Let’s face it—numbers can be scary. If you’ve ever stared blankly at a spreadsheet, broken out in a cold sweat during tax season, or felt your brain switch off the moment someone mentions “reconciling accounts,” you’re not alone.
But here’s the truth: you don’t have to be a math genius or love finance to understand your business numbers. Bookkeeping is simply the language of your business. And like any language, you can learn it—step by step, at your own pace.
Why Does Bookkeeping Feel So Intimidating?
For many small business owners, especially creatives, makers, coaches, and service providers, bookkeeping feels like a foreign land. Common fears include:
- “I’m just not a numbers person.”
- “I’ll mess it up and get in trouble with the ATO.”
- “It’s too boring/complicated/confusing.”
These fears often come from early experiences—school math anxiety, confusing tax talk, or even just the idea that finances are best left to “experts.”
But here’s a reframe: bookkeeping isn’t about getting everything perfect. Accuracy matters, absolutely. However, bookkeeping in your business is primarily about understanding your business finances so you can make confident and well-informed decisions.
You Already Know More Than You Think
You budget for groceries. You know when a friend owes you money. You keep receipts when you travel. Guess what? That’s the real-life version of bookkeeping!
The key is to take those skills and apply them to your business in a simple, structured way.
Tips to Start Feeling More Confident with Bookkeeping
- Start small.
Don’t try to learn everything at once. Begin with something simple, like tracking your income for the month or organising your receipts.
- Use plain English.
Forget the jargon. Think “money in” and “money out.” That’s the heart of bookkeeping.
- Pick a system that works for you.
Whether it’s software, spreadsheets, or pen and paper, the best system is the one you’ll actually use.
- Get support.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. There are friendly bookkeepers (hi!) and communities designed specifically for non-financially minded business owners.
- Remind yourself why it matters.
Bookkeeping isn’t just about numbers—it’s about clarity. Confidence. Growth. It’s about knowing if your business is actually making money, and where you could be earning more or saving more.
You Are Capable of Doing This
You built a business from the ground up. You manage clients, market your services, juggle a million tasks. Compared to that? Bookkeeping is just one more skill you can totally learn.
Take a breath. You’re not behind. You’re not bad with money. You’re just learning something new—and that’s brave.
Need help getting started?
I created a low-cost membership just for small business owners like you—people who want to stay in control of their books without drowning in financial jargon. We meet monthly on Zoom, I answer your questions, and we get it done together. No shame, no fluff, just support.
Let me know if you want the details—I’d love to help you ditch the fear and take charge of your numbers!
