As summer winds down and we head into fall, this is the perfect moment to pause and take stock of your business. For many, the past few months have been a whirlwind. I live in summer resort area in Southern New Jersey so the seasonal industry that thrives in summer or simply caught up in the busyness that comes with longer days and heavier demand.
Now is the time to step back, review, and plan. Doing this now before November and December means you can head into year-end with clarity instead of scrambling to make last-minute decisions.
Here are a few key questions to guide your review:
How does your cash flow look right now?
Take a close look at what’s coming in and what’s going out. Is there enough to comfortably cover the next few months? Are there areas where expenses can be tightened up before year-end?
What do you need to carry you through fall and year-end?
Think about what’s ahead: payroll, vendor payments, taxes, holiday bonuses, or other seasonal expenses. Laying these out now helps you avoid surprises.
What do you need for Q1 2026?
The new year often brings slower months for many industries. Planning now ensures you have a cushion to start strong without stress.
For seasonal businesses, what will sustain you until your next busy season?
If your revenue slows in the off-season, map out exactly what funds are needed to bridge the gap. This clarity helps you decide how much to set aside from this season’s earnings.
What does this mean for year-end bonuses or distributions?
When you know your numbers, you can make confident decisions about whether there’s room for year-end rewards, for yourself, your team, or your shareholders, without jeopardizing cash flow.
Why this matters:
By reviewing your reports and forecasting now, you set yourself up to make informed choices instead of reactive ones. The goal isn’t just to survive the next few months but to thrive, closing out 2025 strong while positioning your business for success in 2026
Tip: Block an hour this week to pull your P&L, cash flow statement, and year-to-date reports. Review them with these questions in mind, and jot down what actions you need to take.
Your fall reset is your chance to shift from reacting to proactively leading your business into the new year. Ready to see where you stand and what’s possible? Book a consultation call and let’s put a plan in place together.
