Strategic Planning Tips for 2025: How to Set SMART Goals and Achieve Success

It’s still January, and that means it’s prime time for strategic planning! If you didn’t get a chance to tackle it at the end of last year, now is the perfect opportunity to dive in and set yourself up for success in 2025. Here are some practical tips to help you plan effectively and move forward with confidence.

Begin with the End in Mind

Start by visualizing December 2025. What accomplishments will you be celebrating as you raise your glass? This future-focused mindset helps you plan backward and identify the steps needed to achieve your goals.

Conduct a SWOT Analysis

Every successful strategic planning session begins with a SWOT analysis—a tool I use annually for Slater Success. Here’s how you can apply it:

Strengths: What is your company great at? Lean into these areas to maximize opportunities.

Weaknesses: Identify gaps or areas for improvement. Could this involve team adjustments, training, or process optimization?

Opportunities: Where can you grow or expand? New markets, products, or collaborations might be waiting.

Threats: Assess your competition and potential challenges. Be prepared to mitigate risks.

Pro tip: Conduct a SWOT analysis not only for your business as a whole but also for individual teams or departments.

Set SMART Goals

Once you’ve analyzed your business, focus on setting SMART goals—a tried-and-true framework that works every time:

Specific: Clearly define your goal.

Measurable: Set metrics to track progress.

Achievable: Ensure it’s realistic and aligns with your resources and Actionable: Create a plan to execute.

Relevant: Aligned with the mission of your company.

Time-bound: Set a deadline for completion.

As Napoleon Hill famously said, “A dream is a goal with a deadline.”

Break it Down into 90-Day Plans

Next, develop 90-day action plans to keep your business on track. Focus on 3 key action items that will drive progress. These might touch different areas of your business, but collectively, they should align with your overarching strategic goals.

Take Action and Stay Connected

Strategic planning isn’t just about setting goals—it’s about following through. Use this framework to guide your efforts, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek support along the way.

If you need help or want to discuss your planning process, I’d love to connect. Let’s make 2025 a year to celebrate!

What are you most excited to accomplish this year? Share your thoughts or goals in the comments below!