We're just past the one month point of 2025, making now the perfect time to check on your resolutions, if that's your sort of thing.
Personally, I think resolutions should be a little fun and help nudge us along a path we're already walking down. In 2025 I have a goal of saying "yes" more along with finding more opportunities for joyful movement. That means for cupcakes and more walks but hey, it's all about balance right?
If you're a small business owner, chances are that you've also set some goals for the business year ahead. Whether that's growing your team or growing your market share, or maybe even improving your customers' experience, the new year provides us with a nice benchmark moment to reflect on the year prior and look at where we're headed in the year ahead.
But why are resolutions so hard to keep? Why do some goals just seem insurmountable? I promise it isn't you, but it could have something to do with how we set our goals.
Connect to the "why".
When we set goals, we usually focus on the "what" instead of the "why." And while that might seem like the right approach, we’re actually more likely to stick with our goals when we connect them to a deeper purpose.
Maybe your resolution is just too big.
Sometimes, a resolution is better suited as a long-term goal—one where the light at the end of the tunnel is a little farther off. For example, if you love online shopping, committing to a full “no-spend” year might be too ambitious.
But setting a goal to stick to a monthly budget or adding to your savings before making a purchase? That’s much more doable and sets you up for success.
The same goes for your business. If you’re building or revamping your customer support practices, it’s better to set realistic, growth-focused goals rather than aiming for an overnight transformation.
Consider using SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Rewarding, and Time-specific—to keep you and your team on track. This approach helps break big goals into manageable steps, keeping motivation high and progress steady. By being strategic with your timeline and resources, you can create a growth plan that turns major goals into achievable milestones.
Other tips and tools
Building on our goal-setting journey, let's explore some additional strategies to set ourselves up for success.
First, it's crucial to anticipate potential obstacles and plan how to overcome them. For instance, if you're aiming to enhance your small business's online presence, consider challenges like limited time or technical expertise. By identifying these hurdles early, you can develop solutions, such as delegating tasks or seeking external support, to keep your progress on track.
Secondly, don't hesitate to adjust your goals as circumstances change. Flexibility allows you to refine your objectives, ensuring they remain relevant and achievable.
Lastly, celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. Recognizing these achievements not only boosts morale but also reinforces your commitment to your overarching goals. By embracing these practices, you're paving the way for sustained growth and success in your business endeavors.
You’ve got this!
No matter your business resolutions for 2025, Ruby is a trusted partner for thousands of small businesses where we serve as the long-term solution for their short-term goals. Learn more about us at www.ruby.com or check out our blog for more.
