As business owners, it is important to take time to self-reflect on a personal and professional level so that 2022 can be one of the best years for your company. It is specifically important to look back on your prior year, to see what you have accomplished and if you reached your business objectives. By taking this time annually to reflect on your prior year’s goals, you will be able to start creating what they will be for 2022 and can begin to craft a game plan for your company.
If you haven’t taken the time to see if you met your 2021 goals, you can get started by taking the following steps as you look back on the previous year:
What were your favorite accomplishments?
The first step is to look back on each month in 2021 and to think of one highlight or accomplishment from each. From there, you should choose which one was your most significant achievement.
What lessons did you learn?
As you reflect on the past year, consider the lessons that 2021 taught you. Ask yourself, what will you do differently in the new year? Have you developed a bad habit? If so, try to replace those negative behaviors with positive ones.
What is the status of your goals?
Next, begin reviewing what goals you had for yourself and your business last year. Did you accomplish them or did you have to adjust any? Look back on each of the goals you had and determine what needs to be changed for 2022.
Once you have reflected on the prior year, begin setting your 2022 goals. Consider the following as you start planning:
Create goals that motivate you
As you start setting your goals, be sure to create ones that truly motivate you. Begin with writing down why you chose a specific goal and how it benefits you and your business. Once you understand why you created this goal, it will help you to be more committed to achieving it.
Make sure your goals are specific
All effective goals should be S.M.A.R.T. meaning specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. By taking the SMART approach, you will be able to easily attain your goals. Consider writing down how you plan on achieving your objectives by listing the steps you will take to complete them successfully.
Areas you may need to develop
Every business owner has areas they need to develop in order to better themselves personally and professionally. Take time to talk with staff and team members to see if there are any areas they would recommend for improvement.
Overall, the best way to help your business grow is by checking in with yourself and becoming more self-aware. Set time annually to look back on your previous year and start learning how you can make the new year the best yet.
