Hey there! Kathy here.

As you look ahead, it’s important to know how to plan for the new year in a way that sets you up for success. Whether you’re looking to streamline your business, tackle new goals, or simply create a more organized routine, planning can make all the difference. I know as a solopreneur, it can feel like there’s always something on your plate, but with the right strategy, you can set yourself up for success without burning out. In this post, I’m going to share some simple and effective planning tips to help you make the most of the new year and take your business to the next level! Let’s dive in!

“Plan with purpose, execute with passion.”

– Kathy Schneider

As the new year approaches, how you plan your goals could make all the difference in your business. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of fresh starts and lofty resolutions, but let’s be real – most resolutions fade by February. Instead of setting goals that may not stick, I’ll show you how to craft meaningful, actionable goals that keep you focused and motivated throughout the year. With the right approach, you can turn those big dreams into tangible outcomes and see real progress in your business.

This Week’s Affirmation:

By aligning your goals with your vision, breaking them down into manageable steps, and tracking your progress, you’ll build momentum that lasts. No more scrambling or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that don’t align with your big picture. This method will not only help you stay organized but also give you the clarity and confidence to take action every day. Let’s get ready to make this year your most productive and impactful one yet!

Creating Goals That Matter: A Roadmap for Success

In this video, I provide a detailed roadmap on how to plan goals that are not only achievable but also deeply fulfilling.

*Be sure to watch the video to learn practical strategies for setting goals that go beyond typical resolutions, focusing on crafting goals that drive real results and align with your core values.

Turning Ambition into Actionable Goals

Planning effective goals isn’t just about ambition; it’s about strategy. While it’s important to dream big and aim high, without a solid plan in place, those dreams can quickly feel overwhelming or out of reach. Today, we're going to set up a system that ensures your goals are not only inspiring but also structured in a way that makes them achievable. By breaking them down into smaller, manageable steps, you’ll be able to track your progress, stay motivated, and make adjustments along the way. Let’s transform those big dreams into actionable steps that will lead you to success!

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1. Limit Your Business Goals

Start by selecting no more than 12 business goals for the year. I’ve tried fewer, and I’ve certainly tried more – let me just say, 12 is the limit. In fact, I’ve found 8 to be the sweet spot for me. This limitation helps maintain focus and ensures that each goal gets the attention it deserves so you can achieve what you set out to do. Limiting the number of goals you focus on allows for deeper dedication and better results.

2. Quarterly Goal Assignment

Assign each goal to a specific quarter of the year. This helps you manage your workload effectively and keeps you progressing steadily without feeling overwhelmed. Dividing your goals into quarters makes them more digestible and gives you clear deadlines to work toward. It’s about pacing yourself so that your energy remains high throughout the year, and you don’t burn out trying to achieve everything at once.

3. SMARTER Goals Framework

Utilize the SMARTER Goal Setting Framework to outline your goals. Your goals should be:

• Specific: Clearly define what you want to accomplish.
• Measurable: Ensure you can track your progress.
• Actionable: Break your goals into steps you can take action on.
• Risky: Challenge yourself—set goals that push your limits.
• Time-Keyed: Set deadlines to keep you on track.
• Exciting: Make sure your goals inspire and motivate you.
• Relevant: Ensure your goals align with your values and long-term vision.
  This framework will guide you in creating goals that are not only achievable but also engaging and aligned with your bigger picture.

4. Writing and Tracking Goals

Goals must be written down to solidify your commitment. I use Michael Hyatt’s Full Focus Planner to document each goal. Then, I track everything in Asana, and a SMARTER tracking spreadsheet created in Google Drive. Tracking your progress is essential, and it’s something I’m so glad I learned early on in my career. Make it a habit to check in regularly – daily if possible. This habit ensures that your goals stay in front of your mind, increasing your focus and motivation.

5. Regular Reviews

Regularly review your goals to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. Frequently reviewing your goals keeps you aligned with your vision and enables you to make adjustments based on any new information or changes in your business environment. By checking in regularly, you’ll stay on course and avoid feeling lost or off-track.

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Weekly Action Steps

Now that you have a solid plan for planning your goals, it’s time this week's action steps. These will keep you moving forward. Consistency is key; turning your goals into weekly tasks will help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Firstly, one Action Item for your business:

Next, here's one Action Step for your personal life:

I encourage you to consider implementing these Action Steps. They are here to make this week's lesson actionable… and not just another post to read! section as your personal productivity gym. Remember, I'm here weekly to support you on your journey toward peak productivity, helping you work smarter, not harder. With each step, you'll build new habits, refine your workflow, and unlock the full potential of your productivity.

Explore the Everything Page: Your Resource Hub for Productivity and Growth

Closing Thoughts: Setting Yourself Up for Success in the New Year

As you begin to implement these strategies, remember that how to plan for the new year is about creating a clear, actionable path that aligns with your vision and values. By setting realistic goals, breaking them down into manageable steps, and tracking your progress regularly, you’re setting yourself up for success and growth. This year can be your best yet, with the right planning and dedication. Take it one step at a time, stay focused, and trust that each decision you make brings you closer to the success you’re working toward.

Helpful Resources:

• Goal Achieving Habits You Must Embrace Today KathySchneider.com/47
• How Do You Overcome Obstacles In Achieving Goals KathySchneider.com/17
• Mindful Goals – the goal & habit tracker for high achievers KathySchneider.com/23