Accounting: A Skillset That Puts You in Control
Accounting is one of those careers where the employer needs you more than you need them. Businesses don’t run without accountants. Firms can’t function without talent. So why not take that skill and build something for yourself?
That’s exactly what I did.
For years, I worked hard, solving problems, driving results, and making other people money. Until I finally asked myself:
What’s stopping me from doing it for myself?
So, I took the leap. I stepped into entrepreneurship, bringing my accounting expertise with me. Some weeks, I feel unstoppable. Other weeks, I’m staring at my numbers like I just turned on an American news channel—questioning everything and half-expecting the apocalypse.
But here’s the thing… being an accountant has already taught me how growth works.
Businesses don’t scale overnight. They grow through small, steady improvements—tightening cash flow, optimizing margins, and making strategic decisions. It’s the same with entrepreneurship. If I show up every day, just 1% better than yesterday, the compounding effect takes care of the rest.
The Rollercoaster of Business Ownership
If you’re a business owner, you get it. Some weeks are smooth. Others feel like a free fall. The market shifts, unexpected expenses pop up, and clients can be unpredictable. But the ones who succeed? They keep showing up.
The key to keeping your business moving forward when things get tough isn’t magic—it’s discipline, strategy, and mindset.
1. Master Cash Flow
Cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. You can have an amazing product or service, but if your cash flow is a mess, your business will struggle. As an accountant, I learned early on that positive cash flow isn’t just about making money—it’s about managing it. Here’s how:
Get Clear on Your Numbers: Know exactly what’s coming in and going out.
Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Every dollar saved is a dollar reinvested.
Invoice Like a Pro: Late payments kill businesses. Set clear terms and follow up.
Plan for Dry Spells: Build a cash reserve so slow months don’t derail you.
2. Adapt, Don’t Panic
Every business faces rough patches. The key isn’t avoiding them (because you can’t), but adjusting when they hit.
Look at the Data: Instead of reacting emotionally, analyze the numbers. Where can you pivot? Where can you improve efficiency?
Adjust Your Strategy: If something isn’t working, change it. Pricing, marketing, operations—everything is on the table.
Seek Guidance: Find a mentor, a mastermind group, or a coach. Fresh perspectives can save you from making costly mistakes.
3. Keep Showing Up
Some days, motivation will be low. The doubt will creep in. But growth isn’t about giant leaps—it’s about showing up, even when you don’t feel like it.
Consistency Beats Talent: Small, daily actions build momentum over time.
Celebrate Small Wins: Every invoice paid, every new client, every efficiency gained is progress.
Remember Your ‘Why’: You didn’t start this for an easy ride. You started it for freedom, control, and a life on your terms.
Your Skillset is Your Superpower
As accountants, we’re trained to see what others don’t. We understand numbers, strategy, and how businesses grow. That’s an incredible advantage in entrepreneurship.
So if you’re on the fence about going out on your own, ask yourself: What’s stopping me?
And if you’re already on the journey, remember: the toughest days are the ones that shape you the most.
Keep showing up. Keep improving. Success is just the compounding effect of smart, daily decisions.
Let’s build something great—on our terms.
