The Christmas holidays are a perfect time to stop and reflect on the year that has passed and to plan for the year ahead. Here are 5 tips to help you make the most of your time off.

1. Reflect on the year: The holidays are a time of reflection on where your business is going. Review marketing, sales and profit strategies, reflect upon what worked and what didn't, what you can improve upon, which products and services were profitable and which were not, so you can enter the new year prepared to tackle the problem areas of your business.
2. Set Goals: Just as you make New Year’s Resolutions to lose weight or eat healthier, take advantage of your business downtime to set some goals for your business over the next 12 months. Be sure to place your goals somewhere accessible so you can review them on a regular basis and evaluate your progress.
3. Get personal chores done: A strong personal foundation is essential to propel your business forward. Take advantage of your downtime to schedule your annual dental and eye exams and get any personal chores such as cleaning out the garage or organizing your home office out of the way so they don’t add to your stress later in the year when your phone is ringing off the hook.
4. Take time off: It’s vital to take time away from your business and recharge your batteries. Taking time away helps to relieve stress, avoid burn out and will have you returning in the New Year feeling rejuvenated and ready to tackle anything thrown your way.
5. Thank your support network: While we often take time to thank clients for their business, it's equally important to show gratitude to family. "Your family supports you through the thick and thin of your business. Take time to spend with your family and thank them for helping you in your business successes.

We want to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. If you aren't having time of this Christmas and are chained to your business, give us a call and we can develop a strategy to help you balance your work and family commitments.