As 2023 is winding down, it’s time to start planning for the new year. But before you look ahead, it’s important to understand where you’ve been first. Evaluate what you accomplished this year so that you can get clear on where you want to go.
I take a reflective approach to annual planning with pen to paper. Seeing things written down can be powerful. Block off at least 90 minutes on your calendar to review what you completed in the past year. You can do this as a solo activity or with your team.
Helpful Hint: Try completing this activity off-site to give yourself a break from your routine. If you can’t sneak off to say, your favorite coffee shop for example, try picking a new spot or chair within your office space.
First, list the services or projects you completed this year. For McCracken, this list looks like client campaigns we delivered, projects we finalized, or services we provided.
Then evaluate the results. Did the project meet its goal? Did it contribute to your overall company goals?
Helpful Hint: Keep this list simple. A lot can happen in 52 weeks so begin the review process with a high-level check.
Another simple filtering process for evaluating the past year is creating a running list of what went well and what didn’t.
Now you can start mapping out the year ahead. By knowing what didn’t go well and recognizing where you might not have seen the results you were looking for, you can make more strategic decisions on what you want to focus on in 2024.
To map out the year more easily, break down goals by quarter and then by month.
What do you want to focus on? What do you want to try? Where do you need to pivot? Do you have company goals these need to ladder up to?
Helpful Hint: Remember, less is more. Try one new trend or strategy in the new year. It’s better to be crushing two things than struggling at five things. Give yourself the grace to expand on past goals. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.
This is where you can dream a little too. What would be an incredible project to work on? Is there a dream client you want to work with?
It’s our goal to help agribusinesses reach their goals. If you need support in thinking through these processes, consider having McCracken host a strategy workshop for your team. Reach out to us at team@mccracken-co.com.
