Brandmerry Blog Archives
Navigating a Brand Refresh: A Behind-the-Scenes Look for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners
This week, I'd like to take you behind the scenes of my recent brand refresh, which resulted in a brand new website and an updated podcast.
This episode is a continuation from last week where I talked about knowing when it's time for a brand refresh and signs that might indicate it’s time you refreshed yours as well.
Now, I’m sharing my process (the same process I use with clients) and some of my top tips!
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
The simplified process, I use and guide my clients through to make updating their existing brand so much easier.
The crucial role brand messaging plays in the success of your website.
The importance of having a trusted person in your corner for feedback, and why I don’t recommend asking just anyone!
**I’ve included the main points below, but encourage you to dive into the full episode via audio or video!
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 107 now.
The Brand Refresh Process
The process I use for revamping my brand is the same one I teach my clients. The duration of the process depends on how developed your brand already is, but following this simplified framework will save you so much time. For recent goal was to execute the brand refresh within two weeks, which I’m pretty proud I was able to stick to.
I cannot overemphasize the importance of setting some sort of timeline for a brand refresh process. The longer it takes, the more you divert yourself from other business activities, especially those that generate revenue.
1. Map It Out
The initial step is to map it out. Determine the pages you'll have on your website and the key elements you want to include. This is also a great time to determine your overall vibe, aesthetic, and feelings you want to portray with your new brand refresh.
2. Seek Design Inspiration
The next step after mapping it out is to seek design inspiration. This is where tools like Pinterest come in handy. Remember, the goal isn’t to replicate another brand but to find elements that inspire you and make them your own. I like to piece together various templates to get started, but as you’re looking if you find a template you love, that’s an excellent place to start.
3. Verify Your Messaging
Before you go ahead and start designing your website, start with your messaging. A beautifully designed website amounts to nothing if the messaging isn't on point. Jot down the core messages you want to communicate, and then use that to write out each of your website pages.
PRO TIP: Create a Google Folder for your website refresh, and then individual pages for your Home, About, Services/Sales Page, Blog, etc…
Looking for some inspiration? Here are some bonus resources:
4. Gather Design Materials
Next, gather the design materials you'll need, the main of which would likely be brand photos. Always ensure the images you select complement your brand and the vibe you want to get across to your audience.
Check out this recent episode I did on the brand photoshoot that prepped me for my brand refresh.
5. Laying It Out
The next part of the process is to start creating the design layout. During this process, you’re in the nitty-gritty of laying out your website on your platform. I use Squarespace and highly recommend them. By this point, you should have 80% of the pieces laid out and will just need to add them from your Google Docs to the site, as well as customize any font changes or brand colors you may be changing.
6. Revisions
Revising, or revisiting, can take a few days. I suggest building a page and then setting it aside. Refresh and come back to it. I recommend doing this several times, sleeping on it each time and looking at it with fresh eyes. We’ll talk about getting an outside perspective a little later, but this is a great time to do it!
Behind the Scenes: Tips for A Successful Brand Refresh
TIP #1: GATHER INSPIRATION WITH BLINDERS ON
While the goal is to gather inspiration in the second step of the process, you have to make sure you don’t get consumed with what others have previously created. Always remember, what you’ve identified as your main values, and overall vibe for your brand and hold to that. I like to set a limit for myself for how long I’ll stay in this stage. I typically only give myself one day, or 2-3 hours before I move on.
The goal is not to mimic what others are doing, but to give you a really great idea of what you like, and dislike, and where you want to get started.
TIP #2: DON’T SKIP THE BRAND MESSAGING
Your brand messaging is crucial. Therefore, before you start designing please solidify your brand messaging. What you say and how you say it should rely on your authentic voice, and your ideal customer’s profile. Speaking of your ideal customer, make sure before you start writing, to check in on your existing profile. Is your ideal customer changing? Is it shifting in some ways to reflect your new brand direction?
Looking for some of my tips? Watch this Ideal Customer training video here.
TIP #3: DEFINE YOUR VIBE
Take time out to determine what the overall feel of your brand would be before looking for inspiration. Recognizing your brand's vibe will help keep you on the path throughout the refresh process. For this refresh, I knew I wanted to design to be simple and minimalistic. I also knew I wanted the copy to stand front and center, and offer some dynamic elements with the text. What are you looking for with your brand refresh and how do you want people to feel?
