One thing that’s important in our business is to plan. So….how do we plan, but be willing to change and adapt as needed? I have typically been a “fly by the seat of your pants” type planner. It can be both good and bad. It allows for flexibility and to focus on what’s most important at the moment, but neglects long-term vision and strategy.
I have put intentional time and effort into planning for my business this year and want to share a few of the strategies I have found useful.
Visual or Analytical?
The other thing important to consider is whether or not you are a visual person or an analytical person. Most of us are both right brained AND left brain. However, I always assumed I was primarily left brain dominant because I excelled in math and sciences.
But this year when I integrated visual and creative ways to plan it really helped me.
Planning doesn’t need to be boring. It can be colorful/fun or analytical/linear…basically it can be whatever you need it to be to fit your personality and strengths the best.
Making Space to Plan
So many times we get caught up IN the day-to-day tasks of our business that we don’t work ON our business. It’s important to make space to strategize and plan.
At least once a year, I encourage you to evaluate where you’re at and where you want to go. There is power in setting written goals.
I wrote my goals out in my Passion Planner this year. I got mine through the Kickstarter campaign and love it.
Planning with Sticky Notes
This year I decided to take a different approach to planning out my year and it really seems to help me move forward. I use sticky notes! Below you can see a picture of my 2015 timeline.
Note: I blurred out the content as I’m not ready to publicly share all my plans just yet.
I’m also using the sticky note method both for monthly planning as well.
Watch My Video on How to Plan With Sticky Notes
I’ve recorded a video explaining the process I use to plan my month with sticky notes. This 13-minute video is part of my paid course on Mind Mapping With Sticky Notes, but you can watch it free here:
Click Here for Instant Access
Be Flexible and Willing to Change
I realize it’s important to set goals and have a plan to reach those goals. But I also realize it’s important to keep a loose grip on those plans and be flexible to change.
That’s one of the reasons I love sticky notes. I can move things around as needed but I’m still taking the time to plan. Plus, it satisfies the right side of my brain that is very visual.
How About You?
What works best for you? How do you plan best?
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