Welcome, my friend, to a journey of renewal and clarity in the world of business finance. In this first chapter, let’s imagine you’re sitting at your desk, sunlight warming your face, a fresh cup of coffee in hand. You’ve worked hard, but every month ends with the same question: where did all the money go? This is the silent struggle of so many entrepreneurs, both seasoned and new.
For decades, we’ve been taught to use a simple formula: Sales minus Expenses equals Profit. It sounds logical, but in practice, profit becomes what’s left—if anything—after the bills are paid. This is why so many businesses, even those that appear successful from the outside, are one bad month away from disaster.
But what if we could flip this formula? What if, instead, we said: Sales minus Profit equals Expenses? Suddenly, profit is not a wish or an afterthought. It becomes a priority, a non-negotiable part of every transaction. This is the Profit First mindset.
Think about the power of habits. Just as brushing your teeth keeps your smile bright, making profit a habit ensures your business stays healthy. It’s not about waiting for a windfall or a big sale. It’s about building a routine—every deposit, every time.
There’s a story of a business owner who, after years of struggle, reached a breaking point. In a moment of despair, his young daughter offered him her piggy bank, believing they could make it together. This simple gesture became a turning point, a reminder that security comes from consistent, small actions, not grand gestures.
As you reflect on your own journey, remember: profit is not a stroke of luck or a distant goal—it’s a choice you make, every day. Let’s explore how this simple shift can transform not just your business, but your peace of mind.
Next, we’ll look at the surprising ways human behavior shapes our financial decisions—and how you can turn these tendencies into your greatest asset.
