10 ways to prepare for 2018
So we are fast approaching 2018 and the panic has set in for many. How do I finish off the year? Did I complete everything I said I would? How much money can I make between now and Christmas? What exactly am I going to do differently in 2018?
Rest assured, this is a common feeling and dilemma that many entrepreneurs face and feel at the end of the year. The new year feels overwhelming but have no fear, I am here to share with you 10 ways you can prepare for 2018.
1. Do a brain flush
This simply means writing out all the ideas you have in your head in no particular order. Get it all out and on paper until you feel you have everything out so you have a fresh clean slate to start on
2. Write out a new goal
A goal not written is merely a wish list. To go into the new year, get very clear about what you want to happen in your life and your business. Write out a very specific goal which will highlight exactly what work you want to do, who you want to serve, how you want to serve them, how much money you want to make and by when you want to make the money.
3. Reach out to your clients and ask for a testimonial and a referral
Your past clients are your best clients…because they already know how awesome you are and will gladly spread the word once they have been blown away. So before the year is ended, ask them for a testimonial and a referral of your services so you can increase your client list and get more eyes on your business
4. Review your analytics
If you use social media to actively promote your business, then this is a great time to review your analytics. Have a look back over the year and take note of the posts and information you shared that performed really well. The post which got the most views or engagement. The blogs that had the most responses. The videos that had the most engagement. Spend time going through your analytics so you get a better sense of what resonates with your audience so you can do more of those things as you work to increase your visibility and brand presence.
5. Choose 10 books you have to read to help grow your business
As an entrepreneur we know that we should be continuously learning and growing. Books should be our bets friend whether in hard copy or as an audio book. Reading is a great way to keep on top of your game and stay motivated as you climb the ladder to success. There are so many great motivational and personal development books that continue to help us be the best that we can be. I recommend you start with
The Success Principles by Jack Canfield
Think and Grow Rich by Napolean Hill
The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
6. Make a list of collaborators
Collaboration is a great way to grow your business fast! The key is to choose persons who already have a great client base and add value to their existing clients as well as yours. Identifying who you want to collaborate with and why you think the collaboration is beneficial to both of you is bound to elevate your business in 2018.
7. Create a content list of all the topics you can share with your audience
By now you should have a clear idea of the information that your ideal clients need and want. Using bullet points, start to make a list of topic ideas that you would like to share during the year. The list will not be exhaustive but it should serve as a jumping off point for you to start the year off on the right foot. Your list can then be used to write value post, send emails to your audience, do live or pre recorded videos and so many other things. Planning in advance is key to the your successful growth
8. Identify 5 clients you have to land
No more shooting around in the dark. You know the clients you want to work with. You already know you your sweetheart client is and you understand exactly how you can make an impact in their lives. Start the year by writing out their names and how you plan to help them solve a challenge they presently have.
9. Choose a mentor
Having a mentor is one of the best things you can do for your business. No matter what stage of business you are in, it is great to have someone who has already been where you presently are to guide and support you along the way. There are many entrepreneurs who are willing to mentor new and budding entrepreneurs. Make a note of some of the people you really admire and seek them out as mentors. This will do wonders for your business, your moral and your motivation in 2018.
10. Identify 2 new skills you need to learn
Keep learning! It’s that simple. As we grow, we continue to learn. None of us have all the skills necessary to run a business. So we learn as we grow. Identify 2 new skills that you know you want to learn to improve your business and schedule a period of time during the year when you will start the process of engulfing yourself into learning that skill.
This list is by no means exhaustive, but it is a great starting point for you to overcome the overwhelm of finishing this year and taking a deep dive into 2018. If you still feel stuck, then I am just a click away.
