Too many business owners leave their personal lives out of the financial equation. They’re so focused on the business ‘success’ that they never stop to consider where they want to be in relationship to it — now and in the future.

The thing is, we’re not just business owners, we’re people with families, retirement goals, and a host of other responsibilities.

You can’t separate yourself, your life, and your future from your business.

If you’re not looking at where your family income needs to be now and in the future if you’re not considering what you want your relationship to your business to be in the next 5–10 years, if you’re not PAYING YOURSELF then you’re walking a dangerous line that might not go the way you want it to. 
​
When I start talking with business owners about their long-term goals I always ask how well they pay themselves, and you’d be shocked to know how many are barely paying themselves.

Fewer still intentionally take profit dividends from the company.

Believing that if you work hard and sacrifice you’ll get a big payout someday in the future is NOT A PLAN. For most entrepreneurs, it’s a fairytale.

Let’s be real. If you’re not paying yourself enough to support a comfortable lifestyle, family, and future then you’re not going to be happy or thriving in your business. By the time you (and your family) start to resent your business, you’ll be running short on options.

Funding your family needs first should be a top priority for every business owner.

To set realistic business goals you also have to be real about your family economy and how much you need in cash, savings, and retirement funds.

You cannot separate your personal needs from your business goals.

If you’re a business owner and you’re not satisfied with your take-home pay, it’s time to integrate your personal financial needs, your future needs, and your business financial strategy.

To make a solid plan for yourself, your business, your family, and your future Subscribe to Speed Notes

Ready to Get a Handle on Your Small Business Finances & Start Creating Meaningful Money?

Twice each month, you’ll receive a newsletter with solid tips and tools for growth-oriented business owners who use numbers and values to drive decisions. You’ll receive resources like:

• 10 tips you need to improve cyber-security for your business

• How to choose the right bank, investor, or partner for your business — without sacrificing your social impact/social justice priorities

• How and why to produce a Social Impact report along with your financials

“If you care about both profit and social impact, this is the newsletter you need.”