Every December, I take time to pause and reflect — because year-end results are not just about numbers on a spreadsheet. They’re about growth, lessons, and love for what we’ve built. Whether you’re just starting your small business or you’ve been building it for a few years, this is the perfect moment to slow down, look back, and plan ahead with intention.
When I first started my coaching business, I would rush into the new year without taking the time to reflect. I was juggling my work, my two kids’ school activities, and our busy family life. However, over time, I realized that wrapping up the year with reflection helps me see what’s truly working—and what’s not. It gives me the clarity and energy I need to start fresh.
So, let’s talk about how to wrap up your year with focus, love, and purpose — and get year-end results that make you proud.
Step 1: Celebrate Your Wins — Big and Small
The first step is to celebrate. Yes, even if it feels like you didn’t “do enough.” Every small success adds up to big growth. Maybe you landed a new client, started showing up on social media, or finally organized your workspace. These are all wins!
When my kids were younger, we had a tradition of sharing our “happy moments” from the year during dinner one night in December. Now, I do the same for my business. I write down three wins from each month. Seeing it all on paper reminds me how far I’ve come—and helps me stay grateful and motivated for the year ahead.
Step 2: Reflect on What You’ve Learned
Next, take time to reflect. Ask yourself: What worked well this year? What do I want to do differently?
I like to make this fun and simple. Grab a cup of tea, your favorite journal, and write out your thoughts in three columns:
Keep doing things that worked and made you happy.
Stop doing habits or tasks that cause stress.
Start doing and trying new ideas or systems next year.
This quick reflection keeps things clear and positive. It’s not about what you didn’t get done — it’s about what you learned and how you’ll grow.
Step 3: Organize Your Thoughts and Plans
Once you’ve reflected, it’s time to organize your plans for next year. This is where the “wrap-up” turns into action.
I keep things simple: one page for each goal. On each page, I write my goal, why it matters, and three small steps to move forward. For example, if your goal is to grow your email list, you might plan to:
Create one lead magnet.
Share it weekly on social media.
Send two emails a month to your subscribers.
Breaking goals into bite-sized steps helps you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.
If organizing feels hard, set a timer for 20 minutes and just start. You’ll be amazed at how much clarity comes when you put your thoughts on paper.
Step 4: Simplify Before You Start Fresh
Before jumping into January, take a few hours to clean up your digital and physical space.
Clear your inbox.
Organize your computer files.
Tidy up your workspace.
This small act creates mental space for creativity and new ideas. I love doing this while listening to holiday music — it makes it feel more joyful than like another “to-do.”
Step 5: Set Loving Intentions, Not Just Goals
This is my favorite part. Setting loving intentions keeps your goals grounded in purpose and intention. For me, every year starts with one word. In past years, my words have been grace, focus, and growth.
What word will guide you this year?
Consider how you want to feel while running your business — peaceful, confident, or joyful? Write it down and let it shape your goals. This heart-centered approach keeps you motivated even when challenges arise.
Step 6: Share Gratitude and Give Back
Gratitude keeps your energy high and your heart open. Before the year ends, send a few thank-you notes to clients, partners, or supporters who helped you this year.
When I do this, I often hear back from people who share how our collaboration made a difference for them — and that’s the best year-end result of all.
You can also give back in small ways: share a free resource, post encouraging words on social media, or donate your time to a local cause. Giving creates connection and community — two essential elements that every small business needs.
Step 7: Plan a Celebration (You Deserve It!)
Don’t forget to celebrate you. Being a business owner takes courage, heart, and resilience. You’ve shown up, even on the hard days.
This year, plan a small celebration. It can be a quiet coffee date with yourself, a family movie night, or a dinner with your business besties. Take a moment to breathe and feel proud of how far you’ve come.
Final Thoughts
Wrapping up your year with love and intention helps you see your journey clearly. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about making progress. By reflecting, organizing, and planning with heart, you’ll create year-end results that make you proud and set the tone for an amazing new year.
You’ve got this, my friend.
If you have questions or need support with business planning, please schedule a free clarity session with me. Click here to schedule now.
