Every new year brings a fresh opportunity for growth, reinvention, and strategic action. For entrepreneurs and CEOs, resolutions aren’t just a personal motivation—they define the direction of entire companies. As we head into 2026, here are the top New Year’s resolutions every business leader should be making, with inspiration from some of today’s most forward-thinking companies and leaders.
1. Offer Better Benefits to Employees
Inspired by LegalEASE
Your team is the heart of your business. In 2026, commit to strengthening employee satisfaction and retention by offering competitive, meaningful benefits. From enhanced healthcare options to flexible working arrangements, prioritizing benefits not only improves morale—it boosts productivity and loyalty.
2. Modernize Your Tech Stack
Inspired by Bellwood & Monday.com
Outdated software and disjointed systems slow teams down. Resolve to update company software and streamline workflows across your organization. Tools like Monday.com and Bellwood can help unify operations, increase transparency, and eliminate bottlenecks. When your tech works for you—not against you—you build a smarter, more agile company.
3. Make Scheduling Effortless
Inspired by Calendly
Time is your most valuable resource. Entrepreneurs and CEOs should resolve to make scheduling seamless for themselves and their teams. Tools like Calendly reduce back-and-forth emails, minimize no-shows, and create predictable time windows for deep work and client connections.
4. Stay Connected & Expand Your Network
Inspired by LinkedIn & SXSW Innovation Conference
Networking isn’t just for job seekers—it’s a growth engine for every leader. Make it your resolution to stay connected and meet new people on platforms like LinkedIn and, importantly, in person.
Find and attend a top business networking conference like the SXSW Innovation Conference—it’s an investment in future relationships, referrals, and insights that can move your business forward.
5. Invest in Personal & Professional Growth
Inspired by Scott Curley and Marie Forleo
Continued learning fuels smarter decisions and stronger leadership. Consider working with a mid-level business coach like Marie Forleo to sharpen strategy and accountability. And take a page from Scott Curley’s playbook “Absolution: The Dark Path To Light”—resolution to read more! Dive into his book to gain practical wisdom, refresh your perspective, and kickstart your year with actionable strategies.
6. Integrate AI Into Your Business
Inspired by Coretek
Artificial intelligence isn’t the future—it’s now. Make it a resolution to integrate AI into your business this year. From customer service automation to analytics and personalization, AI can unlock powerful efficiencies and deeper insights. Partner with experts like Coretek to build a roadmap that fits your business’s needs.
7. Refresh Your Brand & Marketing Materials
Inspired by Ink Factory Design
Your story evolves—and so should your brand. Resolve to bring your business story to life by updating marketing materials: refreshed websites, engaging videos, sharper visuals, and brand narratives that connect emotionally with your audience. Ink Factory Design can help you elevate your visual identity and tell your story in a way that resonates.
8. Solve Hiring & Employment Challenges
Inspired by Samuel Hale
Attracting and retaining talent is one of the biggest strategic challenges leaders face. Make 2026 the year you tackle employment hurdles with intention. From refining recruiting processes to improving employee experience and culture, take steps to make your company a place people want to build careers.
9. Buy Smarter Ads & Grow Your Reach
Inspired by Aditude
Advertising still works—when it’s done strategically. Resolve to invest in performance-driven advertising that deepens brand awareness and fuels growth. Whether it’s display, search, or social ads, partners like Aditude can help you make every marketing dollar count.
10. Delegate Better & Execute Your Vision
Inspired by Jamie Munoz, Catalyst Integrators
Vision without execution has limited impact. One of the most powerful resolutions you can make is to bring on the right operational support. Hiring a fractional integrator or a strategic right-hand leader—like Jamie Munoz at Catalyst Integrators—can help you execute faster, free up your schedule, and ensure your strategy actually gets done.
11. Prioritize Work-Life Balance & Recharge Through Travel
Inspired by Synt Travel & Uplift Desk
Achievement isn’t just about the accolades—it’s about the experiences that fuel you. As a leader, committing to work-life balance isn’t a luxury—it’s a strategic advantage. Make this the year you invest in your well-being by intentionally scheduling time for rest, adventure, and inspiration.
Whether it’s a much-needed vacation that reignites your creativity or a wellness-driven trip that helps you return with renewed energy, working with a travel experience partner like Synt Travel can help you plan memorable journeys without the stress of logistics. synttravel.com
And back at the office, tools like Uplift Desk can create a healthier, more ergonomic workspace so your body and mind stay strong throughout the year.
Balance isn’t just about stepping away—it’s about coming back stronger.
Final Thought
New Year’s resolutions for entrepreneurs and CEOs shouldn’t be lofty aspirations that fade by February. They should be strategic commitments that align with where you want your business—and your life—to be a year from now.
So choose a few, make a plan, and take action.
Here’s to your best year yet. 🚀