TIP #4: SET DEADLINES
Do yourself a favor and set a deadline for your brand refresh launch. You don’t want this process to take forever, and it really doesn’t have to. I find that choosing a date 2-3 weeks out is enough time to get the pieces in place. I also encourage you to break the process down into tasks, and set deadlines for those as well. When will you complete your Home Page? When will you have your About Page done? Etc…
TIP #5: PULL FROM THE PAST
If you're going through a refresh, it's likely that there have been past content or copy that resonated well with your audience and you enjoyed. It’s also likely that some of the topics you experimented with in the past are relevant for your new brand direction. I love pulling these pieces, and studying them to see what I still love. You also don’t have to reinvent the wheel with every page you create. If you already have an About Me page go through and audit it as a starting point.
This was such a fun process for me to dive deep into past content I had around brand storytelling and discover how I could repurpose and refresh it!
TIP #6: A WORD TO THE WISE ABOUT FEEBDACK
Don’t just hand your baby over to anyone to provide feedback! I know it can feel tempting to ask your best friend, or mom to review your website and provide notes. However, it’s important that the person offering feedback is either your ideal customer or knows your brand and ideal customer really well.
This can make all the difference in how you proceed with your brand. I’ve received advice before that had me second guessing some of my decisions, when in reality the feedback I was getting wasn’t relevant to my brand.
This is also an opportunity to work with a coach, through the brand refresh and have them provide feedback prior to launching. Learn more about how I work with my clients here.
CONCLUSION
Brand refreshes are essential parts of brand development and growth. You’re going to go through a lot of changes throughout your time as a business owner, and it’s only natural you’ll want your brand change over time.
My biggest piece of advice is to trust yourself throughout the process. Really take the time to understand your ideal customer (revisit if things are shifting) and focus on your messaging.
This will ground you as you refresh your existing brand and step into your new chapter!
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
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DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
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MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
Is it Time for a Brand Refresh? Four Signs to Consider
In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, staying relevant and maintaining a strong brand presence is essential.
As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves questioning if it's time for a brand refresh.
In this week’s episode, I’m sharing my own journey of refreshing my brand while providing some of the top reasons I was ready to update my brand. If you’re a business owner considering a rebrand or refresh, these four signs will help you determine if it's time for your own update.
Inside today’s episode of the Authentic Brand Builders podcast, we’ll dive into:
The mishap I made in 2022, when I thought I was ready for a brand refresh, but wasn’t.
The process I went though to determine it was time to update my existing brand, and how I knew!
The four things to consider when going through your own brand refresh so you don’t rush into anything.
**I’ve included the main points below, but since this is a vulnerable episode listening gives you the full experience, and I highly recommend it.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 106 now.
Four Signs That Indicate It's Time for a Brand Refresh
Here are the four signs to consider when thinking about a brand update:
Brand Refresh Consideration: Your Offers Are Changing
If you find that your products or services are evolving, this can be a clear indication that it's time for a brand refresh. If your offers are evolving or if you no longer resonate with a particular service/product, it's crucial to assess how these changes align with your existing brand.
Consider whether the alterations fit seamlessly within your current brand structure or if they signify a significant shift that warrants a brand refresh.
Actionable Steps:
Examine if your current offerings align with your business goals and your evolving preferences.
Determine if the changes can seamlessly integrate into your current brand or if a more comprehensive refresh is needed.
Brand Refresh Consideration: Experiment with Your Content:
Experimenting with different topics and evaluating how they resonate with you can provide valuable insights. The key is to pay attention to what truly excites you and what feels aligned as you’re creating it.
This experimentation can help you determine if it's time to shift your messaging and branding accordingly. Remember, your content should align with your passions and be enjoyable to create. If you find certain topics uninspiring, it might be time to adjust your brand focus.
Actionable Steps:
Try discussing diverse topics over a defined period (e.g., a week) to gauge your feelings and creativity.
Assess audience engagement and your personal satisfaction with different content types.
Ensure the topics align with your brand messaging; consider adjustments if needed.
