It’s the start of 2025, and everyone’s talking about New Year’s resolutions!
Being healthier is always on my list, especially after December usually involves way too much eating and drinking!
What resolutions have you set? Will they still matter in February?
If I want to be healthier, then I need to plan out my daily walks and make a meal plan, otherwise nothing changes! Are you the same?
Here are five reasons why ACTION beats INTENTION every time:
Resolutions Are Vague, Plans Are Actionable
Resolutions often sound like: “I’ll grow the business this year” or “I’ll be a better leader.” These are nice ideas but lack substance. Business planning, on the other hand, forces you to get specific. What does “grow the business” mean? Does it mean increasing revenue by 20%, hiring two new staff, or launching a new service? A plan takes your goals and breaks them into actionable steps, so you know exactly what needs to be done.
Resolutions Focus on the Ideal, Plans Focus on Reality
A resolution is often based on what you wish would happen, while a business plan acknowledges where you are now and works from there. It’s about building a roadmap based on your current resources, challenges, and opportunities. For instance, instead of saying, “I want to take more time off,” a business plan might include steps to train a 2IC or automate key processes so you can step away without chaos.
Have you ever tried to take a two-week holiday without planning for it? Let’s just say that the emails won't stop and neither will the calls for help from your staff. In fact you will probably come back more stressed than when you left, due to the frustration of trying to take a break and not succeeding.
Resolutions Are for You, Plans Are for Your Whole Team
Business isn’t a solo sport. Your staff, clients, and suppliers all depend on you. A solid business plan isn’t just about your personal goals; it’s a tool to align your team. It gives clarity about what you’re all working towards, whether that’s improving profitability, streamlining systems, or increasing customer satisfaction.
When a plan is shared with the team, staff feel more engaged because they know what they are working toward.
Resolutions Die Quickly, Plans Evolve With You
The beauty of a business plan is that it’s not set in stone. A well-crafted plan is a living document that evolves as your business grows and challenges arise. If something isn’t working, you adjust. This adaptability is key to staying on track, no matter what the year throws your way.
Compare that to a resolution, which usually gets abandoned the first time life gets in the way!
Resolutions Give You Hope, Plans Give You Results
Hope is nice, but it’s not enough to pay the bills or reduce stress. A business plan focuses on outcomes. It sets targets, tracks progress, and holds you accountable. Whether it’s hitting financial goals, freeing up your time, or improving team culture, planning ensures you’re moving the needle in the areas that matter most.
One of my proudest moments as a business advisor was helping a client move from “firefighting” mode to a structured plan. Within six months, they had more time for their family, clearer financial goals, and a happier team. That’s the power of planning.
How to Start Your 2025 Business Plan
Reflect on Last Year: What worked? What didn’t? Use this insight to shape your goals.
Set SMART Goals: Make your objectives Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
Prioritise: You can’t do everything at once. Focus on the 2-3 goals that will have the biggest impact.
Break It Down: Divide each goal into smaller tasks and assign deadlines.
Review Regularly: Block time every month to check your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
At the end of the day, resolutions are easy to make but hard to keep. Business planning requires effort, but it’s that effort that transforms your goals into reality.
My advice.... ditch the resolutions and take the time to plan.
Your future self will thank you.
Need help creating your business plan?
As a business advisor, I specialise in helping owners like you turn big dreams into actionable strategies. If you’re ready to make 2025 the year your business thrives, get in touch!
I’ll set up a zoom and get to know more about your business!
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