As we hurtle towards the end of another year (seriously – where are they going?), now is traditionally a good time to take stock of what has happened over the past 12 months. It is at times like this that I always think of a line that features on our website from the indomitable Ferris Bueller – “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”*
It’s true. Everyday life takes over, time can pass by quickly and the next thing you know it we are looking at Christmas 2022! So, it’s important to sit down and look at what has happened and to also enjoy what is currently happening. This is true in all aspects of life, including business. Think of what your business has done and what you wanted to achieve over the past year. Did you do everything you wanted? Did you hit those targets? Did you even write them down (if you didn’t then there isn’t much you can do about it now so don’t worry)?
And even if you wrote down your goals and didn’t hit them then don’t worry, there’s always next year!
But whilst it is a good time of the year to reflect on what has gone, it is also a great time to plan ahead and write down some goals. Remember that a goal that isn’t written down is simply a dream. By writing down your goals you make them tangible and importantly you make yourself accountable! Sharing your goals with others in your organisation will help ensure that everyone will want to come along for the journey and be held accountable!
Be SMART
When we talk about goals (both with clients and when running Modulus) we think they should be SMART in that they are –
- Specific – For example building a business up for a sale
- Measurable – How much do you want / need to sell the business for (a financial plan is essential in this regard)?
- Achievable – Is the goal attainable and not impossible to achieve?
- Realistic – Is it within reach and relevant to your life / business / financial plan?
- Timebound – When do we need / want to achieve this goal?
This method will help set a goal, keep it on track and make sure that it is achievable (over time).
Hairy and Scary
Dale and I wrote down some hairy, scary goals for our first year in business. We hit some of them and we missed a few as well. But that’s life and that’s business. By writing them down we held each other accountable, and we pulled in the same direction to try and meet them. Goal setting doesn’t always have to be about the financial side of the business. One example is our Marketing strategy. Dale is Marketing Boy – he always has plenty of ideas. And whilst I might not be as good at it, I realise how important it is that we are on the same page and dedicate time to it. Our goal was to dedicate time each week to our marketing and social media. There is a clear strategy towards achieving our goal of being consistent in our approach. We didn’t go viral on our social media channels but that doesn’t matter because some day we will (hopefully).
Not all goals have to be big and hairy and scary though (but those are usually the exciting ones). A few small goals throughout the year, which will help with overall progress are also good to have. Hitting these goals can give a sense of achievement and build some momentum for the rest of the year and ultimately could help you achieve the big hairy, scary ones!
As always, if you have any questions or want to talk through anything in any of our blogs then please feel free to make contact with Dale or myself!
Take care, keep safe, Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
*I’m now off to watch Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with Dale as he hasn’t seen it yet! That’s my goal for this week!