Brand Refresh Consideration: Assess your Long-Term Vision:
Your long-term vision for your brand and business may shift as you grow and evolve personally and professionally and that’s 100% ok.
Take the time to reassess your goals and aspirations, and evaluate if your existing brand still aligns with this vision.
If not, it might be time to consider a brand refresh.
Actionable Steps:
Take time to reflect on your long-term vision and whether it aligns with your current aspirations (remember it’s ok to change).
Ensure that your brand's mission still resonates with your goals and values at this stage of your journey.
Adjust brand elements if necessary to reflect any shifts in your long-term vision.
Brand Refresh Consideration:You've Changed as an Individual:
Personal growth often leads to shifts in priorities, values, and lifestyle, impacting how you present yourself through your brand. Acknowledging these changes is vital for maintaining authenticity and relatability with your audience.
I changed a lot over the past year and wanted a brand that reflected that. If you’re feeling the same way, it might be time.
Actionable Steps:
Reflect on personal growth, changes in values, and shifts in priorities to see if your brand is aligned with where you are now.
Assess whether your brand currently aligns with the person you have become, and if it doesn’t - let’s change that.
Consider adjustments to brand elements, ensuring they authentically represent your current self.
CONCLUSION
Knowing when it's time for a brand refresh is a pivotal moment for every entrepreneur. By recognizing the signs and looking for alignment with your evolving business, you can create an authentic brand that resonates with your audience.
Whether it's adapting your offers to match your growth, experimenting with different content, reassessing your long-term vision, or acknowledging personal changes, a brand refresh can be a powerful way to invigorate your business and drive it forward.
Remember a brand refresh is not a sudden, overnight change. It is a process that requires evaluation, experimentation, and patience. I encourage you to continue showing up for their clients and audience while working on the necessary brand updates behind the scenes.
Are you feeling called to start your brand refresh? I’d love to connect. Explore the website to check out the new branding, and be sure to submit your details and inquiry here to see how I can support you with your brand refresh this year.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Ready to build a revenue-generating brand? One that not only stands out online but also makes it easier than ever to create high-value content? Tune in to my free brand class and learn my Build a Better Brand Method. Watch now at brandmerry.com/class.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
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DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
When Plans Don’t Go According to Plan as a Business Owner: Reflecting on 2023 and Unexpected Change
Episode 105, celebrates the final episode of 2023, and I want to share with you that my year did not go according to plan.
I know it might not feel like a shocker to you, that not everyone’s life goes exactly as planned, but I find it just isn’t talked about a lot in the entrepreneur and small business world.
It's been a year of growth, redefining success, and finding joy in the unexpected. Join me as I reflect on the past year and share the valuable lessons I've learned to support you on your journey.
While it's not always easy to be vulnerable and transparent, like I am in this episode, sharing our real experiences can inspire and connect us on a deeper level, and I’m here for that!
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
How my plans shifted in Q2, how I reframed my belief around my goals, and how it impacted the rest of my year.
My area where I grew the most (hint: it’s outside of business, but plays such a vital role).
How previous content I had created supported me in rediscovering what time management and scheduling looked like for me.
**I’ve included the main points below, but since this is a vulnerable episode listening gives you the full experience, and I highly recommend it.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 105 now.
Reevaluating Priorities and Redefining Success
In past years, my focus was on growth and always pushing for more. This year was no different. I had full intentions of growing my business revenue this year again.
But this year, I made a conscious decision, heading into the year, to prioritize my physical, emotional, and mental health.
Throughout the year, I embarked on a personal growth journey, working on my hormone health, physical well-being, emotional and mental health, and redefining my relationship with food and alcohol.
These changes took a lot of energy and attention, impacting how I showed up in my business. I quickly realized that personal growth sometimes requires shifting priorities and embracing a sustaining year in business.
This shift meant reevaluating my goals and realizing that sustaining and maintaining a healthy balance was more important to me than growing the revenue.
It was the first time I changed my intention and looked at success from a different perspective after the year had already started.
Navigating New Schedules and Boundaries:
As I prioritized my personal journey, I found that my schedule had to adapt accordingly.
Taking over homeschooling my son was a significant shift and required relearning how to balance work and family life. I had been so disconnected from the “juggle” over the past three years since my husband was home full time, homeschooled our son, and managed most responsibilities around the house.
