement is, it maintains its relevance. When planning goals, especially professional ones, they should always follow the S.M.A.R.T. method - specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

3.  Long-Term vs. Short-Term

Don’t just focus on your short term goals. Think about where you want your business to go long-term and what you would like to accomplish. What could you be doing now to better position your business for future success? Make sure you understand how 2021 will bring you closer to your ultimate goal.

4. Write Down Your Goals

Whether you type them or use a pen and paper, writing your goals down is a great way to solidify them in your brain. Written goals are not only easier to remember, but they are also more likely to be accomplished. Think of it as a method to maintain accountability. Once you write your goals down, you will be more likely to achieve them. 

5. Make Sure Everyone Is On the Same Page

You and your team will need to work together to accomplish your goals. Make sure to include them in the planning and goal-setting process and explain how they fit into the big picture. If your employees understand how they fit in the grand scheme of things, they will be more likely to get on board and help you meet your goals. Ask their opinions and listen to any insight or feedback they might have. A lack of cohesion and communication during the process can alienate your employees and undermine your progress.

Do you need help setting your company’s goals for the new year? Contact us to learn how we can help.