The first thing I do with each of my coaching clients is help them get clarity on the “big picture” vision they have for their life and business. In this article, I share part of this powerful process to assist you in planning for success!

Here are 3 key questions to ask yourself as you create your own passion-based business plan.

1. What does success look like for me in my business?

Imagine what success would look like for you in your business if everything worked out the way you wanted. Ideally, what accomplishments, outcomes or impact do you want to see in your life as a result of your business?

For most entrepreneurs, success includes an inspiring combination of being able to use their unique, God-given talents to do what they love, make a difference, leave a legacy and provide for their family. For me, success in my business involves fulfilling my true purpose by using my gifts to make an impact on others and earn a great income, all while being able to travel the world!

2. What kind of work do I most want to be doing?

This is where you tap into your passion for the work you truly love to do. What part of your business really makes you come alive? You want to make sure you love what you’re doing, otherwise it becomes harder to attract clients and customers.

In my business, I want to be spending most of my time writing, teaching and coaching. For me, those are my primary “zones of genius” where I feel I can make the most impact for the most people.

3. How much money do I want to earn in my business per year?

Be honest: how much money do you want to earn from your business over the next 12 months? Notice that I said ‘want,’ not ‘need.’ Many business owners struggle because they only hustle to bring in the bare minimum revenue that they need to meet their monthly expenses, instead of making more than enough to live their ideal lifestyle. But it’s time for you to start thriving, not simply surviving.

Here’s how to do it: start by writing down your annual salary goal, being careful to make it big enough to motivate you to keep taking consistent action, but not too big where it feels impossible and overwhelming. Then, multiply that number by 3 to get the amount of revenue you would need to bring into the business to be able to pay yourself that salary. For instance, if you want to earn $100,000 in personal income from the business, aim to bring in about $300,000 in revenue for the year.

Once you know the answers to these questions, your next step is to create what I call a 12-month Money M.A.P. (monthly action plan) that will get you from where you are now to your revenue goal. Then you can start making intentional, strategic progress, one step at a time.

P.S. Want support in creating your own passion-based business plan and Money M.A.P.? In between my coaching and speaking schedule, I carve out time for a few complimentary Strategy Sessions each month where we can discuss your goals, the challenges you’re facing and the next steps you should take to build a life and business you love. If you would like to have a Strategy Session, click here to schedule a time.