As the new year begins, it’s the perfect time to step back, take a deep breath, and ask yourself: Am I heading in the right direction – in business and in life?

Business ownership has a uncanny ability to make you stuck… you’re not 100 percent happy, but you can’t easily get out. It’s not like a job where you can just quit or apply for something new. 

That’s where vision, goals, & objectives come in. They help you start with end in mind and create a roadmap for the life you want to lead and the business you want to build. They help to create change. 

Here’s a practical guide to help you think big, define your ultimate vision, and take actionable steps to make it happen.

1. Start with the End in Mind

Before diving into the specifics, take a moment to dream.

• What kind of life do you want? Picture your ideal lifestyle, including your health, relationships, and personal achievements.
• What do you ultimately want your business to achieve? Think beyond revenue and profit – consider its impact, reputation, and legacy.
• And try to get a real sense of your Why. What really drives you.  

Write it all down, no matter how ambitious it feels. This big-picture thinking sets the foundation for your vision and goals.

2. Align your Personal and Business Vision 

After working with hundreds of business owners, we find that their direction is so much clearer and motivating when their personal and business goals are aligned. Think of:   

• Business Growth: Revenue, profitability, market share, or expansion.
• Lifestyle: Time for family, health, or personal passions.
• Personal Development: Skills, hobbies, or self-care goals.
• Team and Culture: Building leadership capabilities, improving workplace dynamics, or fostering innovation.

This step makes your vision more tangible and ensures you’re addressing both professional and personal aspirations. Rather than merely increasing revenue or profitability, your goals will be aligned with what is actually important to you.  

3. Define SMART Goals to Achieve your Vision 

Big goals can feel overwhelming unless you break them down. Categorise your vision into manageable areas:

Turn your vision into actionable goals that are:

• Specific: What exactly do you want to achieve?
• Measurable: How will you know when you’ve succeeded?
• Achievable: Is it realistic, given your current resources and circumstances
• Relevant: Does this goal align with your broader vision?
• Time-bound: When do you want to achieve it?

For example: Instead of “Grow the business,” try “Increase revenue by 20% by December 2025 by expanding into WA and NT.”

4. Identify the Skills and Knowledge You Need

Achieving big goals often requires growing your own capabilities or those of your team. Ask yourself:

• What new skills or knowledge will help me achieve these goals?
• What challenges am I currently facing that I don’t know how to solve?
• How can my senior leaders help me achieve this vision?

Programs like the Owner Manager Program are designed to equip business owners with the practical tools and strategies needed to achieve long-term success. If you prefer one-on-one guidance, consider working with a trusted advisory coach. Investing in personal growth is one of the smartest moves you can make.

5. Build a Detailed Action Plan

Once your goals are clear, create a step-by-step plan for achieving them:

• Break each goal into milestones: What can you accomplish in the next 3, 6, or 12 months?
• Assign priorities: Focus on the goals that will have the biggest impact first.
• Set deadlines: Create a timeline to stay on track. This is crucial to avoid strategic drift. 
• Allocate resources: Identify the time, money, or people needed to achieve each step.

Tools like project management software or even a simple spreadsheet can help you stay organised.

6. Seek Support and Accountability

You don’t have to go it alone. Share your goals with trusted colleagues, mentors, or peers who can provide feedback and hold you accountable. Joining a structured program like the Owner Manager Program can also connect you with like-minded business owners who share their insights and experiences.

7. Track Your Progress Regularly

Goals need regular attention to stay on track.

• Set aside time each month to review your progress.
• Adjust your action plan as needed – flexibility is key.
• Celebrate small wins along the way to stay motivated.

Tracking progress helps you identify what’s working, what’s not, and where you may need to pivot.

8. Don’t Forget to Revisit the Big Picture

As you work through the year, take time to revisit your ultimate vision. Are your goals still aligned with what you want? Circumstances change, and so should your goals if necessary.

Final Thought

Goal setting isn’t just a task to check off at the start of the year; it’s a ongoing process that evolves as you do. The most important step is to start. 

Think big, put your dreams on paper, and take that first step toward creating the business – and life – you’ve always wanted.

If you’re looking for guidance on how to achieve these goals or to gain the tools and knowledge needed to succeed, the Owner Manager Program offers an intensive, practical approach tailored specifically for business owners like you.

Next Steps…

Take a positive step forward and consider the Owner Manager Program – it will give you the clarity and direction you need to build the business and life you truly want. https://ownermanager.com.au/owner-manager-program/

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