In this solo episode, Alex reframes Q4 as a bridge into 2027, not a time to coast, panic or write the year off. With around twelve weeks left, she shares a calm, practical approach to finishing the year with clarity, cash flow and momentum, without running yourself into the ground.

If you're feeling behind, flat or tempted to "start properly in January", this one is for you.

In this episode:

• Why "coasting mode" feels safe but often leads to a stressful January
• Five reflection questions to audit your year using real data, not just feelings
• Redefining growth beyond "more": fewer hours, higher prices, better clients, stronger systems
• Choosing one priority per month and one action per week
• Six Q4 growth opportunities: past clients, pre-selling January, raising prices, the festive season, tidying your finances and one simple offer
• Visibility, testimonials and aligned collaboration
• Clearing open loops, simplifying systems and setting Christmas boundaries early
• Why the best January starts with planning in November

BOOK YOUR 2027 BUSINESS PLANNING WORKSHOP
A relaxed, practical morning to look back on 2026 and plan your next 12 months with clarity. All stages welcome.

Every ticket includes:

• A pre-workshop mini audit
• Alex's simple goal-setting and planning framework
• Guided visualisation
• A panel of three business owners sharing their planning habits
• A bonus online accountability session in mid-January

Choose your date:
Shrewsbury: Tue 24 Nov, 10am to 12.30pm, Lion & Pheasant Hotel
https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/2027businessplanningshrewsbury
Woburn Sands: Fri 27 Nov, 10am to 12.30pm, Frosts
https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/2027businessplanningwoburn
Online: Wed 2 Dec, 10am to 12pm
https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/2027businessplanningonline

In-person guests also get a printed workbook, pen, surprise goodies, pastries and refreshments.

Tickets: £48 in person, £38 online, or add £100 to go VIP and get a 60-minute 1:1 with Alex.

Spaces are limited, so book your place soon.
Business training can often be tax deductible, so check with your accountant.

Timestamps
00:00 Why this episode was recorded twice
02:45 Why Q4 shapes this year and next
04:03 What coasting mode looks like
09:31 Five questions to audit your year
15:00 Redefining growth beyond "more"
18:28 Defining a high finish
19:34 One priority per month, one action per week
22:02 Six Q4 growth opportunities
27:21 Visibility and relationships
29:00 Why collaboration speeds up growth
29:38 Clearing open loops
33:10 Christmas boundaries and front-loading Q4
34:25 Why the best January starts before January
35:25 Inside the 2027 planning workshops
37:24 Dates, locations and pricing
39:46 Don't write off the rest of the year

Quotes
"Q4 is not the end of the year. It is a bridge."
"Focus trumps effort every single time."
"You are not behind. You are exactly where you need to be to start."

Connect with Alex
Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com
Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Share your "I'll know I've finished 2026 on a high if..." sentence with Alex on Instagram.