End of Year Financial Reflection Questions
As we approach the end of 2025, you’re probably starting to think about 2026. But before jumping into planning for next year, it might be worth taking some time to reflect on what this year taught you about your business finances. These questions are designed to help you think beyond just "did I make money?" and start noticing larger patterns and lessons.
Grab a cup of tea and give yourself some quiet time to think through these. There are no right or wrong answers - just honest reflection about what worked, what didn't, and what you want to change.
About Your Numbers
What surprised you most about your finances this year?
Which months were your strongest financially, and why?
What expenses felt worth it, and what felt like a waste?
How accurate were your financial predictions at the beginning of the year?
About Your Relationship with Money
How did you feel when you had to make financial decisions this year?
When did you feel most financially stressed, and what triggered it?
What financial milestone felt most meaningful to you?
How has your confidence around business finances changed?
About Your Business Model
Which services or products were most profitable?
What took more time than you expected, and was it worth it?
Where did you spend time that didn't generate revenue, and how do you feel about that?
What would you do differently if you were starting this year over?
About Your Systems and Processes
What financial tasks felt hardest this year, and why?
Where did you wing it instead of having a real system?
What tools or resources made your financial management easier?
Where did disorganization cost you time, money, or stress?
Into 2026
What financial goal would make the biggest difference in your quality of life?
What do you need to learn or improve to reach your financial goals?
What support would be most helpful for your financial management next year?
If money weren't a constraint, what would you do differently in your business?
What financial habit or system do you most want to establish next year?
About Your Growth
How did your business change financially from the beginning of the year to now?
What investments in your business paid off?
Where did you underinvest, and what was the cost of that?
What financial capacity do you have now that you didn't have at the beginning of the year?
The Big Picture
How do your business finances align with your personal values and goals?
What would "financial success" look like for your business next year?
What financial lesson from this year do you most want to remember?
If you could give your past self one piece of financial advice at the beginning of this year, what would it be?
Exploring What You've Learned
If these questions resonate with you, you might consider picking 2-3 insights that feel most important and sitting with what you want to do differently next year. You don't need to solve everything at once - sometimes just identifying the patterns is enough to start.
Some people find it helpful to share their reflections with a trusted advisor, mentor, or business friend. Sometimes talking through your thoughts helps you see connections you might miss on your own.
Remember: This reflection isn't about judging yourself for financial decisions you made this year. It's about learning from your experiences so you can make decisions that feel more aligned going forward.
