Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for Creatives

Year-End Financial Review: Turn Your Numbers Into a 2026 Action Plan


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You've closed the books on 2025, reviewed your numbers, and built your forecast—now what? Most creative entrepreneurs stop right there, but the real power comes from turning all that financial clarity into a roadmap you can actually follow. In this episode of Creative Minds, Smart Money, I'm walking you through a mini strategy session you can do yourself with just a notebook, your favorite drink, and an honest look at what worked (and what didn't) in 2025.

Topics Covered

In this episode, I cover:

  • Why reflection beats resolution — How analyzing your 2025 financial wins and energy drains helps you avoid overcommitment in 2026

  • Finding your one main focus — Why narrowing down to a single North Star goal (like increasing profit margin or building sustainable cash flow) makes every decision easier

  • The Core Four framework — Four key pillars your business needs to rest on: financial systems, offer alignment, operational flow, and owner well-being

  • Setting up your rhythm of review — Monthly money dates, quarterly strategy checks, and year-end reflections that keep you on track without burnout

  • Turning strategy into action — How to break big goals into small, clear steps so you actually implement instead of just planning

    If you're ready to stop putting out fires and start thinking bigger about your business, this episode gives you the exact framework to walk into 2026 with clarity and power. You've done the hard work of cleaning your books and understanding your numbers—now it's time to trust yourself and use what you've built.


    Resources & Links

    Website: https://firestormfinance.com/

    Book a Discovery Call: https://firestormfinance.com/contact

    Freebie: 5-Minute Money Clarity Checklist: https://firestormfinance.myflodesk.com/5minutemoneyclarity


    Listen & Subscribe:

    • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creative-minds-smart-money-finance-business-tips-for/id1751025388

    • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2m2SRDIAEjeWSXOgKS4Ff4

      Social Media:

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        Creative Minds, Smart Money: Finance & Business Tips for CreativesBy Samantha Eck | Bookkeeper for Creatives