So, this is Christmas, and what have you done? Another year over, a new one just begun.
The Holiday Season can be a very motivating time, as we reflect on the year that has been, and plan for the one to come. We want to help you harness this motivation and turn it into something constructive. And what better way to do that, then to write the ultimate list of New Year’s Resolutions for your business in 2021.
1. Define your purpose
If I asked you to, ‘describe your purpose?’ do you have a true, unwavering answer? It always surprises us how many people cannot answer this, working everyday with no clear intent. So, sit down, answer this question and pin your response on a wall in your office. Then, once your purpose is clear and in sight, start living it every single day.
2. Conduct a review
How do you know where to begin the year if you don’t know the current lay of the land? Pull out the fine-tooth comb and audit your business, examining everything from simple items like email signatures, all the way to P&L statements.
3. Set realistic, measurable goals for the year
Now that you have reviewed your business, set goals to create a clear path forward. Utilise short, medium and long-term goals with deadlines to act as guideposts. And remember, the key to achieving goals is being able to measure their success. So, be sure to add metrics and identify a way to track them.
4. Learn to delegate and do more of it
When you first start a business, you wear all hats. Slowly over time, its important for those hats to gain a new owner. You should happily pass on tasks, starting with those that are your weaknesses. Also consider passing on more operational tasks, so you have time to focus on key areas such as strategic direction.
And if you can’t delegate? Delegate the delegation.
5. Schedule time to work on your business
If you completed no.2 like I asked, then this one shouldn’t be too hard to start.
Look into potentially using a methodology or Coach to consistently drive the business in one direction. At ADITS, we personally use the Scaling Up methodology, through our Certified Coach, Paul O’Dwyer from Twenty Mile March.
6. Give back to your community
It’s important to support the people who support you. Look for opportunities in your local community, or those matters that are close to your heart. Aim for a consistent approach and don’t forget to tell people all about the good work you are doing to encourage them to do the same.
7. Set aside time for yourself
Contrary to popular opinion; you can live a very full life outside of your 9-5. However, it must be prioritised. When looking at your calendar for the year, be sure to block out key dates for personal matters, first. It does mean you can no longer use the ‘I forgot’ excuse for anniversaries and birthdays… but we won’t tell anyone if it happens again…
8. Bite the bullet
“I really should do this”
“I really should get onto that”
“One day, I’ll do this”
Sound like you? It’s time to bite the bullet! Whether it’s making an investment in your company, or in yourself, it’s important you take action. Many of our customers have either completed or scheduled major technology infrastructure upgrades in the beginning few months of the year. This way, they ticked off a major item on their list and started the new year strong.
9. Invest in your people
In order for your Team to be able to do their best work, they must be equipped to do so. Create a checklist of the items your Team need to succeed and invest in them, whether it be training and development, office ergonomics, or even regular check-ins and support sessions. Whatever it is, investigate and implement.
10. Cut your losses
Sometimes, you have to know when to let things go. We all have those items that we have been trying to make work for so long and are still proving unsuccessful. Attach a metric to those items and if after one month you are making no progress, cut it out and move on.
So, there you have it; our top 10 New Year’s resolutions for your business in 2021. We do not recommend you try and tackle all resolutions at once, but rather, take small steps to achieve a couple of items, before moving on to the next. Get ready to smash your goals in 2021.
Happy New Year!