PLANNING FOR A SUCCESSFUL 2016

I cannot believe today is the last Monday of 2015. This year has absolutely flown by (I know I say that every year). While I hope you've been able to take some time to step away from your business and recharge, I also hope you've spent some time planning and preparing for next year! I'm going to share with you the things that help me really get focused and organized in order to plan productively! I'd love to hear what y'all do too, so if you have some other suggestions leave them in the comments!


CLEAN HOUSE

I mean this in more ways than one. First, literally clean house. Clear the clutter in your living space and get rid of/donate all the things you don't use. Tackle your office. Make sure you're ready to take on 2016 with a clean, organized and inspirational workspace. I'm not sure why we hang on to things but you'll be surprised how great you feel when you let it all go.

After your home and workspace are tidy, clear your online life. First up, social media. Throughout the course of a year, you pick up lots of new "inspirations". Go through your social media and blog feeds and clear out what isn't serving you best. Don't follow people who bring you down or make you second guess your own abilities. This even includes the brands you admire. If you are constantly playing the comparison game and they make you feel less worthy, get rid of 'em. You've heard it before - comparison is the thief of joy, my friends. Follow people who inspire and life you up. We spend so much time online we should be careful who we let influence our lives. Then, clear the clutter in your Inbox, on your desktop and on your cellphone. Unsubscribe from pointless newsletters and delete unnecessary, unused or unwanted apps, software and photos. 

WHAT WORKED IN 2015?

It's always good to take a look at the things that DID work so you can continue to make those things happen. Celebrate your successes and figure out how to do it again. Rinse and repeat.

WHAT DIDN'T WORK IN 2015?

While it's helpful to pay attention to what DID work this last year, I think it's even more important to take a look at what DID NOT work. Say no to things that aren't bringing you joy. If it's not something you can stop right away because it's supporting you financially, than put a plan in place to help you reach your goal. Also, say no to things that aren't making you money. Remember you are running a business and you should be turning a profit. If you're not, reevaluate.

SET GOALS

I'm a big believer in naming your dreams and ambitions. Be as specific as possible. If there is something you want, put it out there and make it happen. YOU are in control of your life and you can't wait around for something else to make your dreams come true. 

REFINE

Don't be afraid to take a look at your goals to edit or nix them. You shouldn't be afraid to put an idea or project on hold either. Sometimes the timing is just not right. As creatives we want to do all the things, and knowing when is extremely important. You are (hopefully) constantly changing and evolving so your game plan should too. Don't be too hard on yourself and let your goals grow with you. 

What is one thing you'll be doing in 2016 to improve your business?

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