Here is a short list of how I’m looking back on the last three months and doubling down my planning efforts for the next three:

1. Review my goals. In December, I attended a goal workshop unlike any I have seen before and it was magical. I walked away with nine goals that will require me to stretch throughout the year. Because I don’t work in an office where I can post my goals and see them in front of me every day, I scheduled time to pull them up for review and make sure I’m staying on track. I was surprised to discover I have in fact completed several of my work and personal goals for 2021 already. Recognizing my wins inspires me to keep going! I also want to look at the goals I haven’t reached yet. Did I not meet them because of my efforts? Did I forget about them? Or are they a work in progress? Maybe a goal or two no longer serves me and can be replaced. There is plenty to learn, even if I have flat out failed to work on one (book manuscript, stop giving me the side eye). This also gives me a chance to look ahead and decide which goals will get my full attention over the next three months. 
2. Plan out projects and my time. As a freelance editor/copy writer, much of my work comes in without much preplanning. Some projects I can count on and schedule but others, as it goes with a growing business, show up unannounced. However, I can look ahead to the projects I do for myself such as writing out 12 new blog topics, and scheduling time to build and send invoices. These each get a place on the calendar over the next three months. Similarly, I can look ahead at my marketing, vacations, travel, conferences, and continuing education opportunities and add in community meetings, volunteer opportunities, birthdays and parties, etc. Also, while reviewing my calendar, I can check and see what actually got done on the days I scheduled it or within the timeframe allotted and adjust as needed. 
3. Review my CV. You never know when you’re going to be asked to send in references or a resume for a new client or project. I like to have mine ready to go. Something I’m trying this year is to review my CV every three months and keep it up-to-date. This makes my response time quicker as well so when I do see an opportunity, I’m ready to apply instead of spending hours getting my resume updated. I can add in new clients, projects, or skills I’ve mastered and make sure I’ve got current contact information for my references. 

How about you? Anyone else making 2021 their year to get organized? What have I missed? I would love to add it in for my next quarterly review.