Two months to go: How are you planning for 2026?
“He who does not look ahead remains behind.” — African proverb
As October draws to a close, we stand at a critical threshold: just two months left in 2025. It is tempting to focus on wrapping up the year, chasing quarterly targets, or fixing lingering operational issues. Yet, wise business leaders know that this is the perfect moment to lift their gaze. The real question is not just how you will finish 2025, but how you are preparing to begin 2026.
Why planning now matters
Every January, many businesses scramble to craft budgets, realign teams, or set new priorities—often under pressure and with limited clarity. But the strongest organisations treat the final quarter as a launchpad, not an afterthought. By planning now, you create a smoother transition, avoid reactive decision-making, and give your team confidence about the road ahead.
Questions to guide your 2026 planning
What lessons has 2025 taught you?
Have you conducted an honest review of wins, losses, and blind spots?
Where is your growth coming from in 2026?
Are you relying on old revenue streams, or are you investing in innovation, new markets, or talent development?
What risks must you mitigate?
From regulatory changes to currency volatility, how robust are your contingency plans?
Is your team prepared?
Strategy fails without capable people. Do you have the right skills in place—or a plan to acquire them?
What legacy are you building?
Beyond profit, what purpose or impact will define your enterprise in 2026?
“But the strongest organisations treat the final quarter as a launchpad, not an afterthought. By planning now, you create a smoother transition, avoid reactive decision-making, and give your team confidence about the road ahead.”
The HR dimension
Human capital is central to this transition. The best business plans for 2026 will include:
Reskilling initiatives to prepare staff for new technologies and markets.
Succession planning to reduce dependency on single leaders.
Clear performance frameworks to link employee contributions with enterprise goals.
In short, your 2026 plan is incomplete if it does not integrate people strategy alongside financial projections.
Conclusion
The African proverb reminds us: “He who does not look ahead remains behind.” With just two months left in the year, the wisest step you can take is to carve out time for reflection and planning.
So ask yourself today: what is your 2026 blueprint? Is it written down, communicated, and resourced—or is it still an aspiration waiting for attention in January?
For leaders and entrepreneurs, the answer will determine not only how you close this year, but how boldly you step into the next.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo is the CEO of Strategic Outsourcing Limited, a leading provider of personnel and business process outsourcing services in Nigeria. He is also a regular columnist on employment and workforce strategy.
