Goals, Structure, and Strategy - Building Your Business Plan
- Alice
- Jan 23
- 4 min read
When we talk to practitioners at Disco Rodeo Consulting, we often hear, “I started this practice because I wanted to do meaningful work, but now I’m buried in decisions and logistics.” Sound familiar? Starting your practice is like standing at the base of a mountain you’re determined to climb. You feel the excitement, the possibility, but there’s that voice whispering, “Where do I even begin?”
The truth is, your practice isn’t just about seeing clients and making a living. It’s about carving out a space where your vision comes to life and your passion doesn’t just exist—it thrives. To do that, you need more than hope; you need a plan. A plan that doesn’t box you in but frees you to work in a way that resonates with who you are. This guide is here to help you create a business plan that’s practical, intentional, and aligned with your purpose.
1. Your Services: The Heartbeat of Your Practice
Defining your services is the foundation of any strong business plan. This is more than a list of what you offer—it’s a reflection of your passion and expertise. For many practitioners, one-on-one sessions are the core of their work, and that’s not only okay, it’s essential. But thinking beyond this core can create opportunities for growth and innovation.
Think About This:
What do I love most about my work? Is it the one-on-one connections, the energy in group settings, or creating specialised workshops?
How do these services align with my skills and the needs of my clients?
At Disco Rodeo Consulting, we had a client recently say, “Writing out my services not only clarified what I offer but reminded me why I love this work.” Let this step serve as a reminder of why you started this journey.
2. Choosing Your Business Model: Your Practice, Your Way
Choosing a business model that supports your goals and lifestyle is crucial. Will you see clients in person from a home office, work exclusively online, or opt for a hybrid approach? The choice you make should reflect what energises you and serves your clients best.
Ask Yourself:
What type of environment allows me to do my best work?
Does a hybrid model offer the flexibility I need while maintaining strong client connections?
Business Model Options:
In-Person: Ideal for those who thrive on face-to-face interaction and personal connection.
Online: Offers flexibility and the ability to reach clients without geographical limitations.
Hybrid: A blend of both, giving you versatility in how you work.
3. Knowing Your Target Audience: Beyond the Basics
Understanding your target audience isn’t just a checkbox—it’s the key to creating services and messaging that resonate. Go beyond demographics and think about who your ideal clients are as people.
Picture This: Who do you see thriving under your guidance? What are their struggles, needs, and what do they value most in a practitioner? Creating a clear picture of your target audience helps you align your services, messaging, and even your marketing.
Reflect on This: What makes your ideal client feel understood and seen? How do your services fulfil their needs in ways others might not?
4. Embracing Core Services and Exploring Revenue Streams
One-on-one sessions may be the cornerstone of your practice—and that’s essential. But exploring additional revenue streams can bolster your financial stability and open doors for new ways to engage with your clients. This isn’t about diluting your focus; it’s about enhancing your offerings in a way that feels authentic.
Consider This:
Could a workshop series complement your individual sessions and provide value to your clients?
Would a digital course or recorded content help extend your reach?
What partnerships or community events align with your practice’s values?
At Disco Rodeo Consulting, we’ve found that practitioners who diversify thoughtfully can maintain stability and keep their work fresh and engaging.
Pro Tip: Diversifying revenue isn’t about stepping away from what you love; it’s about creating flexibility that supports your practice’s long-term goals.
5. Setting SMART (and Inspiring) Goals
Goals can feel like another item on your to-do list, but when set right, they’re a roadmap to progress. The SMART framework helps you define goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Here’s what that means in practice:
SMART Goals Explained
Specific: Define what you’re aiming to achieve (e.g., “Launch a workshop series” instead of “Do more workshops”).
Measurable: Set criteria to track progress, like attendee numbers or revenue targets.
Achievable: Make sure your goals stretch you but remain within reach.
Relevant: Align them with your practice’s mission and current priorities.
Time-bound: Set a deadline to maintain focus and momentum.
Example: “Within three months, I will create and launch an online wellness workshop that reaches at least 20 attendees and contributes to my projected revenue goals.”
Your Secret Weapon: The Goal-Setting Worksheet
To support your goal-setting process, we have developed a Goal-Setting Worksheet for solo practitioners. It’s designed to guide you through defining and tracking goals that align with your business model, target audience, and financial projections.
Wrapping It Up
Creating a business plan is more than putting words on paper; it’s a declaration of your practice’s purpose and path forward. By defining your services, choosing a business model that fits your life, understanding your target audience, exploring diverse revenue streams, and setting SMART goals, you’re building a foundation that not only supports your practice but makes it thrive.
Remember, building your solo practice is an ongoing journey. With a well-crafted plan, you’re not just maintaining a business; you’re nurturing a space that reflects your passion and connects deeply with your clients. Take that first step and make your practice the meaningful, sustainable reality you envisioned.
Ready to bring your business plan to life? Download our Goal-Setting Worksheet and start mapping out your path to a practice that thrives. For personalised guidance or to learn more about how Disco Rodeo Consulting can support you, reach out to us today. Your future practice starts now!
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