As a business owner, it’s easy to focus on growth and the hustle. But if you’re finding that your business’s cash balance is smaller than you’d like, it might not just be the economy—it could be your spending habits. Let’s dive into why your business is struggling to save money and, more importantly, what you can do about it right now.
Work/Life Balance: Spending Edition
If you're finding it tough to build cash in your business, it's possible that your personal spending habits are playing a role. Entrepreneurs who manage their personal finances well—by budgeting, staying debt-free, and making thoughtful long-term investments—often see similar habits reflected in their businesses. On the flip side, if you tend to spend as money comes in and hope to figure things out later, your business might be mirroring that same approach. It’s all about aligning your personal and business financial habits for a healthier balance.
This “spend now, worry later” mentality is common, especially when we’re convinced that business growth should be fast, flashy, and instant. But here's the harsh truth: throwing money into the business, justifying it as an investment for future growth, often leaves you with little to show for it at the end of the year—other than a big tax bill.
Time to Hit Pause and Rewire Your Approach to Money
It’s time to change how you think about money. When a dollar comes in the door, don’t let it slip away. Instead, figure out how to invest it in something that brings in more money—don’t just let it vanish. Trust me, I'm not here to judge. We’re human, and making these adjustments won’t happen overnight, but these three simple steps will set you on the path to better financial habits—and a healthier bank balance.
Tip 1: Buy a Book and Read It!
If you want to understand your relationship with money, you need to read The Psychology of Money. I know, I know, there are a ton of finance books out there, but this one stands out. It explores the emotions, thoughts, and behaviors that influence your financial decisions. Some of us fear money, some are excited by it, and others avoid it completely.
This book helps you tackle those feelings, making it an essential read for any entrepreneur. It’ll cost you less than 20 bucks and is worth every penny—and will likely add several hundred thousand dollars to your financial mindset over time. So, go get it. You won’t regret it.
Tip 2: Book a Ticket and Go!
Let’s face it, we’d all rather be at home with our families or out at our favorite Mexican restaurant sipping margaritas. But let me tell you, getting good at budgeting is the real "sexy" thing when it comes to building wealth. The key to building a real empire is being smart with your money, and the best way to learn how to do that is by investing in some education.
One of the best places to get hands-on financial education is by attending live events hosted by financial experts. Dave Ramsey, for example, offers several live events throughout the year that are packed with practical, actionable advice on money management. Take the time to learn the skills that’ll put you on the road to financial success.
Tip 3: Get a Coach—You Can’t Do It Alone
If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you know that it’s easier when you have a coach. The same goes for managing your business finances. Sure, you can try to teach yourself QuickBooks, but without accountability, you’ll likely end up distracted by other parts of your business—until it’s too late.
Hiring a coach (or working with an outsourced accountant) will keep you on track and help you hit your financial goals. This is not a sales pitch for Ignite Spot (okay, maybe just a little), but having a financial expert by your side is a game-changer. Think of it like a personal trainer who helps you stick to your goals, even when you’d rather grab that bag of Doritos and skip the gym.
So, if you’re ready to make a change, consider working with a financial coach or accountant who can guide you, hold you accountable, and keep you moving in the right direction.
Take Action Today: Let’s Start the Conversation
If you’re tired of the financial rollercoaster and ready to take control of your business's money, let’s chat. At Ignite Spot, we’re here to help you with budgeting, cash flow management, and more. Start by booking a free QuickBooks review to help identify where improvements can be made and how we can get you back on track.
Take the first step toward a more profitable future. Let’s get your financial strategy on point. You’ve got this!