With this shift, which wasn’t expected, I had to almost relearn all my old strategies around time management. I had to tune back into how I structured my days back in 2016 and 2017 when I was first growing my business.
For the first time ever, I looked at time management as a game. I decided that we could experiment with different routines and schedules, having no attachment to one rhythm working over the other, until we found one that worked for us.
So, the next time you’re feeling pulled in a million different directions, try to make it an experiment or a game to find your routine!
Discovering New Hobbies and Influencer Culture:
Amidst the changes, I rediscovered the importance of hobbies and passions outside of work and family. Gardening, cooking, crafting, and reading became outlets that brought me joy and helped me reconnect with nature.
As someone who has been really focused on her business, I realized that while I love my work, it’s hard to have a hobby around something that you run like a business.
Tapping into these hobbies and simplifying how I consume content and make purchase decisions, also led me to reflect on influencer culture and consumerism, prompting me to reflect on how I show up as an influencer and prioritize sustainability and authenticity.
This is something that I’ll be pulling into the new year, and reflecting this shift in my own marketing as a business owner and brand.
Adapting and Embracing Unexpected Opportunities:
This year taught me the value of being adaptable and embracing unexpected opportunities. Although things didn't go as planned, I was able to pivot, make aligned decisions, and celebrate what I accomplished.
Reframing setbacks as blessings in disguise allowed me to find new paths and refocus my priorities and I’m feeling so grateful for these lessons as they will be impacting my plans and decisions in the future.
So, if you’re feeling like you didn’t accomplish what you wanted to this year, I hope you can find the silver lining in the lesson.
And, as you plan for the new year I highly recommend that you embrace checking in with yourself every 90 days to make sure that your decisions feel aligned, and you’re still on an authentic path.
These checkins helped me so much this year to reframe, make adjustments and keep going.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
P.S. Looking for a more adaptable way to plan for the new year? I’ll walk you through my 6-step process inside of Brand New Plan, which pulls on seven years of experience planning as an entrepreneur. Learn more at brandmerry.com/newplan
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DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
5 Marketing Predictions for 2024 that Every Entrepreneur and Small Business Owner Needs to Know
I love this annual tradition that we have here on the podcast where I share my marketing and business predictions for the next year.
So today I want to share with you my 2024 marketing predictions so you can be ready as we approach another year in business. You’re specifically getting 5 key trends to watch or adapt to your current marketing strategy, with an emphasis on customer connection.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
My top five 2024 marketing predictions for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
How video marketing is changing once again, and why you’re going to love this shift!
How you can meet customer demand and connect with your customers utilizing the power of brand storytelling.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 102 now.
1. Video Marketing: The Return of Long-Form Content
Video marketing has been a significant trend in recent years, with the demand for video content continuously increasing.
While short-form videos took the spotlight in platforms like TikTok and Instagram, we anticipate a shift towards longer-form video content in 2024.
TikTok, known for being ahead of trends, has started favoring long-form videos, indicating a potential industry-wide shift.
Embracing long-form video content can provide you with an opportunity to connect deeply with your audience and repurpose your content across multiple platforms. As a repurposing queen, I can tell you focusing on long-form content in 2024 is a must!
2. Customization and Personalization: Going Beyond First Name Emails
Personalization has been a powerful marketing tool, but consumers are starting to demand an even deeper level of customization.
Simply inserting a first name into an email isn't enough anymore. To truly stand out, brands must make their audience feel seen, heard, and understood.
One way to achieve this is through personalized outreach.
Consider reaching out personally to warm leads or leveraging direct messaging platforms to connect with your audience more intimately.
Additionally, customization involves your brand messaging. By creating messaging specifically for your ideal customer you have the power to make them feel like you're speaking directly to them.
This marketing approach will be essential, making ideal customer work very important, as we continue to see more and more content being shared online.
3. Beyond Email Marketing: Creating Small Communities
Email marketing has been effective for year, and while growing your email list should still be a priority in the new year, it’s time to expand our communities.
In 2024, I predict the rise of small communities outside of traditional email lists.
