This is refreshingly real! Most solo founders (myself included) don’t really “get religion” about the numbers until they’re on the edge of a cash crunch—or panicking over taxes. It’s so easy to fall into the “hope it works out” trap.
Honestly, what’s one financial blind spot you wish you’d caught earlier? Was it overhiring, a sneaky subscription, or thinking every dollar in the bank was spendable? For me, the biggest shock was how fast cash evaporates when you’re not watching—especially when a client pays late or an annual bill hits out of nowhere.
If you could give ONE piece of money advice to a brand new solo founder (or your younger self), what would it be? Or…what’s the worst financial mistake you’ve ever made in your business?
Would love to hear some horror stories (and maybe some survival tips) from others—let’s help each other out!
Thank you very much for your comment! That’s a great question. For me, the biggest lesson was understanding the difference between profit and cash. I used to think that being profitable meant I was in good shape… until I hit a moment where the numbers looked fine on paper, but the bank account told a very different story. That gap between when you earn money and when you receive it can be brutal if you’re not watching closely.
If I could give one piece of advice to a new founder, it would be: track your cash flow like your business depends on it, because it does.
Very interesting article. Other than Google sheets, is there any ai tool you would recommend for keeping track of this, reviewing the spreadsheet, asking deeper questions?
Thanks! In the early stages, I’d actually recommend keeping it simple with Excel or Google Sheets. It helps you really understand the numbers before adding more complex AI tools.
Great piece to read over and over again. Cash is king but it is often overlooked, especially when you focus on profits. Thank you so much for putting this article together. I have found that one of the biggest mistakes (especially for solopreneurs) is focusing on tasks that don't generate SALES or INCOME. Did you ever experience something similar?
Thanks, Dennis! I completely agree. And yes, I’ve definitely caught myself spending way too much time on things that didn’t move the needle financially, like creating the perfect design for a web page or watching productivity videos instead of doing the actual work…
Just a few thoughts: Create a “revenue first” filter for your to-do list. Before starting anything, ask: Will this help bring in sales or income soon? If not, delegate, delay, or drop it. Block daily time for lead generation, closing deals, or serving paying clients, and review weekly to ensure most hours go to income-generating work.
I am admittedly bad at tracking my finances. Every little help is welcome. Thanks for the tips 🥰
Thank you very much, Kelly. Happy to support!
This is refreshingly real! Most solo founders (myself included) don’t really “get religion” about the numbers until they’re on the edge of a cash crunch—or panicking over taxes. It’s so easy to fall into the “hope it works out” trap.
Honestly, what’s one financial blind spot you wish you’d caught earlier? Was it overhiring, a sneaky subscription, or thinking every dollar in the bank was spendable? For me, the biggest shock was how fast cash evaporates when you’re not watching—especially when a client pays late or an annual bill hits out of nowhere.
If you could give ONE piece of money advice to a brand new solo founder (or your younger self), what would it be? Or…what’s the worst financial mistake you’ve ever made in your business?
Would love to hear some horror stories (and maybe some survival tips) from others—let’s help each other out!
Thank you very much for your comment! That’s a great question. For me, the biggest lesson was understanding the difference between profit and cash. I used to think that being profitable meant I was in good shape… until I hit a moment where the numbers looked fine on paper, but the bank account told a very different story. That gap between when you earn money and when you receive it can be brutal if you’re not watching closely.
If I could give one piece of advice to a new founder, it would be: track your cash flow like your business depends on it, because it does.
Very interesting article. Other than Google sheets, is there any ai tool you would recommend for keeping track of this, reviewing the spreadsheet, asking deeper questions?
Thanks! In the early stages, I’d actually recommend keeping it simple with Excel or Google Sheets. It helps you really understand the numbers before adding more complex AI tools.
Solid reminder that financial clarity isn’t about spreadsheets, but about making decisions you won’t regret later.
Your content is gold, keep it coming!
Thank you very much for the positive feedback, Alan. Glad to hear that!
Great piece to read over and over again. Cash is king but it is often overlooked, especially when you focus on profits. Thank you so much for putting this article together. I have found that one of the biggest mistakes (especially for solopreneurs) is focusing on tasks that don't generate SALES or INCOME. Did you ever experience something similar?
Thanks, Dennis! I completely agree. And yes, I’ve definitely caught myself spending way too much time on things that didn’t move the needle financially, like creating the perfect design for a web page or watching productivity videos instead of doing the actual work…
Thank you for sharing. Any suggestions on how to regain focus on the things that matter?
Just a few thoughts: Create a “revenue first” filter for your to-do list. Before starting anything, ask: Will this help bring in sales or income soon? If not, delegate, delay, or drop it. Block daily time for lead generation, closing deals, or serving paying clients, and review weekly to ensure most hours go to income-generating work.
Lovely, thank you so much. This is great advice and I am sure it will help me and many others. Have an amazing day and Make | Things | Happen