How to Plan When Things Are Uncertain

How to Plan For Your Business When Things Are Uncertain

I just brushed the dust off of my 2020 planner. It was filled with goals and accomplishments for the first three months, and then once the pandemic hit, all bets were off. Every page afterward was blank, void of any ambitions or tasks.

It's hard to plan when we've all faced so much uncertainty in 2020; however, we can still prepare ourselves for success by setting achievable milestones for 2021.

Below I list 5 ways you can make the most out of uncertain times:

1. Focus on the present:

   • Instead of looking weeks ahead, try focusing on your current weekly tasks. Determine three tasks that MUST get done during that specific week, and write out how you will achieve each one. When we accomplish goals, we feel instant gratification, and by completing these tasks over-time, you’ll reach more goals than you initially realized.

2. Make Good Use of Your Time:

   • If you aren't able to do your job because of underlying factors (like a business you outsource to is shut down or an event you had planned was canceled), focus on what you can work on and what is in your control. Take advantage of quiet times to learn, to get creative, and to be innovative. Sometimes our best work comes from uncertainty.

3. Be Flexible:

   • In other words, have a backup plan. If your initial project falls through, have a list of other interested clients you can follow-up with, or if an event gets canceled, have a strategy in place to make up with loss sales - like offering your work online.

4. Be Open-Minded:

   • Maximize your time by learning a new skill or updating your website and resume. Reach out to people you admire and pick their brains, or take the time to finally learn how to take good photos. There are so many things you can be doing to enhance your skillset that you may never get an opportunity to do so again.

5. Celebrate:

   • Meeting goals during trying times is something to be celebrated. Strive to make time for yourself each month, whether it's getting a massage, a manicure, or renting a sappy movie.

Join me on Social

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My Favorite Planners:

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Want to know what I’m up to on the every day? Follow along on Instagram at @cocozentner_art or on my Pinterest page. I love to post what inspires me, behind the scenes of my painting process, and my pup, Maudie! Have any questions? Simply send me an email, and I’ll do my best to get back to you within 24 hours!

I hope this New Year brings you and yours so much joy! Sending love and healthy hugs!

Until next time,

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Winter Wants

What we are eating: 

• We have been cooking away out of this cookbook lately, & I love every. single. dish (pro-tip: If you don't have this pan, this has also become a favorite staple in our kitchen).

What we are watching: 

• I binged Bridgerton way too quickly and am now on to the second season of this home makeover show. Have you watched either? Would love to know your thoughts!

What we are listening to:

• If you follow me on Instagram, you know that I love to discuss my favorite audiobooks & current reads. I've listened to almost every episode of Paloma Contreras' podcast, so if you love design & decor, add this to your listens.

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