As someone who’s been in marketing for over 20 years and had my own business for 14 years, this is what I’m doing before 2026 to set my business up for success without the end of year stress.
For me, the end of they ear isn’t just about just setting goals. It’s about building the foundation for a smoother, more intentional year ahead.
If I’ve learned one thing after 14 years in business, it’s that we’re all just making it up as we go. The pressure to start January guns blazing is REAL, but it doesn’t mean we have to give in. There are no rules. You can do whatever you want!
Keep scrolling to see what I’m doing NOW, to take the pressure off myself later and set myself and my business up for success, no matter what the end of the year or 2026 brings.
1. Batching b-roll
Not just stockpiling footage, but filming B-roll that aligns with my 2026 offers, brand direction, and calendar. Think lifestyle clips that are flexible for different uses. Include a variety of clips. Some with you, some that don’t include you. Tip: Create 3 “content themes” and film B-roll for each (behind the scenes, your daily life, CEO moments).
2. Taking advantage of Black Friday deals for things I already buy.
If I already use a tool (or am planning to next year), I’m snagging those annual discounts. If I’m already going to pay for it, why not lock in the best price. For example, next year I’m using Voxer for the Down To Business Bundle, so I snagged it for the year for $50.
Watch for discounts on gear, technology, and anything you pay for monthly that you can get a good discount on by switching to the annual plan.
3. Planning for 2026
I wrote a whole email on this (let me know if you want me to send it to you), but now is when I have the most energy and excitement in my business, so I harness it and plan now so I’m not stressing at the end of the year when I want to be hibernating and already have the added chaos of the holidays.
4. Checking and updating all the things
Before the year ends is a great time to check your website and other marketing channels you aren’t in on a daily basis. Can you refresh the messaging or photos? Do you need to update links or offers? Is your pricing changing? Make sure you are heading into 2026 with a strong, consistent foundation.
5. Scheduling time to recharge
Now is the time I need to block off days on my calendar for me. I want to make sure I have time off to spend with my family during the holidays, and I also like to schedule some time for myself before my son is out of school and I’m on “Christmas Magic Maker” duty. By blocking off those days, appointments for a massage or yoga class, etc., I can fill in my schedule with other commitments and fun with family and friends.
The end of the year and beginning of the next always comes with pressure. This is my attempt to take that pressure off of myself so I can enjoy the end of the year and start 2026 refreshed and ready to go.
What are you doing before 2026 for your business (or yourself)?
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