
Now that we’re a few weeks into the year, it’s time to get serious about our goals for the year. Let’s be honest—New Year’s resolutions are famous for being broken before February even begins. But that’s okay because now’s the perfect time to leave the resolutions behind and focus on something better: a real, achievable plan for your business success in 2025.
Here are 8 steps to help you to reflect, plan, and take timely action toward your big dreams.
1. Reflect on 2024: What Worked, What Didn’t, and What You Want More Of
Before you start chasing your 2025 goals, take a moment to look back on last year. What were your highlights? Where did you struggle? Reflection is a powerful tool—it helps you learn from the past and set the stage for a stronger future.
Ask yourself:
What were my biggest wins last year?
What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them?
What do I want to stop, start, and keep doing this year?
💡 Pro Tip: Use this time to celebrate your progress, no matter how small. And if reflecting feels overwhelming, consider asking a friend or your virtual assistant to help you organise your thoughts or analyse your data.
2. Define Your Vision: Dream Big, but Make It Real
Picture this: It’s December 31, 2025. Your business is thriving. You’ve hit your income goals, your clients are raving about your services, and you’ve achieved a balance that lets you enjoy life.
What does that vision look like? More importantly, how does it feel?
Write it down. Visualise it. Make it your North Star.
For example:
Increase your income by 30%.
Launch a new service offering.
Work fewer hours while still growing your client base.
3. Set SMART Goals: Clarity is Key
Big dreams need a clear plan, and SMART goals provide just that. Make sure your goals are:
Specific: What exactly do you want?
Measurable: How will you track your progress?
Achievable: Be bold but realistic.
Relevant: Do they align with your long-term vision?
Time-bound: Set a deadline for accountability.
Example: "I will onboard three new clients by March 31, 2025, through targeted marketing efforts on The Virtual Cooee Hub."
4. Build a Plan: Break it Down into Steps
A goal without a plan is just a wish. Take your big goals and break them into actionable steps.
For example:
Goal: Launch a new service.
Steps:
Research what clients need most.
Create a pricing structure.
Promote the service through social media and The Virtual Cooee Hub.
💡 Pro Tip: If planning feels overwhelming, a VA can be your right-hand support, helping you create schedules, track tasks, and keep you focused.
5. Plan for Setbacks: Anticipate and Overcome Obstacles
Here’s the truth: setbacks will happen. Fear, procrastination, and unexpected roadblocks are all part of the journey. But the key to success is planning for these moments.
Ask yourself:
What fears or doubts might hold me back?
What practical obstacles could arise (e.g., time constraints, tech issues)?
What’s my backup plan for when I feel stuck?
💡 Pro Tip: Write down three strategies for overcoming common setbacks. For example, schedule regular check-ins with an accountability partner, like a fellow VA or business owner, to stay on track.
6. Stay Flexible: Adjust and Thrive
Life happens. The unexpected will show up, and your goals might need a little tweak along the way. And that’s okay! Stay open to change and revisit your goals regularly to ensure they still align with your vision. Flexibility isn’t failure—it’s resilience in action. What matters is your ability to adapt and keep moving forward.
Schedule regular check-ins with yourself (or your team!) to review what’s working and adjust where needed.
7. Build a Support Network: You’re Not Alone
No one said you have to do it all yourself. (In fact, please don’t!) Success is so much sweeter when shared. Surround yourself with people who understand your journey—whether that’s a mentor, a peer group, or the supportive community at The Virtual Cooee.
The Virtual Cooee Hub is the perfect place to connect with like-minded women who understand the unique challenges of rural and regional life. And if you’re a business owner, finding a VA who matches your vibe can transform the way you work.
8. Keep Your Why Front and Centre
When things get tough (and they will), reconnect with your “why.” Why did you start this business? What drives you? What impact do you want to make?
Write it down. Frame it. Tattoo it on your heart (or your notebook). Let it guide your actions every single day and be the driving force behind everything you do in 2025.
Make 2025 Your Year of Growth and Success
2025 is brimming with potential, and you hold the power to shape it into your best year yet. Take the time to reflect, plan, and act with intention. And remember, you don’t have to do it alone—The Virtual Cooee is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember—together!
💡 Ready to take the first step? Whether you're a VA, service provider or a Solopreneur business owner, join us for a free Hub Tour every Wednesday, learn how to navigate The Virtual Cooee and discover how we can support your business and help you take steps to achieve your 2025 business goals.
by Libby Roesner*
Dr Libby Roesner is the co-founder of The Virtual Cooee, an innovative platform designed to empower rural and regional women by connecting them with diverse business opportunities. Originally from Sydney, Libby's career path led her to Condobolin, a small town in the heart of rural NSW, where she embraced roles as diverse as an Agronomist, Soil Scientist, Landcare Coordinator, TAFE Teacher, and Farmer.
During a transformative sea change to Hervey Bay during the COVID pandemic, Libby discovered a way to use her diverse skills while travelling in a caravan as a Virtual Assistant, a role through which she supports rural businesses navigating modern challenges. Her journey, marked by courage, dedication, and a deep commitment to rural communities, fuels her vision for The Virtual Cooee. Libby is passionate about leveraging her rich background to foster opportunities that allow women to excel professionally, irrespective of their geographic constraints. Outside her professional life, Libby finds joy in her family and nature as well as, dancing, martial arts, gardening and drawing, reflecting her multifaceted life and commitment to her community.
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