“I am looking for help in planning for 2026”

 After experiencing substantial growth in 2025, the owner of a professional services firm was wondering how to approach planning for 2026.

“I am trying to decide whether to grow the business organically or expand through acquiring another business.”

 I responded: “What will growing the business in 2026 give you that you don’t have at the moment?”

 The business owner sat back in his chair contemplating the answer before responding:  “Increased revenue, improved profitability and more cash”.

I replied: “What will that mean for you personally?”

 And then came the response that changed everything: “The funds to buy our dream home”.

 But he was not able to buy.  He was waiting for his permanent residence application to be approved which could take at least 18 months.

My response: “The best time to plant a tree was 30 years ago.  The second-best time is now!”

 Silence

I saw a look of realisation in his eyes as he leaned forward excitedly saying:  “I should start putting the plans in place to buy our dream home now such that when I am able to purchase that house, I am ready to start the purchase process.”

 He went on: “The best way to achieve that is from the additional cash flow from acquiring another business.”

 The business owner left with two strategies to implement straight away.

First:  Discuss the dream home with his wife and family.  To get clear on what they wanted.  Research the real estate market.  Put in place a savings plan for the deposit.

Second:  Approach the business owners of the target business as to their interest in selling.  If so, start that conversation about acquiring the business.

The business owner had come in asking whether to grow organically or through acquisition. He left knowing the planning question wasn’t “how should I grow?” It was “what am I growing FOR?” Once he knew the answer – the dream home – the 18-month “obstacle” became 18 months of preparation.