Goal setting is a critical part of building a successful business, yet many bookkeepers struggle to embrace it. Whether it’s fear of failure, lack of clarity, or simply being too busy with day-to-day tasks, avoiding goal setting can hinder growth and progress.
Debbie Roberts, co-founder of Pure Bookkeeping, shared her tried-and-tested approach to goal setting. From starting her business as a sole trader to scaling it into a thriving enterprise, her journey highlights the impact of having a clear plan.x
Goal setting often feels daunting because it requires introspection, commitment, and accountability. Many bookkeepers prefer to keep their ambitions vague, saying things like "I want to grow my business" without defining specific targets. This approach stems from a fear of failure—if goals aren’t set, there’s no risk of falling short.
However, this mindset can be limiting. Without clear goals, it’s easy to drift aimlessly, wasting time and missing opportunities to grow. Goal setting is not about perfection; it’s about creating a roadmap to guide your actions and decisions.
Debbie’s approach to goal setting is systematic and designed to deliver results. Here’s how you can implement a similar strategy in your bookkeeping business:
1. Reflect on the PastStart by evaluating your previous performance. Look at what worked, what didn’t, and why. For instance, if you didn’t meet your marketing targets, consider the reasons—were you avoiding certain tasks, or were there external obstacles? Identifying these patterns helps you address them moving forward.
Vague aspirations like “grow my business” don’t provide direction. Instead, set specific, measurable goals. For example, determine how many clients you want to onboard or the revenue you aim to achieve within a set timeframe.
Break these down further into monthly, weekly, and even daily actions. For instance, if your annual revenue goal is $100,000, calculate how many billable hours or clients you’ll need to reach that target.
Accountability is a powerful motivator. Share your goals with someone who can help keep you on track, such as a coach, mentor, or business partner. Regular check-ins with this person can provide the encouragement and perspective needed to stay focused.
If hiring a coach isn’t feasible, consider pairing up with a trusted colleague or friend. Having someone to review your progress and provide feedback can make a significant difference.
Consistently measure your progress using key performance indicators (KPIs). Track metrics such as revenue, client growth, and marketing efforts. Regularly reviewing these KPIs allows you to adjust your strategy as needed and stay aligned with your goals.
If you’re just starting, begin with attainable goals. For instance, your first target might be replacing your current income if you’re transitioning from employment to running your own business. As you gain confidence and momentum, you can expand your ambitions to include larger goals, such as hiring staff or reaching higher revenue milestones.
Goal setting provides clarity, direction, and a sense of purpose. Even if you don’t achieve every target, the process pushes you to accomplish more than you might without a plan. It allows you to take control of your business’s trajectory, making it easier to identify opportunities and overcome obstacles.
By setting clear goals and committing to regular reviews, you can ensure your business is moving steadily toward success.
Ready to begin? Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:
- Reflect on your past year to identify successes and challenges.
- Define specific goals for the next 12 months, three years, and five years.
- Break these goals into actionable monthly and weekly tasks.
- Partner with someone who can hold you accountable.
- Track your progress regularly and adjust your strategy as needed.
Goal setting is an essential practice for any bookkeeper who wants to grow their business. By creating a roadmap and holding yourself accountable, you can turn your ambitions into achievable milestones.
The key is to start small, stay consistent, and remain adaptable. With time and effort, your goals will become the foundation for long-term success.
What’s the first goal you’re setting for your bookkeeping business? Take the first step today and watch your business flourish!
For more great content, check out The Successful Bookkeeper Podcast!
