I've always been a planner, perhaps too much so.

The rigidity of my plans used to make it challenging for me to adapt and change course when needed. As a recovering perfectionist, the idea of deviating from my perfectly crafted plans felt like a failure.

However, over the years I’ve discovered a more adaptable approach to planning which includes checking in with myself multiple times over the year.

In this episode, I'll share how I transitioned from rigid planning to a more flexible approach, introducing the concept of planning fluidity and my four-step strategy for successful pivoting.

Inside today’s episode of the Brandmerry Podcast, we’ll dive into:

How pivoting is a strategic practice for seasoned entrepreneurs building an aligned business.
The 4-step process for checking in and pivoting every 90 days as a business owner.
The exact questions to ask yourself to better understand what’s required of you as a business owner in the next quarter so you end the year strong.

For the full content, and all the insider tips, listen to Episode 102 now.

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The Art of Pivoting: A Strategic Approach

My journey into a more flexible approach to planning began with the realization that crafting a rigid 12-month plan didn't necessarily set me up for success.

Last week, I shared this as one of the three mistakes entrepreneurs make when planning. I received numerous responses after expressing this viewpoint, which is why we’re diving into this topic today.

While I believe in having a vision for the year ahead, the emphasis on having the full 12 months completely mapped out isn’t necessary.

Instead, I encourage entrepreneurs to focus on 90 days at a time and embrace planning fluidity—a concept I'm currently teaching in my program, Brand New Plan.

This approach focuses on creating a strategy that allows for reassessment and adjustment without sacrificing long-term goals.

Pivoting is more than a spontaneous reaction; it's a strategy.

And, that strategy consists of a four-step process for successful pivoting, a method I've honed to navigate changes in my business while maintaining purpose and direction throughout the year.

The 4R Strategy: Adjusting Plans with Purpose

For a full dive into this strategy below, and the exact questions to ask yourself throughout the process, be sure to join Brand New Plan.

REVIEW: REFLECTING ON THE PAST

The goal is to perform this review every 90 days at the least, but performing it anytime something feels off can pay off in the long run.

This step involves analyzing key areas such as business revenue, sales, and overall insights into how things are going.

This step involves answering specific questions about the last few months:

How did the last 90 days go for my business, considering revenue and sales?
What specific changes or adjustments do I feel are necessary?
How am I progressing toward my end-of-year goal, and does it still align with my vision?

REFLECT: EMBRACING THE EMOTIONAL ASPECT

The next part of the process is balancing analytical review with emotional reflection, this step evaluates what's working and why, and what isn't and why not.

Recognizing how you’re feeling toward your business, and taking a deeper dive into the analytical information encourages a deeper understanding of your business as the creator and can play a role in consistency - which we all know is key to reaching our goals.

This step involves considering questions like:

What aspects of my business are working, and why do I believe they're successful?
What isn't working, and what emotional factors might be contributing to that?
How do I feel overall about my business and the priorities set for the quarter?

REGROUP: MAKING SENSE OF THE DATA

At this stage, you want to pull back and revisit your plans with the information you now have.

By acknowledging shifts and readjusting priorities for the upcoming 90 days, this phase guarantees a strategic approach to pivoting and will determine the actions you’ll take in the next quarter.

Consider the following questions when at this stage:

What does the review information tell me about my next 90 days?
How does my current trajectory align with my end-of-year goal?
Are there changes in my personal or business life that need consideration in the regrouping process?

REFRESH OR REVISE: STRATEGICALLY ADJUSTING PLANS

Now it’s time to strategically determine what’s needed. Are you ready for a little plan refresh or a complete revision?

This step is so powerful and breathes new life into strategies for continued success throughout the entire year. Aligning adjustments with the overarching end-of-year goal provides a strategic approach to adapting plans. This is the sweet spot to planning and when done every 90 days at the least can lead to a beautifully aligned brand and business.

This step involves asking questions like:

What adjustments can breathe new life into my strategy?
Are there specific elements that need to be released or revised?
Does my end-of-year goal still resonate with me, or does it require a significant revision?

Consistent Alignment Every 90 Days: Crafting an Aligned Business

Repeating the 4R strategy every 90 days, at minimum, ensures ongoing alignment with business goals.

Remember, pivoting isn't a sign of failure; it's a conscious decision to stay in alignment.
By consistently checking in, reflecting, and adjusting, you create a business that feels inspired and true to your vision.

As I invite you to adopt this four-part strategy, remember that you can have a feel-good business.

By focusing on planning fluidity, emotional reflection, and strategic adjustments, you empower yourself to build a business that aligns with your values and brings you joy.

Join me in this approach as you plan your next year in business, prioritizing flexibility, and consistent alignment. All the details about Brand New Plan are available here.

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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