Why Knowing Your Business Numbers Is So Fucking Important as September Rolls In
As September rolls in, there’s one thing I can’t stress enough: you need to know your f*cking business numbers. This isn’t just a bookkeeping mantra I chant to stay motivated. It’s a fundamental part of running a successful business. If you don’t know where your money is coming from, where it’s going, and how it stacks up against last year, you’re flying blind. And trust me, that’s a recipe for disaster—especially with tax season looming.
September: The Perfect Time for a Year-To-Date Reality Check
September is the sweet spot for doing a deep dive into your year-to-date numbers. As a bookkeeper, this is the time I like to pull out the big guns and compare how my clients are doing this year versus last year. Why? Because these comparisons give me—and you—a clear picture of whether your business is on track, falling behind, or (hopefully) kicking ass.
Are your sales up? Great—let’s figure out why and double down. Are they down? Then it’s time to dig into the reasons. Is it a one-time hiccup, or are there bigger issues at play? Knowing this information now, rather than later, allows you to pivot and make informed decisions that could save your business from a rough end to the year.
Informed Recommendations: No Guesswork, Just Facts
Year-to-date comparisons aren’t just about giving you a pat on the back or a kick in the ass. They’re the foundation for making solid, actionable recommendations that drive strategic decisions and keep your business on the right track. Whether I’m advising my clients to tighten their belts, invest in growth, or stay the course, these decisions are rooted in hard data—not gut feelings.
For example, if your expenses are trending higher this year compared to last year without a corresponding increase in revenue, it’s time to figure out why. Maybe you’re overspending on something that isn’t bringing in returns, or maybe you’ve got a cash flow issue starting to surface. Whatever it is, knowing your numbers allows us to nip problems in the bud before they turn into a full-blown crisis.
Tax Planning: No One Likes a Surprise in March
Let’s talk about something we all despise: tax season surprises. March and April are notorious for blindsiding business owners with unexpected tax bills that feel like a punch in the gut. But here’s the thing: those surprises don't happen if you’re on top of your numbers year-round.
By September, you should have a solid grasp of your tax situation. Are you on track with your estimated tax payments? Should you be setting aside more to avoid a nasty surprise? Or, have you been too cautious and are overpaying? Understanding your current status lets you have a productive conversation with your CPA and adjust your tax strategy as needed.
Tax planning isn’t just about avoiding penalties or interest; it’s about ensuring your money is working for you, not against you. Knowing your numbers now allows you to strategize and, if necessary, take action before the year is out.
No More Guessing: It’s All About Control
Ultimately, knowing your business numbers isn’t just about staying out of trouble with the IRS or impressing your accountant. It’s about taking control. By knowing your numbers you become the master of your own f*cking destiny. You’re no longer reacting to problems as they arise—you’re anticipating them. You’re making decisions from a position of confidence, not fear.
And let’s be real: it feels pretty damn good to walk into a meeting with your CPA or your team and know exactly what the fuck is going on with your business. It’s empowering, it’s smart, and it’s how you stay ahead of the game.
Bottom Line: September Is Your Wake-Up Call
If you’ve been coasting through the year without a clear understanding of your business’s financials, let September be your wake-up call. Don’t wait until the end of the year to scramble through a stack of receipts and hope for the best. Now is the moment to dig into those year-to-date numbers, and get a grip on your financial situation.
Understanding your business numbers isn’t a suggestion—it’s essential. It’s the difference between running your business like a well-oiled machine and constantly putting out fires. It’s the key to avoiding a tax shock in April and ensuring a stress-free tax season. Most importantly, it’s what distinguishes success from failure.
So, take the time this September to do a deep dive into your finances. Your future self—and your bank account will thank you.
Ready to get a handle on your numbers? Let's make it happen. We’re here to help you be the kick-ass business owner you’re meant to be.
