A funny pattern shows up when I talk with studio owners about planning:
It’s not that they’re doing it wrong…
It’s that most have never been shown what real annual planning actually looks like.
So… They’re not even doing it at all!!!
They’ll say things like:
“I’ve never done this before.”
“I don’t know what goes into an annual plan.”
“I don’t know what’s realistic.”
“I get overwhelmed by the scope.”
“I make goals, but not a real plan.”
“I don’t know how to break things down.”
No one ever handed them a clean structure, a simple framework, or a way to see their studio as a system instead of a list of tasks.
So let me give you a clearer picture of what annual planning actually is:
1. A way to see your whole business at once.
Marketing, enrollment, finances, staffing, operations.
Annual planning shows how all the pieces connect so you stop reacting and start anticipating.
2. A structure that turns ideas into a sequence.
Instead of “goals,” you build a roadmap—what happens first, second, third, and why.
3. A pattern-recognition tool.
When you review your year through a specific lens, the real drivers of your growth (and your problems) finally become obvious.
4. A filter for what to stop doing.
A real plan eliminates distractions, busywork, and nice-to-have projects that don’t move the business.
5. A framework that reveals growth opportunities.
New programs, retention strategies, hiring plans, revenue bridges…
These become visible only when you lay out the year in a structured way.
Most studio owners have never seen this version of planning.
They’re working hard, trying to “figure it out,” but without the map, everything feels heavier than it needs to be.
This is why I’m hosting a free Annual Planning Workshop.
During that session, I’m going to walk you through the model I use with clients to map out their year:
the categories to review
the questions that uncover your real priorities
how to set goals that are grounded and realistic
how to organize your year so it flows
how to identify hidden opportunities for growth
You’ll begin creating your plan alongside me.
I’m going to give you the process.
Click here to reserve your free spot
(A replay will be available—but only if you register.)
See you there,
Daniel
