Setting the Right Goals for Your Business

It’s that time of year again—you’re ready to set new goals for the next 90 days! But where do you even begin? You’ve likely heard of SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound), but there’s more to goal setting than just following a formula.

Do you start by reviewing recent financial data and identifying gaps in the business? Or do you build on current successes, modify your services or products, and proactively strategize for business development? For many of us, goal setting is also about revisiting our broader vision for the business. This reflection not only ensures that the goals we set are meaningful but that they align with our company’s purpose and values.

Revisit Your Core Values

Before diving into the tactical aspects of goal setting, take a moment to reflect on your company’s Core Values. Are they still relevant to who you are as a business? Have they evolved based on experience, growth, or lessons learned over the past year? Your Core Values are the foundation upon which all other goals should be built, guiding decisions and priorities.

If you find that your Core Values need refinement, now is the time to make those clarifications. Once you have a clear sense of your values, consider how they can be incorporated into your goals for the next 90 days, the next year, and even the next 10 years. Writing down practical methods to incorporate your vision into your plan helps turn ideas into tangible, actionable steps.

Don’t forget to keep your team accountable as well. Consider creating Core Values shoutouts during your weekly meetings to celebrate when someone exemplifies a key value. These celebrations will reinforce the importance of your values and help integrate them into the daily fabric of your business.

Turning Vision into Action

Setting the right goals requires alignment between your vision and your day-to-day operations. This means every goal you set should be connected to your long-term aspirations. For example, if your Core Values center on customer service excellence, then a goal could be creating a customer feedback loop or enhancing training for your team. If growth is a priority, your goal might focus on measurable steps for scaling your operations while maintaining the integrity of your values.

Ultimately, goals should not only drive revenue but also build a business that reflects who you are at your core. This authenticity will resonate with customers, partners, and your team, driving long-term success.

The Power of Focus: Why Saying No is Key to Success

Simplify your life by saying NO to anything that doesn't align with your top priorities. Here's how:

1. Identify What Matters Most

Take time now to pinpoint the 3 to 7 priorities that truly move the needle in your business and life. This will help you focus on the essential and eliminate distractions.

2. Create a "Stop Doing" List

Write down tasks or commitments that no longer serve your highest goals. If something still needs to be done, delegate it. Say NO to everything that’s not aligned with your top priorities.

3. Make Decisions with Focus

From now on, assess every decision by asking: Does this support my priorities? This mindset will simplify your life and create space for real progress.

4. Start Now

Saying NO isn't easy, but it's the key to deeper success. Focus on what matters, eliminate distractions, and transform your business and personal life in 2024.