10 Things I Wish I Knew About Business Finances Before Starting My Company

What I Wish I Knew About Business Finances When I Started

If I could sit across from the version of me who started Focus & Conquer, I wouldn’t give her a detailed financial spreadsheet or a lecture on taxes. I’d pour her a coffee, take a deep breath, and say: “There are some things you’re going to learn the hard way—but let me give you a head start.”

Because the truth is, most of us don’t start our businesses with a financial strategy. We start with passion. A calling. A creative itch we can no longer ignore. And somewhere along the way, we realize that without a financial foundation, even the most beautiful ideas can crumble.

In this post, I’m sharing the financial truths I wish someone had whispered to me in those first few messy months. My hope? That they help you move faster, steadier, and with more peace.

1. Revenue is not profit (and that gap matters).

Just because your Stripe says $3,000 doesn’t mean you made $3,000. Between taxes, tools, payment processing fees, and investments, your actual profit can look very different.

What I wish I knew: track what you keep, not just what you make.

2. You don’t need to earn more. You need to keep more.

It’s easy to think the solution is always "make more money." But often, we’re already making enough—we’re just not managing it well.

Look for leaks. Simplify. Be intentional.

What I wish I knew: profitability isn’t a milestone, it’s a habit.

3. Separate your business and personal finances (immediately).

Even if you’re just starting out, open a separate account. It’s not about being fancy—it’s about clarity.

What I wish I knew: blurry money creates blurry decisions.

4. Automate your savings and taxes.

Don’t wait to "see what’s left." Move 20–30% into a separate account the moment you get paid. You’ll thank yourself later.

What I wish I knew: preparation is peace.

5. Track your numbers weekly, even if they scare you.

Avoidance creates anxiety. A weekly check-in builds resilience. Over time, it becomes empowering.

What I wish I knew: the numbers aren’t judging you—they’re guiding you.

6. It’s okay to start simple.

You don’t need fancy accounting software or a CFO. You just need a system you understand.

What I wish I knew: simple is sustainable.

7. Your prices reflect your beliefs.

If you’re undercharging, it’s rarely a pricing issue. It’s a confidence issue. And it’s okay. Pricing grows as you do.

What I wish I knew: numbers and mindset are deeply connected.

8. Money will trigger emotions you didn’t expect.

Shame. Guilt. Pride. Fear. Excitement. You’ll feel all of it. The key is not to resist it—but to witness it, journal it, and grow from it.

What I wish I knew: emotional regulation is a financial skill.

9. Your energy is a financial resource.

If something drains you, it costs more than it pays. Protect your time. Delegate. Rest.

What I wish I knew: if it costs your peace, it’s too expensive.

10. You don’t have to do this alone.

Find community. Ask questions. Share what you're learning. Financial empowerment is a team sport.

What I wish I knew: shame thrives in silence—but so does courage.

If You’re Just Starting Out…

Breathe. You’re not behind. You’re building. Every choice you make to understand, manage, and care for your money is a win.

And if you want help getting started, I created a free Financial Starter Kit with simple templates to help you:

• Track your income & expenses

• Create a sustainable budget

• Run a money check-in each week

• Feel calm and clear, not confused

👉 Download your free Financial Starter Kit here

With clarity and kindness,
Focus & Conquer