Out With the Old, In With the New

But before we go there…

Next week get ready for our second deep dive into the Premier Lacrosse League and how they’re shaking up the business model of sports. If you missed the first deep installment, check it out in our archive. 

1. Elevating Strategic Impact with Agile

Hey there, strategy superstars! You already know your way around a SWOT analysis in your sleep. Now, let’s venture beyond the basics and explore how to supercharge your strategic impact with some next-level tactics.

Adopting Agile Methodologies

Agile isn't just for software devs anymore. Incorporating agile methodologies means embracing flexibility and adaptability in your planning. 

Start implementing agile practices in small, manageable projects to foster a culture of rapid iteration and continuous improvement. Check out the Agile Project Management Course on Coursera or the Agile Crash Course for Beginners on Udemy to get started.

Don’t believe us? Have a look at this article from Big Think about how, by reinventing its approach to innovation using Agile, Microsoft opened up a lead over Google in the race for artificial intelligence.

By adopting this strategy, you’re not just making an impact; you’re setting the stage for sustained success and a legacy of innovative forward thinking. 

2. 10 Minutes with Sarah Olson

Welcome to our next episode of "The Best 10 Minutes of Your Day" We had the pleasure of chatting with Fractional Strategy Director and member Sarah Olson (Linkedin). 

Sarah is one of our superstar consultants at Keenan Reid Strategies. What makes her a rock star consultant is her background in investment banking and finance. In fact, she was the first female hired into the technology team at SunTrust Robinson Humphrey. 

Sarah has also applied her financial finesse to her own real estate development firm. It offers her a creative outlet to play with the design aspects - not her core strength. How does she do it? Welp, imitation is the most sincere form of flattery. (Hint: Steal Like an Artist is a great read!)

But what really gives Sarah her superpowers is her prowess in building relationships, showing up every day and being a go-to resource for her team. She fine tuned those skills living in Rwanda and working for the Peace Core. 

Get to know Sarah by listening to the entire conversation.

3. Cutting your 2023 Tax Bill: Last-Minute Tips

Calling all freelance gurus and consulting maestros! The year's end is nigh, and it's prime time to get savvy with your taxes. No LLC? No sweat! Here are five clever moves to dial down that tax bill:

Deduction Bonanza: Gather all those business expenses. Home office setup? That counts. Client meeting travels? Absolutely. Keep those receipts; they're like golden tickets to tax deductions. If you’re not leasing a car, make sure that you’re also keeping track of mileage. 

Retirement Stash: Tuck away some earnings into an IRA. It's like a secret compartment in your financial suitcase that lowers your taxable income. No IRA yet? Look into a SEP IRA for more generous contribution limits.

Income Juggling: Consider pushing some of your earnings into the next year, especially if it means staying in a friendlier tax bracket. It's like strategic financial chess.

Health Insurance Deductions: Self-paying for your health plan? Those premiums can often be subtracted from your income. It's a smart move for both your health and wallet.

Learn and Earn: Invest in your professional growth. Courses and workshops to sharpen your skills are not just brain-boosters—they often qualify as tax deductions too.

As always, your accountant or tax advisor is the best person to help you navigate deductions and plan to take advantage of changes in the tax codes in 2024. 

LLC = YES: As you map out the upcoming business year, ponder the idea of setting up an LLC. It’s a strategic play that could offer perks like tax flexibility and personal liability protection. It's like upgrading your business armor for the next level of your consulting quest. Be sure to check out our Business Setup Guide and Tax Planner for a deep dive on how you can best keep the most of your hard earned cash in your own pocket. 

4. Chasing the Aurora: A Luxe Guide to the Northern Lights

Winter is here and it’s time to lean in by ticking the Northern Lights off your bucket list, but in a way that screams luxury and style. Buckle up, celestial chasers! We're taking you on a starlit journey to the best locales where the aurora dances, paired with swanky stays, gourmet bites, and some extra special activities.

Tromsø, Norway: Arctic Sophistication

• Stay: Enter the Arctic Panorama Lodge, where luxury meets the wild. Picture yourself sipping champagne in a jacuzzi, with the Northern Lights unfolding above.

• Dine: Emma's Drømmekjøkken is where fine dining meets Norwegian comfort. Their reindeer dish is a must-try – it's like a cuddle from the inside!

• Do More: Grab your snowshoes for a trek in the Lyngen Alps. It's not just a hike; it's an encounter with pristine Arctic wilderness.

Reykjavik, Iceland: Chic and Unique

• Stay: Check into the Tower Suites Reykjavik. It's like living in the clouds, but with a perfect view of the aurora and city below.

• Dine: DILL Restaurant offers a New Nordic culinary adventure. Their tasting menu is a symphony of local, seasonal flavors that'll make your taste buds dance.

• Do More: Situated in Husavik, North Iceland, GeoSea offers a unique experience with its seawater baths that overlook the ocean. It's an ideal spot for those looking to combine wellness with stunning ocean views.

Yellowknife, Canada: Northern Charm

• Stay: Aurora Village offers a luxurious twist on traditional teepee living. Cozy, unique, and with a front-row seat to the Northern Lights.

• Dine: The Woodyard Brewhouse & Eatery serves up warmth and local brews. Try their bison burger for a true taste of the North.

• Do More: Dog sledding is the exhilarating cherry on top of this icy adventure cake. Glide through the snow-laden landscapes with your new four-legged friends.

Wherever you choose to chase the Northern Lights, you're in for a dazzling display of nature's finest show, wrapped in luxury and local charm. Remember, it's not just about the destination; it's about making the journey unforgettable!

Remember, the path to success is paved with continuous learning and embracing fresh perspectives. So let's stay connected, share ideas, and elevate your consulting business.

Stay curious, our friends.

TheConsult.co brought to you by Keenan Reid Strategies

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