How to Do Your Own Bookkeeping (Without the Overwhelm): A Simple Start for Small Business Owners
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Let’s Talk About What You’ve Been Avoiding
If you’ve ever opened your bank account and wondered, “Wait… where did all the money go?”
Don’t worry, you’re not alone.
Most small business owners don’t start with a degree in finance. You started with passion and big goals. And now.. receipts. So. Many. Receipts.
Let me assure you: Bookkeeping doesn’t have to be hard. You just need a system that’s built for you. Simple. Clear. No stress.
What Bookkeeping Really Is.
Bookkeeping is the process of keeping track of what’s coming in, what’s going out and what you’re keeping.
It’s not about being perfect or turning into an accountant, it’s about knowing your numbers so you can make confident decisions in your business.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Income = what you’re earning (sales, payments, services)
Expenses = what you’re spending (software, supplies, shipping, etc.)
Profit = what’s left after expenses
It’s the foundation of everything:
Paying yourself
Making smart business decisions
Savings for taxes
And yes, staying out of trouble with the IRS
Bookkeeping is how you stop guessing and start knowing what’s really going on financially.
Why Most Business Owners Avoid It Like The Plague
Let’s be real:
It feels intimidating
It sounds complication
It gets buried under “more urgent” tasks
But here’s the truth: having a system saves you time, money and emotional energy.
The best part?
You don’t need expensive software, you just need to stay consistent.
What You Actually Need to Get Started
If the idea of setting up a bookkeeping system makes you want to run. STAY WITH ME. You truly don’t have to overcomplicate this.
Here’s what you need:
A separate business bank account
If you have an LLC, S-Corp or any legal entity, this is a must for legal reasons. Even if you don’t it’ll make your life so much easier.
A simply way to track your income and expenses weekly
A spreadsheet, tool, or system that helps you see the full picture.
That’s it. No subscriptions. No complicated dashboards.
That’s exactly why I created the Simply Financial Spreadsheet. It’s an easy-to-use spreadsheet designed to help get organized, track your numbers and finally feel in control of your business finances.
And if you’re craving more structure, clarity or just someone in your corner, business coaching might be the next step.
So, What You Should be Doing.. and When?
Here is a light schedule that works even if you’ve got a full plate
Weekly (15 - 30 min)
Enter income and expenses into your spreadsheet
Save digital copies of receipts or invoices
Categorize your expenses (marketing, supplies, shipping, etc.)
Check your bank account and credit card for any surprise charges
Monthly (30 - 45 min)
Reconcile your accounts (don’t worry! I’ll explain)
Review your profit and loss
Look at what’s trending: are you earning more? Spending more?
Set aside money for taxes & savings
Wait… What is Reconciliation?
Pro Tip: It’s one of the most important steps in bookkeeping.
Reconciling means comparing what you entered into your spreadsheet with what actually cleared the bank or credit card. You’re making sure nothing is missed, duplicated or incorrect.
It’s the final piece to the puzzle.
Why it matters:
It helps you to catch errors (like double charges or missed payments)
It keeps reports accurate
It saves you from chaos at tax time
And YES reconciliation is built into my spreadsheet. All the formulas are done for you. You just plug in your numbers and match them up. No stress. No Guesswork.
Whew! That was a lot information. (hopefully helpful)
Ready for more support?
If you want more than just a spreadsheet, if you’re craving structure, strategy, and someone who actually gets what it’s like to run a business while managing real life. I’ve got you.
I offer 1:1 coaching for women growing a business while juggling everything else.
Because sometimes, you don’t need another course, you just need someone in your corner.
*** This post is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, financial or tax advice. Please consult a licenses professional for personalized guidance related to your business.**
