Positioning My Business for A Successful Holiday Season
Making plans for my business ahead of the busy holiday season
The holiday season is right around the corner, and while it’s often a time of celebration, it can also bring a lot of stress, especially when you're managing a business, a family, and your own well-being.
Over the years, I’ve learned that the key to surviving this time of year isn't just about productivity, but about finding balance.
And so this year, I'm being more intentional about how I manage my time, my mental health, and my business goals so I can fully enjoy the season.
Setting intentional content and financial goals for my business
As the year wraps up, I’ve set specific content goals for Clever Girl Finance. I want us to close out strong by producing content that truly resonates with our audience and contributes to the overall growth of the Clever Girl Finance brand. My focus isn’t just on quantity, but quality and relevance.
On the financial side, I’m continuing to make it a priority to save and invest at least 15% of all business income into the business brokerage account. This is part of my long-term strategy to ensure that this business continues to grow and evolve beyond just the immediate returns (or setbacks).
One thing that has me feeling more optimistic is the recent uptick we’ve seen with the Google algorithm’s impact on our SEO. After what’s felt like a rollercoaster of changes, it’s relieving to see some positive results, and that has given me more optimism specifically around SEO moving into the new year.
That said, we’ll continue to pursue our multiple income streams, because as we all know, in business, things can change at any time and we need to stay ready, but my hope is that this uptick continues.
Leveraging automation and tools for a seamless workflow
One thing that’s been a game changer for us is the use of automation and planning tools. As the holiday season gets busier and with 2 new books to promote, I know we won’t have time to handle every little task manually.
Team CGF is small (but mighty!) and so to support our efforts, we’ll be setting up advance automation and scheduling for emails, social media posts, newsletters, and even some content publication to keep things running smoothly.
Additionally, I’m outsourcing what’s necessary while being mindful of my business budget. Being able to coverage our expenses and put aside a miniumum is 15% is a non-negotiable for me.
There’s a lot of power (and peace) in knowing that you don’t have to scramble to meet deadlines or juggle last-minute to-dos. I can focus on being present in the moment because I’ve already mapped out what needs to be done. This will also free up time to pursue any last minute opportunities that pop up.
Balancing my mental health and the holiday hustle
If you’ve read some of my previous Substack posts, you know I’ve been open about talking about my mental health. This year, I’m taking a proactive approach to dealing with seasonal depression (Darker days and little sunlight are a challenge for me).
I'm making an effort to work out consistently, which really helps with my mood and energy levels. Journaling has also become a non-negotiable part of my routine. It gives me a space to process the overwhelming thoughts that sometimes come with both entrepreneurship, parenting, and just life.
To make sure I’m fully present with my husband and kids, we’ve started doing fun activities together every weekend—whether it’s a movie night, going out to lunch or dinner, or something simple like baking or making dinner together.
I’ve also made it a point to schedule a monthly massage. It’s one of those things I used to push to the side, but I’ve realized how essential it is for me to recharge (and not be on that damn phone!).
I want my kids to feel my presence, not just physically but emotionally. So, when I’m with them, I make sure my mind is off work and fully engaged with family life. This takes effort, but it’s a conscious shift that makes all the difference.
Remaining positive for the future
I know this year hasn’t been easy for many entrepreneurs, myself included, but I’m staying optimistic. This holiday season, I’m focusing on what I can control—my well-being, my family, and my business goals—and letting go of what I can’t.
I’m excited for what’s ahead and remain hopeful that all the seeds I’m planting now, both personally and professionally, will lead to continued growth in the future.
The holiday season can be a time of chaos, but it’s also an opportunity to reset, refocus, and recharge. By being intentional with my time and goals, I’m setting myself up to end this year strong—and to start the next one with even more purpose.
What are you focusing on in business this holiday season?