How to set realistic growth goals for the 2025–26 financial year
The end of the financial year is a great time to hit pause, take stock and ask yourself: Where do I actually want my business to go this year? Not in a vague “let’s grow” kind of way — but in a clear, focused, practical way that fits your energy, resources and goals.
Here’s how to make sure your plans for 2025–26 actually work (and don’t just end up forgotten in a notebook).
1. Start With What Actually Happened Last Year
Before jumping into new goals, take a look at your numbers:
What brought in the most revenue?
Where did you overspend?
What felt easy vs what drained you?
Did your marketing efforts actually convert?
You don’t need fancy software — just a solid look at your income, expenses, and where your time went. Real data > guesswork.
2. Decide What 'Growth' Means for You
For some, it’s more clients or higher turnover. For others, it’s:
Working fewer hours
Hiring a contractor to ease the load
Getting off the cash flow rollercoaster
Finally building a proper website
Make it personal. Growth doesn’t have to mean “go bigger” — it can mean “get better.”
3. Keep Goals Simple, Specific & Achievable
Forget the 10-point plans. Pick 2–3 goals max and make them clear.
Instead of:
“Grow the business”
Try:
“Increase monthly revenue by 15% by December by launching a new service package.”
If it’s not measurable or trackable, it’s very easy to lose momentum.
4. Break It Down Into Bite-Size Actions
Big goals are great — but they only happen if you break them into steps.
Example:
Goal: Build a stronger online presence
Actions:
Refresh your website by August
Post 2x a week on Instagram
Set up email automation for new enquiries
Once it’s broken down, it’s not so overwhelming.
5. Actually Check In With Yourself
Set a reminder to review your progress every quarter. Ask:
Is this goal still relevant?
What’s working?
What needs tweaking?
No shame if you pivot - staying flexible is part of running a small business.
One Last Thing:
Don’t compare your goals to anyone else’s. You don’t need to scale at lightning speed or have a six-figure launch. You just need goals that move you forward - whatever that looks like this year.
If you need advice or assistance, get in touch today, and follow us for more tips.
Disclaimer
This information is intended to be general in nature and is not personal financial advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on any information, you should consider the appropriateness of the information provided in relation to your own circumstances.
