The 12 Week Year Plan: How To Set Up Your Business For Success

It’s time to take growing your business seriously.

Most business owners attempt to set yearly goals through a loose planning process or via New Year’s resolutions. Time and time again, it’s proven that this method does not work in business. However, success is possible if a strategic planning method is implemented.

I frequently see business owners over-plan the next 12 months. Sticking to a year-long plan can be challenging when things change so often. When we try to plan beyond 90 days (12 weeks), we do more work than we need to. Why? Because business is unpredictable, and there are many times that you’ll find yourself needing to pivot and change the plan.

The 12 Week Year Plan implements the structure your business needs, with the flexibility to change when needed.

What is the 12 Week Year Method?

The 12-Week Year Method is based on the book of the same name written by Brian Moran and Michael Lennington. According to research, most business goals are completed in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. The looming hard deadline of the end of the year creates a sense of urgency for business owners.

The 12 Week Year Method is a goal-setting and achievement system based on the idea that a year can be condensed into 12 weeks. With this method, a business can accomplish more in a shorter period of time by setting short-term goals and focusing on them over 12 weeks. In turn, you will accomplish more in 12 weeks than you would by setting annual goals.

After reading this book, I implemented the 12-week method. Since then, I’ve noticed incredible results. My business is more organized, focused, and streamlined overall.

Here are 5 steps to create a 12-Week Year Plan:

1. Define your vision and goals

Start by identifying your long-term vision and the goals to help you achieve it. These goals should be SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. These parameters ensure your goals are specific yet possible within your time frame.

2. Break down your goals into smaller milestones

Next, break down your goals into smaller milestones. Divide your long-term goals into smaller, achievable milestones that can be completed in 12 weeks. This will help you stay focused on the tasks at hand without getting overwhelmed.

3. Create an action plan

Once you have identified your milestones, create an action plan outlining the steps you need to take to achieve them. Be sure to assign deadlines to each step and prioritize your tasks.

4. Monitor progress

Regularly track your progress toward your milestones. Be open to adjusting your action plan. 12 weeks go by quickly, so it’s essential to be aware of your deadlines and monitor closely every week.

5. Review and adjust

At the end of each 12 weeks, review your progress and adjust your action plan for the next 12 weeks. This will help you stay on track and make the necessary changes to achieve your goals.

Remember, staying focused and committed to your goals is the key to success with the 12-week Year Plan. You can make significant progress quickly by breaking down your goals into achievable milestones and creating a detailed action plan.

Want to learn more about the 12-week Year Plan? I talk about it more in-depth in my email list. Join my email list here.