Ever feel like you're so busy serving clients that you never have time to work ON your business? In this episode, gathering expert Tes Cohen reveals her systematic approach to building reflection into her consulting practice. From annual "personal offsites" to monthly reset days, learn how intentional pauses can lead to better business decisions and sustainable growth. Plus, Tes shares her "confession" about finally updating her unwieldy client tracking system during one of these reflection periods—proof that sometimes we need to slow down to speed up.

If you've been running your consulting business on autopilot, this conversation offers a practical roadmap for incorporating strategic reflection into your routine. Discover why taking time away from client work isn't just self-indulgent—it's essential for business growth. Learn how to structure your reflection time, what questions to ask yourself, and how to turn insights into action. Tes shares candid examples of how these practices have shaped her business evolution, from revamping basic systems to making major strategic pivots.

👉 Ready to build more intentional reflection into your consulting practice? Listen now and connect with Tes at gatherbetter.co!

5 Key Takeaways:

• Schedule Deep Work Time Block off regular time for business strategy and improvement, whether it's monthly, quarterly, or annually
• Create Clear Structures Use consistent frameworks and questions to guide your reflection process
• Balance Review & Planning Look back at what's working (and what isn't) before planning future moves
• Implement Simple Systems Focus on manageable improvements that you'll actually maintain
• Connect Personal & Professional Include both business metrics and personal wellbeing in your reflection practice

Find Us Online: https://www.confessionswithjessandcindy.com

Connect with Tes:

Transformative Gatherings: http://transformativegatherings.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tescohen/

Connect with Cindy:

Cindy Wagman Coaching: cindywagman.com

Fractional Fundraising Network: fractionalfundraising.co/

LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cindywagman

Connect with Jess:

Out In the Boons: outintheboons.me

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jesscampbelloutntiheboons/

Resources:

The Art of Gathering by Priya Parker

Hustle and Play Planner

Canva

Google Workspace

Building Better Together Community