Getting back into the swing of work after a long holiday

Getting back into the swing of work after a long holiday 

Reset, refocus, and set goals for a strong start 

After a well-earned break, getting back into work mode can feel like a challenge. The inbox is full, tasks are piling up, and shifting back into a productive routine takes time. Rather than jumping straight into the daily grind, taking a step back to set clear goals can make all the difference in setting yourself up for a successful year ahead. 

Goal setting isn’t just about ticking off tasks—it’s about creating a roadmap that keeps you focused, motivated, and on track to grow your business. Whether you’re looking to increase loan settlements, strengthen client relationships, or refine your processes, setting the right goals now will help you make the most of the months ahead.

Why goal setting matters 

Setting goals gives your business direction. Instead of feeling reactive and overwhelmed, having a clear plan helps you prioritise what matters most. When done right, goal setting: 

For mortgage brokers, structured goals can lead to better client retention, increased referrals, and a stronger market presence. It’s about working smarter, not harder, to drive sustainable business growth.

Steps to effective goal setting 

1. Reflect on the past year 

Before setting new goals, take time to reflect on the past year. What worked well? What could be improved? Reviewing your successes and challenges helps identify areas for growth and ensures you’re building on a solid foundation. 

Ask yourself: 

• What were my biggest achievements last year? 

• What challenges did I face, and how did I overcome them? 

• Where are the biggest opportunities for growth? 

By understanding where you’ve been, you can set goals that align with where you want to go.

2. Set SMART goals 

Effective goals are more than just aspirations—they should be SMART: 

• Specific – Define exactly what you want to achieve. 

• Measurable – Set a clear benchmark for success. 

• Achievable – Ensure it’s realistic within your resources and time frame. 

• Relevant – Align it with your business objectives. 

• Time-bound – Set a deadline to stay on track. 

Instead of “I want to grow my business,” set a clear and measurable goal like: 

“I will increase my loan settlements by 15% in the next 12 months by improving my referral process and following up with past clients every quarter.”

3. Break goals into actionable steps 

Big goals can feel overwhelming, so break them down into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to boost client retention, actionable steps might include: 

• Sending a personalised check-in email to existing clients each quarter 

• Implementing a post-settlement follow-up process 

• Using AFG’s analytics reports, such as the active loan accounts report which provides the current status of loans such as fixed rate expiry dates to track client activity and identify opportunities 

To help structure your goal-setting process, check out this Sample Process Map. It provides a simple framework for mapping out business processes and ensuring goals are action-oriented.

4. Stay accountable 

Setting goals is one thing—sticking to them is another. Regularly reviewing your progress can help keep you accountable and motivated. Some ways to stay on track include: 

• Setting monthly or quarterly check-ins to assess progress 

• Joining a peer accountability group or engaging with a mentor 

• Using digital tools like business dashboards, goal-tracking apps, or spreadsheets to monitor progress and adjust your strategy as needed. 

Celebrating small wins along the way can also keep you motivated. Each step forward is progress. 

5. Prioritise work-life balance 

While setting ambitious goals is important, balance is key to long-term success. Burnout can derail even the best plans, so ensure your goals support a sustainable work-life balance. 

Strategies to maintain balance: 

• Set boundaries around work hours and client communication 

• Allocate time for professional development and personal growth 

• Recognise and reward yourself for hitting milestones 

A sustainable approach to goal setting ensures long-term success rather than short-term exhaustion.

Using AFG tools to support your goals 

AFG provides a range of tools and insights to help brokers stay on track. From analytics to industry training and networking opportunities, leveraging these resources can make a big difference in achieving your goals. 

Some key tools to consider: 

• AFG Analytics Reports – Utilise Analytics range of reports to inform your decision-making. 

• AFG Learn – Access training and development resources to sharpen your skills. 

• AFG Events – Connect with peers and industry leaders for insights and support. 

• PM Update newsletter – Keep up to date with insights, updates, and more. 

If you’re looking for more ways to level up your brokerage, explore the other articles in this blog. It’s packed with valuable articles covering industry insights, best practices, and strategies to help you grow.