Gosh, here we are, nearing the end of 2024: Are you thinking about where your business should be in 2025? Or are you just crossing your fingers that all will be well in the new year?
 
Since hope is not a business strategy, and neither is all talk and no action, a plan to achieve your desired results is essential. Here’s how to tackle that task.
 
Empty your head by jotting down your thoughts. Seeing your ideas, wants, needs and dreams converted into words on paper (or on your screen) is a great way to clarify where you are now and where you want to go in the near future.
 
First, take stock of 2024: what went well and – most importantly – what didn’t. You need a plan to course-correct and change whatever is within your control. Dig a little deeper to understand why those things didn’t work as you expected.
 
Start by focusing on issues generating the most anxiety. Keep writing. Begin to see what changes are feasible and what are not, and where you can influence outcomes. Identify little problems or needs you can address and solve immediately. 
 
But wait! If your business wants to go places, you need a road map: that plan to achieve your desired results. If you haven’t set goals for your business in the past, it’s never too late to start. We at Lumina Business Solutions recommend SMART goals, which describe not only the desired result, but also the individual milestones, deadlines and progress-measuring techniques needed to hit the goal. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Bound.
 
Setting SMART goals can help you achieve your objectives by making them clear, focused and easier to understand. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to discuss how Lumina Business Solutions can help. 
 
What areas might you want to improve in 2025? Your goals might include better tax mitigation strategies, HR processes (including employee evaluation), technology enhancements and staying abreast of compliance updates. 
 
Realize, however, that the path to better business results is littered with crumpled-up, neglected goals. Keep your goals in mind and be accountable for steady progress! Schedule deliverables every two-to-three months and keep moving in the direction you set. Hold regular meetings in your organization to discuss what’s been done and what the next steps are.  
 
As you follow your 2025 roadmap, think of your business goals as good habits you’ll establish. Focus on the execution of your plan and the small steps that will take you there. If you want to increase revenue, for example, focus on making the everyday changes that will lead to increased revenue. Schedule more frequent check-ins or other ways of gauging incremental progress.
 
As you articulate your goals and your road map for 2025, consider how much more you could accomplish with an expert business manager by your side. If your organization is not yet ready to hire a full-time employee to plot, drive and manage growth, consider outsourcing to a part-time (fractional) business manager such as Lumina Business Solutions.