“He who does not look ahead is left behind.” – African proverb
As October approaches, we stand at an important threshold: just two months left in 2025. It's tempting to focus on finishing the year, chasing quarterly goals, or fixing pending operational issues. Yet, wise business leaders know now is the perfect time to raise their sights. The real question is not just how you'll end 2025, but how you're preparing for the start of 2026.
Why planning matters now
Every January, many businesses struggle to prepare budgets, rearrange teams, or set new priorities – often under pressure and with limited clarity. But the strongest organizations treat the last quarter as a launchpad, not an afterthought. By planning now, you create a seamless transition, avoid making reactive decisions, and give your team confidence about the path forward.
Questions to guide your 2026 planning
What lessons has 2025 taught you?
Have you taken an honest review of wins, losses, and blind spots?
Where are you seeing growth in 2026?
Are you relying on legacy revenue sources, or are you investing in innovation, new markets or talent development?
What risks should you mitigate?
From regulatory changes to currency volatility, how strong are your contingency plans?
Is your team ready?
Without capable people, strategy fails. Do you have the right skills or a plan to acquire them?
What legacy are you creating?
Beyond profit, what purpose or impact will define your enterprise in 2026?
“But the strongest organizations treat the last quarter as a launchpad, not an afterthought. By planning now, you create a smooth transition, avoid making reactive decisions, and give your team confidence about the road ahead.”
HR dimensions
Human capital is at the center of this transformation. The best business plans for 2026 will include:
Re-skilling initiatives to prepare employees for new technologies and markets.
Succession planning to reduce reliance on single leaders.
Clear performance framework to link employee contributions to enterprise goals.
In short, your 2026 plan is incomplete if it does not integrate people strategy along with financial projections.
conclusion
The African proverb reminds us: “He who does not look ahead is left behind.” With only two months left in the year, the smartest step you can take is to take time to reflect and plan.
So ask yourself today: What is your 2026 blueprint? Has it been written, communicated, and resourced – or is it still an aspiration waiting to be addressed in January?
For leaders and entrepreneurs, the answer will determine not only how you end 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.
