The holidays are here, and while everyone else is stringing lights and sipping eggnog, you’ve got a business to run. And not just any business—your business, your baby. Wrapping up the year is more than just a metaphor; it’s your chance to tie everything up neatly so you can step into 2025, ready to crush it.

Here’s a checklist to help you close out 2024 like the boss you are:

Reflect and Review

Before you dive into next year’s goals, take a beat to look back. What went well this year? What didn’t? Pull out your financials, customer feedback, and sales reports. Maybe you’re crushing your revenue goals, but your social media engagement flatlined. These insights are gold—treat them like it.

Organize Your Financials

The last thing you want is to scramble for receipts on April 14th. (March 14th if you file a 1065!!) Reconcile your books, review outstanding invoices, and check for last-minute deductible expenses (hello, new office chair?). If you’ve had a stellar year, now’s the time to consult your accountant about deferring income or making extra retirement contributions to manage your tax liability.

Show Some Love to Your Team

If you have employees, contractors, or even that one virtual assistant who’s saved your bacon more times than you can count, now’s the time to say thank you. Bonuses, gift cards, or even a heartfelt email can go a long way. Appreciation isn’t just nice; it’s smart business.

Audit Your Systems and Processes

The year-end is perfect for playing detective. Are there bottlenecks slowing you down? Tools you’re paying for but not using? Whether it’s automating customer follow-ups or switching to a better CRM, small tweaks now can save you headaches later.

Plan for 2025

Dream big, but plan smart. Set goals that are ambitious yet attainable. Break them down into quarterly milestones. If you’re still writing your goals on sticky notes (no judgment), consider upgrading to a planning tool or system. Think about what new skills, tools, or people you’ll need to hit those targets.

Celebrate Your Wins

Pop the champagne, friend. Whether this was your best year yet or a scrappy comeback, you did it. Acknowledge your hard work and resilience. Celebrate with your team, your clients, or even your cat (they’ve been listening to your Zoom calls all year, after all).

Take Time for Yourself

Folgers may be good to the last drop, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Carve out some time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with what matters most to you. The world will still be there when you’re ready to jump back in.