Platforms like Instagram are introducing features that allow entrepreneurs and public figures to create exclusive communities for their audience. By leveraging these communities, you can engage with your audience in new and exciting ways, leaving behind the limitations of email marketing and exploring alternative channels for communication and connection.
As our ability to track open rates and click-through rates has changed, this extra layer of touchpoints will make all the difference in conversions.
4. AI Tools for Efficiency and Brand Authenticity
Artificial intelligence (AI) has become prevalent in marketing, offering tools to streamline workflows and enhance creative processes.
In 2024, we obviously know that AI tools will continue to evolve, helping businesses save time and energy.
However, with this user increase brand authenticity will be crucial in utilizing these tools effectively. By feeding AI tools accurate information about your brand, ideal customer, voice, tone, and key messaging, you can leverage AI to generate aligned content.
Understanding your brand foundations and communicating them to AI tools will ensure that your messaging remains authentic and resonates with your audience.
5. Brand Storytelling: The Key to Differentiation
Amidst a sea of regurgitated information and templated marketing, brand storytelling is becoming more crucial than ever.
Telling authentic and impactful stories allows you to connect deeply with your audience, differentiate yourself from competitors, and make your brand memorable.
Incorporate storytelling into every element of your marketing strategy, from emails to social media posts, captions, videos, and webinars.
By sharing personal stories, lessons learned, and moments of vulnerability, you invite your audience into your world, fostering a sense of connection and trust. And, we all know this is where true business success lies.
CONCLUSION
As we approach 2024, it's essential to tap into the power of storytelling and embrace the emerging trends in marketing. Video marketing, customization, personalization, small communities, AI tools, and brand storytelling are all poised to shape the marketing landscape in the coming year.
By staying ahead of these trends and infusing your marketing strategy with personalized and compelling stories, you can create an authentic and powerful brand that resonates with your audience.
I’m excited for you to embrace the power of storytelling, build authentic connections, and watch your brand flourish in the year to come.
Explore ways we can work together here.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
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FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
LEARN HOW TO WRITE AN ‘ABOUT ME’ PAGE THAT CONVERTS
MAP OUT 30 DAYS OF CONTENT IN UNDER AN HOUR
Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.
Check Out the Latest Posts
Must-Reads on the Blog
A Simplified 6-Step Process to Successful New Year Planning for Entrepreneurs
In a recent podcast episode, I shared insights into a brand-new planning course designed exclusively for entrepreneurs.
Today, I want to give you a glimpse into my signature planning process, by walking you through the steps I use to plan each year in business. Not only will I provide you with a sneak peek into some essential questions, but I'll also guide you on how to implement this framework as you prepare for the year ahead.
Pro tip: If you're eager to take your planning game to the next level, consider checking out my course, Brand New Plan, at brandmerry.com/newplan. This program was created to help entrepreneurs create authentic goals and align their planning strategies with ease.
Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:
The 6-step process I use to plan my business each year that ensures I remain consistent at a 6-figure minimum.
The important pre-planning phase that most entrepreneurs skip, but will make your process so much easier
The exact questions to ask yourself at each stage of the planning process, and what data is essential to have.
For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 102 now.
Step 1: Dreaming Big - What Do You Want?
The foundational step in this transformative planning process is to take time and dream about what's possible for your life and business in the upcoming year. This is not about data or strategy; it's about envisioning the impact you want to create and the experiences you desire in the year ahead.
Spend 15 to 20 minutes journaling on what you desire or use the prompts inside module one of Brand New Plan to explore your aspirations for the year ahead. Remember, this dreaming phase sets the stage for authenticity and alignment throughout the year.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
What do you want your business to look like in the new year?
What do you envision your business doing, and what impact do you envision having?
What experiences do you want to see happening in your business?
What do you want to see and experience in your personal life?
Step 2: Reflecting on the Past and Present - A Holistic Assessment
Before diving into the nitty-gritty details of planning, it's essential to reflect on the past year. This involves a personal reflection on your feelings, identifying what excites you, and discerning the aspects that don't align with your vision.
Simultaneously, I recommend conducting a business audit, evaluating factors such as lead generation, offer performance, and overall business sentiment. It’s important to take this pause before the new year to assess how things are feeling, what you love about your work, and what you don’t.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
How does your business feel overall?
