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Certain times of the year naturally lead to reflection, and right now is one of those moments. With summer behind us in the lawn care and landscaping business (as well as three quarters of the year complete), it’s the perfect opportunity to refocus and recommit to goals.

Here are ten strategic questions to consider before years end:

1. Are Your Plans on Track?

You started the year with big goals. Now that we’re two-thirds of the way through, it’s important to assess what’s working well and where things have fallen short. Slow down and write out your thoughts. Reflect on the reasons behind your successes and failures. A written self-assessment helps clarify your next steps and creates a sense of urgency.

2. Financial Health Check

There’s always room to improve your financial strategy.

• What sales efforts need a boost?

• Do you need to make any new investments?

• Are there any unnecessary expenses you can cut?

Now is a great time to analyze your financials and make adjustments.

3. Update Your 2025 Pricing

Have you reviewed your pricing for the upcoming year? Even small increases can make a significant impact. For example, a 3% increase on a $100k project results in an extra $3k directly to your bottom line. Keeping up with cost changes now will help you avoid lost revenue later.

Build a Better Budget: The Green Executive offers a “Build a Better Budget with LMN Refresher” in the 4th and 1st quarter of every year. Contact Sahra to find out how you can get on the waitlist to attend the next workshop.

4. Focus on Leadership

“Leadership impacts 70% of your company’s outcome each year.” It’s easy to blame external factors like market conditions or software, but leadership is the driving force behind everything. Take an honest look at how you can grow as a leader and support your team more effectively. Courageous self-assessment leads to stronger results.

5. Encourage and Hold Yourself Accountable

Are you lacking encouragement or accountability? If so, it might be time to join a mastermind group or hire a business coach. Both options can provide the support and direction needed to keep you on track.

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6. Address Difficult Decisions

Is there a tough conversation you’ve been avoiding? Whether it involves an employee, business partner, or trade partner, laying out the difficult conversations you need to have can lead to growth and success. Facing these challenges head-on is often the key to moving forward.

7. Improve Personal Organization

What can you do this month to feel more in control of your business? It might be as simple as improving your morning routine, delegating tasks, or using an app to streamline your workflow. A small change can make a big difference in your overall productivity.

8. Read a Book

Is there a book you’ve been meaning to read, or one that has inspired you in the past? Commit to reading just 10 pages each morning, and before you know it, you’ll have finished. Reading expands your mind and sparks fresh ideas.

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9. Plan Time Off

Have you planned your vacations or long weekends for the next few months? It’s important to carve out time for relaxation and fun. Plan these first, and the rest will fall into place.

10. Talk to a Coach

Is now the time to seek professional guidance? If you’re facing challenges or have ambitious goals for your business, consider reaching out to a coach. They can provide insights and help you develop a roadmap to success.

Take these questions and reflect on your year so far, then take what you know and apply it to the last few months of the year. The insights you gain now can lead to stronger results and a more focused finish to the year.

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Need a strategic partner to push you over the hump? The Green Executive offers 1:1 consulting to lawn care and landscape professionals to help them drill down the specific aspects and challenges facing their businesses. Book a call today and let’s see how we can support you!