The 3-step process that keeps my business (and brain) in check


Hi Reader,

Running a business can feel like trying to solve a never-ending puzzle.

There’s always another piece to fit, another decision to make, another notification demanding attention. And when you’re juggling client work, strategy, and actual life, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up.

For years, I thought the answer was just working harder. Longer days, more tools, a better planner (spoiler: it wasn’t). What actually made the difference? A simple 3-step process that keeps my business and my brain in check.

1. The Weekly Reset

I have talked about this many times on my socials and in this newsletter. Every Friday, before I close my computer, I run through three things:

  • What worked this week? (So I can do more of it.)
  • What didn’t? (So I can adjust before it becomes a pattern.)
  • What actually needs my attention next week? (So I start Monday clear, not overwhelmed.)

This tiny habit stops me from carrying unfinished thoughts into the weekend and makes Monday mornings feel lighter.

2. The ‘3 Big Things’ Rule

I used to have to-do lists that could wrap around the planet. Now? I only focus on three priorities per day (not including client work). The things that actually move my business forward. Everything else might be nice to do, but not a must.

This shift alone has:

✅ Stopped me from feeling constantly behind.

✅ Made decision-making way easier.

✅ Given me space to handle my own business strategy work.

If I get through more, great. If not, I still know the important stuff got done.

3. The Sunday Night Brain Dump

I don’t love working Sundays and rarely do, but I do love starting Monday with a clear head. So if more thoughts have popped up since my Friday Reset, I do a quick mind sweep, everything floating around in my head goes onto paper (or I email myself!). No structure, just getting it out of my head.

Then, it make it easy to:

  • Sort out what actually matters and add it to my week.
  • Delete or delegate anything that isn’t mine to handle or that I don't need to do after all.
  • Close the laptop and move on.

The Bottom Line

Running a business is never just about strategy or systems, it’s about making things feel doable, sustainable, and enjoyable! These three steps help me stay focused, get more done (without the overwhelm), and actually like my business! ❤️

If you’ve been feeling stretched too thin, give this a try. And if you already have your own version of this, I’d love to hear how you keep things in check.

Have a great week,

Katie


Who’s behind this newsletter?

Hi, I’m Katie Macdonald, a business manager, strategist, and workflow expert helping entrepreneurs and CEOs build feel-good ops foundations to scale their businesses with clarity and ease, and enjoyment.

Feel-Good Ops + Other Life Notes is designed to bring you actionable strategies and insights to help you build a feel-good ops foundation to support your big goals with ease, so you can grow sustainably and with confidence, and build a business you're proud of.

When you're ready, here's how I can help:

👉 Virtually Does It - First class business support where you need it the most. Your trusted partner for tailored day to day business support. Discover more at Virtually Does It.

👉 Consulting & Strategy - We’ll work together to design the right business foundation to support where you are now, your next stage, and beyond. Find out more here.

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