How to write a business plan

Being a business owner can sometimes feel like you’re running non-stop on a treadmill, with an endless list of tasks and responsibilities. But, imagine if you could step off this treadmill and start steering your business with purpose and direction. The secret ingredient? Smart planning!

For Sydney business owners, effective business planning is the foundation of building a business that works without you. Learn more about our business coaching programs. Our Sydney business coaching programs use proven 90-day planning cycles to help you stay focused and achieve breakthrough results.

Let me share some straightforward steps based on what has worked for me and the business owners I’ve coached. This way, you can create a plan that helps your business grow and lets you enjoy the ride.

How to Write a Business Plan That Actually Works

– Why Planning Matters: It helps you see the big picture, so you’re not just caught up in everyday tasks. It’s like having a map for a road trip.

The 90-Day Planning Cycle

– Breaking It Down: Instead of thinking years ahead, we focus on the next three months. It’s easier and keeps you focused.

– Choosing Three Big Moves: Think of three main things you want to achieve in these 90 days. Keeping it to three helps you stay focused without getting overwhelmed.

Setting SMART Goals

– What Are SMART Goals?:

– Specific: Your goal should be clear. Instead of “make more money,” think “increase sales by 10%.”

– Measurable: You should be able to track your progress. Knowing exactly how close you are to your goal keeps you motivated.

– Achievable: Make sure your goal is something you can realistically accomplish.

– Relevant: Your goals should matter to your business and help it grow.

– Time-bound: Have a deadline. This makes sure you work on it now, not someday.

The most important part

Visualising Success

Imagine You’ve Achieved Your Goals: Mentally place yourself in the future. Picture your business after reaching these goals.

Then Ask yourself: What would I have sorted out to get here?

What does it look like? How did you get there? This helps you figure out the steps you need to take.

List out everything that comes to mind and build your roadmap

Making a Roadmap: These smaller tasks become your guide for the next 90 days. Each one brings you closer to your big goals.

The Benefits of This Approach

I used to build plans from the present and map out the steps to get to where I wanted to go. I found somewhere about a third of the way through that I would be way off track.

By mentally going to the finish line and working backwards my plans are way more robust.

Tips for Success

– Review Regularly: Look at your plan often to stay on track. Adjust if you need to.

– Celebrate Wins: When you complete a task or reach a goal, celebrate! It keeps you motivated.

– Keep It Simple: Don’t over complicate your plan. The simpler it is, the easier it is to follow.

Conclusion

Planning might sound a bit boring, but it’s actually a super powerful tool to help your business grow. By setting clear goals, breaking them down into steps, and keeping track of your progress, you can achieve amazing things. Plus, you’ll feel more in control and less stressed. So, let’s get planning and make your business dreams come true!

Take Planning to the Next Level with BGB

Our 90-day planning cycle is a cornerstone of BGB’s business coaching system, and it’s helped hundreds of business owners stay focused, achieve breakthrough results, and maintain momentum quarter after quarter.

If you’re ready to stop feeling overwhelmed and start making real progress, our business coaching programs provide the planning frameworks, accountability, and support you need. Learn about our approach to strategic business planning, or book a free coaching call to discover how Sydney business coaching can help you achieve your business dreams.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Planning

How do I write a business plan that actually works?

Use a 90-day planning cycle instead of annual plans. Start by visualising your success—imagine you’ve achieved your goals, then work backwards to identify the steps needed. Set 3 big moves for the next 90 days, make them SMART goals, and create a roadmap of smaller tasks. This approach is more robust than planning forward.

What are SMART goals in business planning?

SMART goals are: Specific (clear and detailed), Measurable (you can track progress), Achievable (realistic), Result-oriented (focused on outcomes), and Time-scaled (with deadlines). Instead of “make more money,” think “increase sales by 10% in the next 90 days.”

How often should I review my business plan?

Review your 90-day plan weekly to stay on track and adjust as needed. Celebrate wins to maintain motivation. The key is regular review and adjustment, not rigid adherence to a plan that’s no longer relevant. BGB’s business coaching programs include regular planning reviews.

What’s the difference between a business plan and business planning?

A business plan is a static document, while business planning is an ongoing process. Effective business planning involves regular review, adjustment, and forward-looking strategy. The 90-day cycle keeps planning dynamic and responsive to changing circumstances.

Do I need a business coach to create a business plan?

While you can create a plan yourself, a business coach provides proven frameworks, accountability, and support that dramatically improves results. BGB’s planning system has helped 300+ businesses achieve their goals faster with better outcomes than going it alone.