Both professionally and personally, I find it valuable to pause and reflect on the recent past, both the things that have happened around me and the things that I have done. As we approach the middle of the year, it's a perfect time to do just that.

In this week's trend report I share my favorite ways to review the business year to date before addressing plans for the second half of the year.

Trend report topics:

• The importance of looking back to inform movement forward
• Reminding yourself of your original goals
• Reviewing your efforts — what worked and what didn't?
• What are your takeaways from the year so far? How will you approach the next 90 days?
• Use this review to assess each area of your business
• Involving a trusted business partner or high-level leader in the process

For more information on this and related retail trends visit MerchantMethod.com.