#USA #Frederick #Chad Smith #Elite Blueprint #Five Lions Digital

Debunking the January Reset Myth

As entrepreneurs start planning for the upcoming year, many tend to fall into a common misconception: they believe that the arrival of January offers a clean slate and a miraculous reset for their businesses. Chad Smith, a business strategist based in Frederick, Maryland, vehemently challenges this notion, stating, "January doesn't save your business — it exposes it."

Smith, who is the founder of Five Lions Digital and the author of The Elite Acquisition Blueprint, argues that waiting until the new year to address issues is a mistake that can lead to significant setbacks. He explains, “If you don’t fix your systems now, you’re simply transporting the same problems into the new year.” This philosophy has become increasingly important, especially as inflation continues to strain small business budgets and year-end deadlines loom large.

The Importance of Momentum

According to HubSpot's 2025 State of Marketing Report, over 68% of small business owners report that they lose momentum during the last quarter of the year. Smith identifies this slowdown as a pivotal error. He emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to maintain their momentum rather than easing off. "As soon as you take your foot off the gas, you teach your business to slow down. When January arrives, you’re not starting strong; you’re merely playing catch-up."

The idea of a new year being a fresh start can paradoxically hinder true progress, according to Smith. He firmly believes that genuine momentum stems from consistency and proactive action today, rather than waiting for a calendar shift.

The Elite Acquisition Blueprint: A Roadmap for Success

In his book, The Elite Acquisition Blueprint, Smith delivers a straightforward guide aimed at helping service-based entrepreneurs attract better clients and close more deals without risking burnout. The book emphasizes:

• - Crafting offers that distinguish you as the best choice
• - Developing a client acquisition system that operates seamlessly
• - Converting leads without the pressure often associated with sales
• - Replacing "hope marketing" with systematic and predictable strategies

One notable success story comes from Donna Jones, a business owner who implemented Smith's framework. She reveals, “We struggled to attract consistent clients. After applying Chad's methods, we built a clear strategy, gained confidence, and saw immediate results. It simply works.”

Transformative Action for Entrepreneurs

Smith’s mission transcends simply selling books; his goal is to empower business owners to break free from what he calls the cycle of "waiting until next year". He aims to instill the mindset that immediate action is crucial for real success. "This isn’t just about knowledge—it's about making a transformation. I want to guide entrepreneurs to stop waiting for approval to succeed and instead start creating significant momentum right now," he asserts.

To further this mission, Smith is collaborating with local business organizations and chambers to share his insights directly with small business owners across Maryland and beyond.

Engaging Opportunities Ahead

On November 1st, Smith will be hosting an exclusive book signing and mini-training in Hagerstown, MD, where he will discuss insights from The Elite Acquisition Blueprint. Attendees will receive the One-Page Acquisition Checklist and have the chance to participate in a Q&A session.

Smith emphasizes that this event is not only an opportunity to engage with his work but also a chance to empower entrepreneurs to act swiftly and effectively—well before the new year begins.

For more information about the book and future events, you can visit www.eliteacquisitionblueprint.com and find it at select local retailers.

In a world where waiting has become commonplace, Chad Smith is rallying the entrepreneurial community to take charge, act decisively, and change their narratives before the clock strikes midnight on the old year.

About Chad Smith

Chad Smith has dedicated his career to helping small business owners scale sustainably and confidently. Through coaching programs, speaking engagements, and partnerships with organizations like the Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce, Smith is focused on simplifying marketing and fostering sustainable growth. His innovative approaches to client acquisition and systems optimization continue to inspire entrepreneurs around the country.