The Truth Behind My Journey to Profit First Success. (And 3 Cash Flow Lessons You Can’t Afford to Ignore)

Ever looked at another business owner and thought, “Wow, they’ve got it all together”?

Yeah, me too. But let me tell you – that’s not the full story.

When I started my business over a decade ago, I had a dream:

To create a business that gave me freedom, flexibility, and the ability to make a difference (fun fact: I build wells in underdeveloped countries because financial freedom should lead to life freedom for everyone, right?).

But what most people don’t know is that I was terrified of ending up like my parents, who ran their own business and struggled constantly with cash flow.

I saw what financial stress did to a family.

I knew I needed a different approach.

That’s when I found Profit First and it changed everything.

Today, I’ve not only built a thriving business using these principles, but I’ve also helped hundreds of business owners finally feel in control of their money (and pay themselves what they deserve).

But it wasn’t always smooth sailing – and there are 3 cash flow lessons I wish I’d known earlier:

1. Your Revenue Means Nothing If You’re Not Paying Yourself

I know, ouch. But it’s true.

I’ve worked with businesses making millions… while the owner was secretly taking home less than their employees.

Profit First flips the script.

You pay yourself FIRST.

Always.

If you’re constantly telling yourself, “I’ll pay myself when there’s money left over,”

There will never be money left over.

2. Your Bank Balance Is Lying to You

Ever felt that heart attack when you see your bank balance drop?

Or the opposite – that rush of excitement when there’s a nice fat number sitting there?

Both are dangerous.

Your bank balance doesn’t show you your profit.

It doesn’t show you your tax obligations.

It doesn’t show you the money you need to grow your business.

That’s why I teach Intentional Accounts.

You need separate accounts for different purposes – one for profit, one for taxes, one for your pay – so you can see your business health at a glance.

It’s like putting on glasses after squinting your whole life.

Suddenly, everything is crystal clear.

3. You’ll Never “Feel Ready” to Take Control – Do It Anyway

When I first started helping business owners, I noticed a pattern.

They’d say:

• “When I hit $500k, I’ll focus on profit.”

• “I just need to hire one more person, then I’ll get organised.”

• “Next year, things will be different.”

But waiting is the biggest trap.

The businesses that thrive?

They start now—even if it’s messy.

Because profit isn’t a future event.

It’s a habit.

So, What’s Your Next Step?

If any part of this hits home, maybe it’s time to take a different approach to your finances.

No jargon. No judgement. Just clarity.

If you’re ready to stop stressing and start thriving, schedule a call:

https://calendly.com/najma/15-minute-cash-flow-clarity-call