A Tradie’s No-BS Guide to Life and Business in 2025

New Year’s resolutions can be as useless as a blunt saw if you don’t have a solid plan. 

So, when it’s time to put down the beers after holidays in 2025 and time to talk about how to smash 2025—both on the tools and at home. 

This isn’t your typical “manifest your dreams” fluff. 

We’re talking no-BS strategies to level up your business and life.

Reflect on 2024: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Before you start making big plans, take a moment to think about last year. 

Did you hit your goals, or were you winging it like a cowboy? 

Ask yourself:

• What went right? (Pat yourself on the back for those wins.)
• What went wrong? (Don’t sugarcoat it—own your stuff.)
• What habits or systems made your life easier? (Keep ‘em!)

Define Your Vision: Know What You Want

Success isn’t one size fits all. Maybe you want more cash in the bank, more time with the kids, or just fewer 12-hour days. 

Split your goals into two categories:

Personal Goals: These aren’t just for the missus to nag you about. 

Think, what you want to achieve?

• Drop a few kilos so you don’t get puffed on the tools.
• Be more present with the family (yes, that means putting down your phone).
• Finally fix that dodgy gate at home.

Professional Goals: Whether you’re on the tools or running the show:

• Bring in bigger jobs with less stress.
• Get the team running like a well-oiled machine.
• Sort out your admin (because we all know you hate it).

Set SMART Goals: Stop Dreaming, Start Doing

Here’s the thing about goals: they’re pointless without a plan. 

Use the SMART framework—and no, that doesn’t mean “She’ll Be Right, Mate.”

• Specific: Don’t just say, “I want to make more money.” Say, “I want to increase revenue by 20%.”
• Measurable: Know when you’ve hit the mark.
• Achievable: Be ambitious, but don’t kid yourself.
• Relevant: Make sure it’ll actually improve your life.
• Time-bound: Give yourself a deadline (no “whenever” BS).

Build Systems and Habits: Work Smarter, Not Harder

Good intentions won’t make change.

• Automate the boring stuff. Tools like ServiceM8 can handle invoicing so you don’t have to.
• Delegate. You don’t need to do everything yourself. Trust your team.
• Schedule regular check-ins to see if you’re on track (don’t wait until December to realise you’re off course).

Balance Work and Life: Don’t Be That Bloke

You know the one—all work, no play, stressed to the max. 

Don’t let your business run your life. Balance is key:

• Health First: Hit the gym or go for a run (your body will thank you).
• Family Time: Put in effort where it counts. 
• The missus and kids want YOU, not just your wallet.
• Fun: Yes, you’re allowed to enjoy yourself. Make time for mates and hobbies.

Accountability: Get Someone to Call You Out

Let’s be real: it’s easy to make excuses. Get a mate, your coach, or even the missus to keep you honest. 

Stay Flexible: Life Happens

If 2024 taught us anything, it’s that sh*t happens. Don’t throw in the towel when things don’t go to plan. Adapt, adjust, and keep moving forward.

2025 is your year. Whether it’s doubling down on your business, hitting the gym, or finally fixing that dodgy gate, the key is to make a plan and stick to it. 

Success isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up, putting in the work, and celebrating the wins—big or small.

So, what’s it going to be? 

Another year of just getting by, or the year you finally nail it? The choice is yours.