164. My 2026 Planning Process (Structure That Creates Freedom)

In this final episode of 2025, I’m sharing exactly how I plan for a new year in a way that feels grounded, supportive, and sustainable. This isn’t hustle planning or rigid goal setting. It’s the process I use to create structure that actually frees me.

I walk you through my full end of year reflection ritual, how I set intentions across every area of my life, and why regulation, capacity, and self trust matter more than forcing motivation. If you want 2026 to feel different, this episode will show you how to plan in a way your nervous system can actually hold.

TOPICS & TANGENTS:
• My full end of year planning process from reflection to strategy
• Monthly reviews and why I track the year as it’s happening
• Celebrating what actually worked instead of rushing past it
• Setting intentions for life, not just business
• Script style intention setting and nervous system safety
• Why structure creates freedom, not restriction
• The difference between ease and avoidance
• Planning with ADHD and limited capacity
• Breaking goals into 15 minute or less tasks
• Working backwards to avoid all or nothing burnout
• Why consistency beats intensity every time
• Taking things off your plate before adding more

POINT OF THE STORY:
Ease doesn’t come from doing less or avoiding effort. It comes from resourcing yourself before, during, and after the work. When your plans honor your capacity, structure becomes the thing that creates freedom instead of pressure.

MENTIONED:
• Episode 160: How I Plan Profit Without Burning Out
• End of year reflection and intention setting practices
• Nervous system regulation and capacity based planning

If you’ve been craving more ease, more clarity, and more support heading into 2026, this episode is your invitation to slow down, reflect honestly, and build a plan that actually serves you.

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MORE ABOUT ASH
I am the definition of duality — I swear like a sailor and break rules like it’s my job, but I also hold incredible space for my clients and work my ass off to help them achieve the success they’re after. But I'm also here for the non-preneur woman, too. My background in counseling gives me a unique perspective on what it means to show up, serve, & create connection for those who feel like they've never belonged before.

LINKS:

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• Website: ashmcdonaldmentoring.com

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