10 New Years resolutions every business owner should make

The new year has crept up on us, and that means it is time to talk about resolutions.

Like most entrepreneurs, I have always been goal-driven, and I see the start of a year as a time for reflection and renewal.

For some, the new year is the time to restart diets and exercise regimes, for others, it is a time to rekindle relationships or work on other personal ambitions.

For me, it is a time to reset focus, so I am able to step into the new year with the tools and mindset needed to tackle my big business goals.

Here are 10 resolutions I’m committing to in 2019 resolutions other business owners might consider as they welcome a new year: 

Plan better

So often, most of us are jumping from one task to the next, closing a big sale, launching a new product, developing a new service, hiring new employees, or putting out the many fires that erupt on a daily basis. But, it’s essential to take a step back and address the big picture. Ask yourself: what is the mission and vision of my business? and jot down the main tasks you will tackle in 2019 that will inch you closer to achieving your business goals.

Be kind and give back

Every one of us building an empire is doing it with the support (both financial and emotional) of friends, family, mentors and other businesspeople.  Why not show that same generosity to those less fortunate and commit to giving back in 2019.

Adopt a healthy work-life balance

Hi, my name is Deb, and I am a workaholic.

Every entrepreneur can admit to being a workaholic and understandably so because they have built their business and brand with their bare hands, from the ground up. However, the key to preventing exhaustion and stress is to set boundaries and adopt a work-life balance which includes a daily cut-off time and a commitment to reject phone-calls after a certain hour.

Unplug and disconnect

I have said it before and will say it again: taking time off is vital!  By going on holiday and removing all of your phone alerts and other digital nuisances, you will inject a sense of calm into your life.

Commit to at least two breaks throughout the year, where you eliminate the noise that comes with technology, and upon returning to your mobile device, you will feel profoundly refreshed and ready to kick big goals.

Revive one project you abandoned

We all have ideas scribbled on post-it notes, or folders stored in our computer with plans for a potential new business or money-maker.  Make 2019 the year you take another look at those notes – you may be sitting on a viable business plan that could take your brand to the next level.

Chuckle more

It seems like an odd resolution, however when I made a conscious effort to laugh more, I saw greater happiness in myself and those around me. And, YES, while I know growing a business can be strenuous work, it shouldn’t diminish your sense of humor.  In fact, laughter is said to produce a range of health benefits, including lowering stress.

Touch base with an old business contact

Business relationships, like friendships, fizzle out when not maintained. Each year, I like to make a concerted effort to rekindle contact with old colleagues, mentors, and business professionals I haven’t connected with for a while, you should do the same!

Conduct a security audit

The rise of data breaches continues to flood headlines, with big and small businesses crumbling at the hands of cyber criminals.  In 2019, I have decided it is vital to ensure my business takes appropriate steps to avoid a security breach and implements plans for addressing a security breach if one occurs.

Forgive Yourself

Made mistakes this year? Often the hardest person to forgive is yourself (I know from experience!). In 2019, make it your goal to forgive yourself for your shortcomings and move forward determined to do and be better.

Sit less, move more

Running a business is A LOT of work. And typically, that work is done sitting at a desk. With health experts dubbing sitting the new smoking, it is important entrepreneurs get creative about ways to get their butt out of the chair. TIP: instead of hosting a meeting in an office, why not have a walking meeting where you talk to the team while strolling around the block.