Welcome to the Ruck & Reconcile Blog!
This is where I share simple, straight-to-the-point bookkeeping tips for small, service-based business owners — especially folks in cleaning, home services, and other hands-on trades.
Whether you’re trying to make sense of your numbers, prep for tax time, or just want to stop dreading your books — you’re in the right place.
You’re Not “Bad with Money” You Just Need a System
Let’s stop the shame and start with a strategy.
If you’ve ever caught yourself saying,
“I’m just bad with money…”
You’re not alone.
In fact, most small business owners didn’t start their business because they love numbers. You started because you’re great at what you do, whether that’s cleaning homes, fixing roofs, or running your own service-based side hustle.
But the truth is:
You’re not bad with money.
You just don’t have a system (yet).
The Problem Isn’t You… It’s the Chaos
When your business income is inconsistent, your expenses are all over the place, and you have no idea what’s coming in or going out…
Of course it feels overwhelming.
Of course it feels like you’re “bad” at it.
That’s not a money problem that’s just a lack of structure.
What a Simple System Can Do for You
Once you put a clear system in place, something magical happens:
You stop guessing
You stop stressing
You start seeing the real numbers
You start making better decisions
And it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Here’s What That System Might Look Like
1. Separate your business and personal finances
No more swiping the business card at Walmart for groceries.
Open a dedicated business account so your income and expenses are clean and clear.
2. Track your income and expenses weekly
Use QuickBooks Online or even a simple spreadsheet.
Just write down what came in, what went out, and what it was for.
Consistency > perfection.
3. Set aside money for taxes and profit
A simple rule: Save 25–30% of your profit for taxes and put into a separate (ideally high yield) savings account.
4. Review your numbers monthly
Look at your Profit & Loss statement. Ask:
Did I make a profit?
What did I spend the most on?
Are my prices covering my costs?
You don’t need an MBA, you just need visibility.
5. Ask for help when you need it
If your books are a mess or you’ve fallen behind, get support.
Hiring a bookkeeper is not a luxury, it’s a power move.
Let’s Rethink the Narrative
Saying “I’m bad with money” is like a client saying “I’m bad at cleaning” or “I’m bad with tools.”
Of course they are, that’s why they hire you.
You don’t have to be an expert in finances.
You just need a system, support, and the confidence to look at your numbers.
Final Thoughts
You started your business to take control of your time, your income, and your future.
Let’s not let messy finances hold you back.
Instead of avoiding your numbers, let’s use them to help you run your business!
Need help setting up a system that actually works for your business?
I offer a free Bookkeeping Health Check with no pressure, just clarity.
Contact us by click here
or send us an email at David@RuckandReconcile.com
Check out our services here
Learn more about Ruck and Reconcile here
And as always, thanks for reading and we’ll see you next week!