We all know January is full of new goals, fresh calendars, and high hopes. But here’s a truth that often gets overlooked: your business doesn’t grow because of your goals , it grows because of your relationships.

If you want to start strong in 2026, don’t just focus on what you want to do, focus on who you want to build with.

Here are 3 ways to start this year with heart, not hustle.

1. Reconnect With Dormant Contacts

Every entrepreneur has a “should-have” list — past clients, connections from networking events, people we meant to follow up with… but didn’t. This January, pull that list out.

Start small: reach out to 3 people with a short note of appreciation or check-in message.

💡 Pro Tip: Use a tool like Digital ACTs to send messages instantly (no address needed).

2. Make Appreciation Part of Your Strategy

Don’t save your thank-you cards for the holidays. Appreciation is a year-round growth strategy that builds trust, loyalty, and referrals.

January 23 is National Handwriting Day—the perfect excuse to send your first card of the year.

Need a boost? Download my free guide, The Gratitude Shift, for 7 simple prompts to make your messages memorable.

3. Reflect Before You Reach

Before you focus on building external connections, take 15 minutes to reflect on your values, intentions, and vision for 2026. The clarity you get will shape how you show up and how others feel around you.

Want help staying intentional throughout the year? That’s what I do.

This year, let connection be your competitive edge.

✨ It’s not your follow-up script.
✨ It’s not your perfectly crafted funnel.

It’s your ability to make someone feel seen, in the moment it matters.

That’s what we’re building here at GrandeConnections.
Want to join us?

📥 Grab the free guide: www.grandeconnections.com/the-gratitude-shift