600 | Year-End Reflections: Turning Insights into Action for Next Year

The Chris LoCurto Show

The end of the year is here, and with it comes a crucial opportunity: setting yourself up for success in the next year.
In this episode of The Chris LoCurto Show, I’m joined by our VP of Leadership Development (and my daughter), Lyneé South. We’re pulling back the curtain to show you how we close out our businesses for the year, why it’s so important, and how you can do the same.
If you’ve ever wondered how to properly evaluate your business’s financial health, plan for the future, and set yourself up to win, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and examples to guide you through it all.
Episode Breakdown: Key Sections and Takeaways
Introduction (00:00:00)
Why year-end planning is the secret weapon of successful business leaders.
Introduction to Year-End Closeout Process (00:01:52)
Lyneé kicks off the conversation by asking why year-end closeout is critical for sustainable success.
Financial Closeout and Planning (00:09:10)
Discover the key reports and metrics that guide my decision-making—P&L, budgets vs. actuals, and more.
Goal Setting and Reflection (00:20:39)
How to use financial data and business wins to adjust and solidify your goals for the upcoming year.
Acquisitions: Physical and Human Resources (00:31:00)
Why understanding your business needs versus wants is crucial when evaluating new hires or assets.
Reflection on Culture and Company Vision (00:39:41)
Assessing whether your culture aligns with your company vision and how to keep your team motivated and connected.
Advice for Other Business Owners (00:52:57)
Overwhelmed? Here’s how to take the first step toward mastering your business closeout process.
Conclusion (00:58:44)
Final thoughts on vulnerability, seeking help, and crushing the fear of judgment to grow your business.
Practical Examples for Every Step
Throughout the episode, we provide real-world examples from our own businesses to illustrate each point. Whether it's balancing budgets, setting team goals, or building a culture of accountability, you’ll see exactly how these strategies play out.
So grab your notepad and get ready to take your year-end planning to the next level. Let’s close out this year strong and set you up for success in the year ahead!