My quarterly review process (downloadeable template included!)
In the last couple years, I've moved from doing an annual business review to doing a quarterly review.
Reflecting on my business growth and goals quarterly allows me to check where I am, stay responsive, and pivot my business as needed. It's made the biggest difference in helping me shift the needle on challenges while fine-tuning the work/life balance that works for me.
The real payoff is in doing this work for yourself so for today I'll do a short/sweet rundown on what I keep track of and how I let it guide my decisions. You can grab the template I use if you want to schedule time later this month to track how your summer went and plan for a strong end of year.
Time and Money
Time and money are the two main things I track. I need to know how much I earn per client hour, or how much that $0.50/word or flat $500 rate breaks down to accounting for research, interviews, and writing time. Tracking this quarterly lets me see quickly which clients aren't financially worth it for me. Sometimes, I can become more efficient and increase this rate over time. In other cases, it's better to end a relationship that doesn't meet my financial needs.
First I crunch the numbers. Then I free write about how I feel about the way I've spent my time, what I want to do differently, and big-picture takeaways.
Income Goals
Plotting out an income goal and how much work I have lined up lets me see how close (or not) I am to meeting my financial needs. Even if there is a big gap, it's better to know so you can prepare.
Business Expenses
Since I'm self-employed, I can deduct business expenses. Tracking these throughout the year lets me see whether I'm overspending or if I can invest in a big-ticket expense like a professional conference.
Milestones and Accomplishments
I pause to reflect on what milestones, achievements, and accomplishments came up over the last quarter. Pause to appreciate what is working! I'll also note any setbacks or incomplete projects and desired changes to make to be more in alignment.
Goals
Looking ahead, I plot out personal and professional goals for the upcoming quarter. What do I want to do and how long do I think it will take?
Guiding Vision
I'll end with a freewrite to inspire me going forward. This is written as if it’s the end of the quarter and I am looking back at what I accomplished, challenges I overcame, and how I leveled up.
My Latest Piece
My queer Young Adult story drops in Oyster River Pages later this week, and I'll be sharing the link on Twitter when it drops.
Get your q’s answered:
Once a month, I answer your questions about the writing life and making it work for you. Want yours answered? Write back or contact me here.