If you’ve ever felt guilty for taking profits from your business, you’re not alone. Many owners wrestle with the idea that enjoying the financial rewards of their hard work somehow takes away from their team. But the truth is if you’ve built a successful business, you’ve earned those rewards.
There’s nothing stopping an employee from setting up their own business, taking the same risks you have, and managing the same stresses. If you’ve taken your company from a small back bedroom to a thriving team of 20, with a turnover you once could only dream about, you’ve earned the right to enjoy the benefits of that growth.
Profit isn’t something to feel guilty about as it’s a direct result of the risks, decisions, and sacrifices you’ve made. Surplus profits should rightfully go to the owners who carry the responsibility for the business’s success and survival.
If you’re a business owner who feels bad for taking time off or enjoying the rewards of your hard work, it’s time to think again.
Running a business takes a unique mix of skills: leadership, resilience, and the ability to use the right resources in the right way. Not everyone is cut out for that role. For those who are, it’s vital to recognise that stepping back doesn’t mean you’re letting your team down.
Some owners hesitate to step away because they worry it might be seen as neglecting the team’s efforts. But ask yourself how many team members are regularly up at midnight worrying about the future of the business? Probably very few. As the business owner, that responsibility falls on you, and it’s okay to take a break when you need it.
A strong, positive culture removes resentment and replaces it with collaboration. Within Carthy Accountants, for example, transparency is a cornerstone, and every team member can see the figures and understand the business’s goals.
There’s a big difference between a closed business owner and one who’s open and honest. When your team understands the company’s vision, sees you working alongside them, and knows you’ve built something solid, they’re far more likely to support you taking time away or enjoying the profits you’ve earned.
Ultimately, the success of your business depends on both your leadership and your culture. Build them right, and you’ll be able to step away without guilt, confident that your business will continue to thrive.
At Carthy Accountants, we believe business owners should be free to enjoy the rewards of their hard work and build cultures that support growth. If you’re ready to create a business that works for you and not the other way around, get in touch today.