As we finish out 2024, it’s the perfect time to look ahead and ensure we’re set up for a successful 2025. A fresh year brings fresh opportunities to align our individual efforts with the bigger picture—and now’s the time to make sure we’re all on the same page.

In a recent video, Scaling Up coach Bill Gallagher shared a great reminder: Start with the end in mind. Here’s how to apply this thinking as you plan your goals for the year:

Start Big, Work Back:

1. Define the End Goal.
   Begin with your company’s big-picture targets: a BHAG, 3–5 year goals, or your Annual Initiatives.

2. Break it Down.
   Think about what must happen this quarter to hit those annual goals. Each department and individual should focus on the work that directly supports these priorities.

3. Keep it Focused.
   Each person should own no more than three Quarterly Priorities. These should be the "make-or-break" goals—things that, if left unfinished, could derail the company's progress.

4. Add Baseline Responsibilities Last.
   Once priorities are set, layer in any regular job responsibilities or production tasks.

Why This Works

This framework doesn’t just create alignment; it ensures everyone is focused on what matters most. When every team member’s priorities connect back to the company’s objectives, it drives accountability and momentum toward big goals.

Your To-Do for Q1:

As you finalize your Quarterly Priorities, ask yourself:

• What are the three most important things I need to accomplish this quarter?
• How do these goals connect to our Annual Initiatives?

Remember, you can execute all this in Align, where you can set, share, and monitor goals to keep everyone accountable. Plus, add them into your huddles throughout the quarter to keep them alive!

If you need a quick refresher on how to set up and align priorities in the platform, check out our Align Academy resources here.

Here’s to a productive start to the year! Let’s set the stage for an incredible 2025.

Warm wishes for a Happy New Year,