How to Audit Your Business Systems Before the New Year

Layne Martin
Dec 14, 2025
2 min read

Updated: Dec 15, 2025

As I wrap up a ten-day trip to Malta, I’m reminded how good systems create freedom.The water here is impossibly blue, the limestone glows gold at sunset, and my business is still running smoothly — because my systems don’t depend on me being at my desk.

If you want 2026 to be the year your business starts supporting your ideal lifestyle, this is the perfect time to audit your systems and make sure they’re ready to carry you forward.

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Here’s your quick, actionable checklist to start the new year strong 👇

Download a pdf of the checklist here:

1️⃣ Review Your Task Management

Are all your projects and deadlines clearly tracked (Asana, Trello, Notion, etc.)?
Are recurring tasks automated or templated where possible?
Clear out outdated projects that no longer serve your goals.

2️⃣ Audit Your Financial Systems

Are invoices up-to-date and categorized correctly?
Are subscriptions still worth their cost?
Make sure bookkeeping, taxes, and expenses are organized for a clean slate in 2026.

3️⃣ Evaluate Communication Workflows

Do clients and team members know where to find info?
Is your knowledge base current (Notion, Google Drive, etc.)?
Are response times and guidelines working — or creating friction?

4️⃣ Assess Marketing & Sales

Review your lead generation and content systems.
Which campaigns worked this year, and which can be retired or refreshed?
Update automations, templates, and email sequences.

5️⃣ Plan for Tools & Tech

Do your tools still serve your workflow efficiently?
Remove what you don’t use — explore what could save time or increase revenue.

Pro tip: Schedule a 2–3 hour “systems audit session” with your assistant before the year ends. You’ll start 2026 with clarity, momentum, and a business that runs like clockwork — whether you’re in Malta, Montana, or Marrakech.