Planning for Success: How to Prepare for the New Year

As we approach the end of the year, it’s time to reflect on past accomplishments and plan for future growth. This year, like every other, offers an opportunity to map out your goals and set a clear path for success. Here are some key points to keep in mind when planning for the upcoming year.

Know Your Values and Vision

Before diving into your annual planning, it’s crucial to understand what truly matters to you. Knowing your values and vision for the year will help you navigate the inevitable changes and challenges that arise. When you have a clear sense of direction, it’s easier to stay flexible and adapt as needed.

Set Growth Goals

Instead of sticking to a fixed revenue goal, consider setting growth goals. For instance, aim to increase your bookings by 10% or your prices by 15%. It’s also beneficial to establish multiple goals: a minimum goal, a medium goal, and a stretch goal. This way, you have various targets to strive for, ensuring you continuously aim higher without feeling disheartened if you don’t meet the most ambitious goal right away.

Implement Quarterly Check-Ins

Quarterly check-ins can significantly enhance your planning process. By breaking down your annual plan into three-month blocks, you can regularly assess your progress, identify what’s working, and make necessary adjustments. Reflecting on your achievements and areas for improvement every quarter helps keep your momentum and ensures you stay on track.

Address Gaps and Seek Growth

As you build your business, you may notice areas where you lack knowledge or skills. Integrate opportunities for learning and development into your yearly plan. Attend workshops, focus on improving specific aspects of your work, and invest in personal projects. This continuous growth mindset is essential for long-term success.

Prepare for the Unexpected

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Ensure you have a backup plan, emergency funds, proper insurances, and solid contracts. These measures will help you manage unforeseen challenges and keep your business afloat during tough times.

Focus on Your Mindset

A positive mindset is crucial when reviewing the past year and planning for the next. Celebrate your progress and achievements rather than fixating on what didn’t go as planned. The primary goal of having a plan and setting goals is to get closer to where you want to be, not necessarily to achieve every objective perfectly.

Weekly Reflections

Extend your reflective practices to a weekly basis. At the end of each week, evaluate what went well, what you accomplished, and areas where you can improve. This regular assessment helps maintain a forward-looking and optimistic approach to your work.

Join Our Annual Planning Workshop

Every year, we host a planning workshop to help you prepare for the year ahead. This year, it’s a one-day event, allowing participants to complete lessons beforehand and then join a collaborative session to finalize their plans. The workshop is set for October 23rd, with limited spots available in both Norwegian and English. For more details and to sign up, visit ingvildkolnes.com/minicourse.

Planning for the new year can significantly influence your success and the direction of your business. By setting clear goals, maintaining flexibility, and regularly reflecting on your progress, you can navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that come your way.

Want more?

Ingvild Kolnes is the host of the Sustainable Photography Podcast, an educator for photographers, and is ready to help you with your photography business. 

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144. Planning for Success: How to Prepare for the New Year

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