The start of a new year tends to bring mixed feelings for business owners.
There’s optimism—maybe this is the year things settle, grow, or finally feel more manageable. And there’s pressure—because you know there are things you could do differently, or better, if you were clearer about what matters most.
Most of us didn’t start a business to feel scattered or uncertain. We started it to create income, independence, and a business that supports the life we want—not the other way around.
January is one of the few times in the calendar that naturally invites reflection. Before the year fills up with meetings, emergencies, and “urgent but not important” tasks, it’s worth asking: What deserves my attention this year—and what doesn’t?
You may have noticed a trend on social media and in articles lately about creating a “personal curriculum”—a self-directed plan of learning and growth that’s organized like a syllabus, but tailored to your own curiosities and goals. The idea is to bring intentional structure and reflection into your life in a way that’s both purposeful and satisfying rather than overwhelming. Inc.com
The “personal curriculum” concept is clearly connected to business, in my mind. When we design our focus—whether for learning, habits, or business strategy—we’re more likely to make progress that feels meaningful and sustainable.
A few years ago, I worked with a client during a slow part of his industry cycle. Revenue had stalled, confidence was low, and he wasn’t sure his second career was going to work out.
When I invited him to think in terms of doubling his income, he thought I was out of touch.
What he says now—often, and publicly—is that in the first year of working with our clear, focused business plan, his revenue doubled. By the end of year three, he had nearly tripled his business—from under $1 million to almost $3 million in closed sales.
That kind of progress doesn’t come from guessing or working harder. It comes from working on a Profitable Business Plan, one with clarity, focus, and better decision-making.
A one-time business consultation is a structured way to find that clarity. In a consultation, we explore what’s working, what isn’t, and what a realistic focus could look like for your business in 2026. Most people leave with clearer priorities and more confidence about where to put their energy.
Some people choose to move forward on their own after that. Others find that ongoing coaching helps with follow-through, accountability, and course-correction as the year unfolds. Coaching is optional, and only makes sense when it genuinely supports your goals.
This January, I’m making space for 12 thoughtful business conversations—not just to plan, but to think together about what’s truly worth pursuing this year.
If you’re feeling pulled in too many directions, or simply want to begin with more intention, this can be a useful way to start.
👉 Learn more or request a New-Year Business Consultation here.
Wishing you a clear, steady, and well-chosen year ahead.
Lorette Pruden has helped hundreds of small business owners, sales professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders grow their businesses and manage that growth since 2000. She specializes in the Formerly Corporate—so many small business owners who’ve worked with her come from a corporate background that she finally wrote the book on it.
