Are you winding down for Christmas, or have you still got too much to do? The year-end can be a tricky period, especially if you’ve been hard at it for 11 months already. So what’s the right balance? How do you ensure you end the year with a flourish?
For me, I think it’s important to remain professionally focused and have a clear sense of purpose in that final push for the line. Here are 5 things I’d recommend to finish the year strong.
- You’ll never get everything done, so don’t try. Rather than attempt to tick everything off your “to-do list,” instead focus on ensuring that 80% of the big stuff is in a really good place. From a procurement perspective, whether you’re a manufacturer, merchant, or distributor, this would typically mean ensuring your top deals are locked and loaded. Are your pricing agreements tied down? Do your forecasts look robust for Q1, at least? Is ranging and stock in a great place? Give yourself every chance to end the year strongly and fly into 2024.
- Take a day to reflect on the big ideas you had for 2023 – did they get delivered? Were they successful? Are there things you can action now that gets them into a better place and one that can make a positive impact into next year?
- Make three phone calls, and don’t overthink the agenda. It could be reconnecting with a customer, a former boss, a mentor, or a business associate. Give them a call and see what happens.
- Write down your big goals for next year, not everything, I mean the really big things you want to achieve. Then, plan your first day back, your first week, and your first month – what are the top 2-3 things you’ll deliver in that time that align with your big goals?
- Finally, and most importantly, take a break and recharge. Spend time with friends and family and recharge those batteries. It’s so important for your physical and mental health that you look after yourself. You’ll come back stronger and raring to go again.
Remember, just because there aren’t many working days left in 2023, it doesn’t mean that’s an excuse to switch off and drift aimlessly into the New Year. Be disciplined, focused, and committed, and finish the year as you mean to start the new one – professionally, positively, and with purpose!
About Keith
Keith Wright is an entrepreneur on a mission to impact the building materials industry positively. Renowned for his strategic approach, he has saved millions of pounds throughout his 30+ year career as a procurement expert and has no intention of stopping anytime soon. Keith’s passion and focus on value creation have driven his success, continuously seeking growth opportunities for his clients. As a trusted business consultant, he has collaborated with multiple market-leading companies, developing tailor-made procurement solutions aligned with their unique needs and goals.
In 2021, Keith founded K Wright Consultancy with a mission to share his procurement knowledge and expertise with business owners, leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors who are serious about taking their businesses to the next level. Within 2.5 years, his consultancy firm has supported 26 organizations, creating value in the multiple millions.
With a forthcoming book on procurement set to be published in 2024, Keith is passionate about shedding light on this often-overlooked area of value. While many may prioritize sales, Keith emphasizes the significance of a robust procurement strategy to ensure your business has both happy customers and a happy team.
To connect more with Keith, visit www.kwrightconsultancy.co.uk, or you can follow him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/keith-wright-4aa823a8 or TikTok @theprocurementexpert
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