What Do You Want From 2024? 5 Tips to Being More Intentional

What do you really want from the New Year? As the calendar turns to 2024, we are all contemplating our goals and aspirations for the year. However, while most of us will identify the things we want - such as financial stability, business growth, or personal fulfilment - not many of us take the time to really think about why we want to achieve these goals or make a solid plan to get there. 

Are you a business owner or entrepreneur? Do you want to be more intentional this year? Here are 5 ways to figure out what it is you really want, so you can chart your course for the year ahead.

1.  Define your own path

You may be surprised at this tip, but it doesn’t make it any less valuable. And that is to listen to your inner voice. There’s a lot of hype around the new year, meaning there are a lot of service providers peddling the message, “The best way to have a successful year is to spend your money with me,” and it can be easy to fall into this trap. So instead, take some time to reflect and understand what it is you truly want. 

Success isn't just about growth or material possessions; it's about your happiness and fulfilment. So what would make you fulfilled and happy? Whether you want to expand your business or maintain its current size, the key is to align your goals with your personal desires and aspirations.   

2.  Take a reflective pause

The past few years have been a rollercoaster for business owners. Brexit, the pandemic, the recession and inflation…you name it, it’s happened, and it’s been really easy to lose sight of our true priorities amidst the chaos. Now that things have calmed down a bit, however, now is the time to take a step back from your daily routine. Disconnect from work, even if just for an hour or a few days, and let your thoughts wander. Don't force your mind down one path; instead, be patient and see where your reflections take you. The direction your thoughts go is always a good indicator of where you need to focus your business and attention.

If you want to make 2024 a remarkable year, you need to take the time to identify what truly matters to you. Why? Because if you know your ‘why’, you will be energised to implement your plans. Too often, we are in the passenger seat of our own lives, so now is the time to focus on a destination that motivates and excites you to get in the driver's seat. 

3.  Shift from annual goals to daily habits

While setting big annual goals is important, the last few years have taught us that life can be unpredictable. So instead of fixating solely on long-term objectives, consider the habits you need to build for sustainable success. 

Your performance is a product of your goals and the habits you develop, so alongside your long-term vision, choose one big focus for the next 90 days. For instance, if improved sleep enhances your productivity, prioritise this habit in 2024 to support your overall goals. When you’re focused on getting that good night’s sleep every night, this will soon become a habit, and you’ll benefit from the power of consistency.

4.  Embrace fear and step beyond your comfort zone

Fear is a natural response wired into our brains to keep us safe from perceived threats. In the context of your 2024 plans, fear often arises when you're venturing outside your comfort zone. Our advice? Feel the fear and do it anyway!

As far as your brain is concerned, threats are anything that can be categorised as fear, uncertainty or doubt, all of which are necessary for business. So the next time you feel fear, this is not a sign to stop. Fear is a sign of progress, that you’re pushing your boundaries and growing, so instead of avoiding it, acknowledge it as a positive sign that you’re on the right track. 

5.  Seek guidance in essential areas

Once you have a clear idea of what you really want from 2024, now is the time to think about how you are going to get there. And in some areas, you may need help. If you want to make sure that your goals are financially sound and aligned with your business's overall strategy, consider seeking help from an accountant or financial professional. Whether you need guidance with goal-setting, budgeting, cash flow planning, or forecasting, they can help you make informed decisions that support your aspirations while ensuring your financial stability. 

Make 2024 what you want it to be

As you embark on the New Year, remember that your goals should reflect your true desires and aspirations. Avoid being swayed by external pressures and instead focus on what genuinely matters to you. This will help you to set meaningful goals and navigate the year ahead with clarity, purpose, and confidence.

Get in touch...

If you're in need of help with your credit control, budgeting, cash flows, or funding, our team of experts are here to help. Get in touch with our Business Development Manager today on (0121) 295 8884 or at charlie.sangha@informaccounting.co.uk to find out how we can help.