Reflection Before Resolutions: 5 Compelling Questions to Reflect On That Will Set You Up for Success in the New Year.

This is the time of year for not only celebrating and spending quality time with family and friends, but it’s also a time for reflection. If you’re a business owner, it’s important to take some time to slow down and reflect on the year’s successes, mistakes, what’s working, what’s not working, and improvements to make for your business in the new year.

It’s so easy to get caught up in the chaos of running your business and living life, that reflection takes a back seat. I want to be less reactive and more proactive with my business in the new year, and below are 5 compelling questions to reflect on that will set you up for success in the New Year.

1. What are you most proud of this year?

   Every year being in business for myself has gotten better and better. I booked several new clients this year who have been an absolute dream to work with. I feel that I’m starting to attract more of my ideal clients, and isn’t that what we all want?

2. What’s your biggest mistake or what are you least proud of this year?
   

   I’ve been running my graphic and web design business full time since 2011, but time management is still a struggle for me. I tend to over book each day, which leaves me feeling defeated when I don’t accomplish my entire to-do list. After awhile, the late nights and chaos that I’ve allowed to happen overwhelm me, and I burn out. I’ll be setting more realistic daily goals in the New Year to ensure my days run more smoothly.

3. What process or processes aren’t working for your business or what would you like to improve?

   For the longest time, I was tracking all of my billed time, invoices, and contracts with Excel spread sheets. How crazy is that?! I finally streamlined my bookkeeping and client experience by signing up with 17hats. Its been absolutely life changing! However, I haven’t taken the time to really sit down and develop contracts, templates, and automate this system. During my slow period, I plan on implementing these systems for not only myself, but to make my client’s experience better.

4. What’s your number one goal for the new year?

   I have so many goals, but if I had to pick just one, it would be to make time for more personal projects. As a designer, I get my energy from being creative, and nothing fuels creativity more than working on something with no restrictions. I have grand plans for creating a giant abstract canvas for our entryway, and I want to improve my photography. In particular, food photography. Something for me to do for myself, and just for fun with no pressure, no deadlines or design restrictions. Allowing myself this creative playtime makes me a better designer for my clients.

5. How will you bring more value to your clients?

   What can I say? I love my clients, and I want to make their experience working with me the best it can possibly be. Here’s how I plan to accomplish this:

1. 1. Streamline basic processes such as quotes, contracts, and questionnaires. Doing business with me should be hassle free.
   2. Keep learning. My goal is to always provide my clients with the best and most efficient way of doing business. Technology is always changing, and it’s up to me to stay on top of things and provide the most value to my clients. If I don’t know how to do something, I’ll figure it out.
   3. Manage my time better and avoid over booking, so I can provide the necessary attention to each project.

How are you reflecting on your business this year? Leave me a comment below.

Happy New Year to everyone!