What feels great, and what doesn't feel great in your business?
What excites you, and what doesn't excite you about your business?
What aspects of your business do you want to carry into the new year, and what do you want to leave behind?
Step 3: Choosing Your Goals and Revenue - A Shift Towards Authenticity
Avoid the entrepreneurial trap of setting goals based on external expectations.
Instead, prioritize your top personal and business goals for the year, and identify the shifts needed in your habits to align with these objectives. When it comes to revenue goals, embrace a process that allows you to authentically choose numbers reflective of your priorities, both in business and personal life.
It’s a great idea to think about the things you’d like to accomplish this year on a personal level and think about how your business can support you in reaching those goals. Remember, our business is meant to complement our lives not take away from them.
Inside Brand New Plan, I guide you through this process, but to help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
What are your top priorities for the new year as a business owner?
What business habits feel aligned with your goals?
What personal priorities should be considered alongside your business goals?
How do you feel about your revenue goal? Does it feel possible, scary, or easy?
Step 4: Defining Achievable Goals - Your Yearly Roadmap
With your overarching goals in mind, start determining what your main goals will be in both your personal and professional life. I suggest choosing no more than three goals for your business and three goals for your personal life.
You also want to map out what habits you’ll need to get there! This is part of the identity shift and all of your goals are going to require consistency. Determine what those habits will be and consider utilizing a habit tracker.
As a reminder, this step is about determining your big three focuses in both areas so we can then create a monthly focus and actionable quarterly plan.
Step 5: Monthly Themes - Shaping Your Year with Intent
At this step, you want to choose monthly themes for your yearly roadmap. It’s not just about breaking your three main goals into smaller projects, but also assessing how the seasons and holidays impact your life and business.
Inside Brand New Plan, I encourage you to dig deep into your seasonal changes both in life and business, as well as take into consideration holidays. Knowing this BEFORE you plan your months is key. It helps you better understand when you can go all in and when you need to pull back.
While we’re not quite at the detailed checklist yet, you do want to try and categorize which months you’ll focus on and what projects will help you reach your end-of-the-year goals.
To help get you started, here are some questions to consider:
Are there specific seasons where you can give more or need to pull back?
Which holidays are important to you personally, and which are impactful for your business?
How do seasons and holidays impact your monthly focus?
Step 6: 90-Day Planning - Navigating the Details
Now, it’s time to dive into the specifics by focusing on a 90-day plan. Break down your goals for the next three months, identifying the steps required for each project you’ve deemed the priorities.
Prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and leverage task management tools to keep yourself accountable. I love using Clickup for this approach because it allows for flexibility, adaptation, and constant alignment, plus it keeps me organized and on track.
I also utilize ClickUp to track my daily, weekly, and monthly business habits. These habits serve as the backbone of your journey, keeping you on track and motivated throughout the year. By infusing intentionality into your routine, you empower yourself to navigate challenges and stay aligned with your goals.
This 90-day process is something you’ll repeat every quarter. With Brand New Plan, you’ll have both a business audit and a life audit framework to follow.
Conclusion: A Personalized Blueprint for Success
By starting with your authentic self, aligning your goals, and breaking down your plan into manageable chunks, you set the stage for a year of growth and fulfillment.
Remember, this process is not a one-time event but a continuous cycle of reflection, adaptation, and achievement all year long.
By prioritizing this check-in you’ll be able to adapt and pivot as needed before something gets out of hand, and you’ll also always know that you’re doing things as a business owner that are truly authentic to you
Brand New Plan can help you plan your most authentic year as a business owner while making sure you’re staying completely aligned with your overall vision. Get all the details here.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube Podcasts to hear the full episode and all the tips.
FREE GIFTS FOR YOU
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FREE GIFTS FOR YOU --
DISCOVER YOUR BRAND STORY IN UNDER 5 MINUTES
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Hey there, I’m Michelle Knight!
I’m an online branding and marketing consultant for female entrepreneurs.
I believe in the power of storytelling and using that superpower to brand and market yourself online...oh and to set yourself free.
I'm obsessed with living a life of freedom, so much so, that my family and I travel the world (sometimes in an RV) while running my business.
This blog serves as a home base for all things branding, marketing, content creation, productivity, and more.