At the start of each new year, I go on my annual retreat. I look forward to this time a ton! If you start this tradition as well, you’ll gain SO much momentum and head into the new year with clarity, focus and a renewed sense of purpose!
Why?
We need to take quiet time to review and reflect on the previous year.
Where?
- The only rule is, you cannot have this at home!
- I recommend a hotel or home rental.
- I recommend you spend time traveling there so you have time to think.
- It should be 2-3 days in length. You should go alone (for at least one full day).
How?
- Writing utensils (pens, pencils, highlighters)
- Poster boards or loose paper (get 12, enough for 1 per month)
- Sticky Notes
- Bible
- Journal
- Previous year items (calendar, business documents, etc.)
What?
- Wake up early (you can nap later)
- Exercise
- Consider fasting (not eating but still drinking water) for a portion of it
- Eat healthy foods
- Write a prayer for each of your kids
- Write a prayer for your spouse
- Write a prayer for yourself
- Write a prayer for your marriage
- Select some affirmations
If you own a business:
- Website comb-through
- Weekly agenda edits (for more and a free resource, click here!)
- Design edits to products/services or upgrades to your business
- Map out your CEO work
- Consider developing your “extras” (volunteering, etc.)
- Write company/staff prayer
- Select a word for the year (for your business)
- Map out your Marketing/Promotion calendar (for more, click here!)
- Approve/fill in the first quarter (12 weeks) at minimum
- Travel list (art shows, booth events, etc.)
- Set annual goals
- Chat with your accountant/bookkeeper
- Chat with your marketing/social media person (or other staff)
- Review reports and make necessary changes
- Go over my 3-5 year plan (DREAM BIG!)
- Brain dump ideas (think monthly holidays, supplies, etc.)
- Categorize them into themes
For Personal Use:
- Select a word for the year
- Set personal annual goals
- Food System edits (for more, click here!)
- Take time to worship
- Clean and organize your phone apps
- Clean out pictures and videos from your phone
Execution Plan:
- Allow yourself time to implement your plans
- Talk to someone about what you learned and have planned (staff, family, etc.)
- Key Decisions podcast (listen here!)
Your Next Steps:
We got this Encouragers!