Running a business is exciting, fulfilling, and empowering. But let’s not sugarcoat it: it can also be overwhelming. As an entrepreneur, you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, often wearing too many hats and feeling the pressure to get everything just right. If you’re not careful, this stress can spill over into your personal life and affect your overall well-being.

RedBrick has worked with countless business owners who were overwhelmed by the demands of their growing business. We’ve seen the signs, and helped them find practical, realistic solutions to regain control and reduce stress.

Here are five signs your business finances could be causing you stress, along with practical steps to tackle them.

1. You’re Constantly Thinking About Work (Even During Breaks)

Are you constantly thinking about invoices, payroll, and cash flow, even during your break? If you can’t switch off, it’s a clear sign that stress is starting to build up.  You’re having trouble being present when your family and friends need you because your mind is stuck in the business.

What can you do to hit pause?

• Delegate to experts: Let the experts take the load off. With RedBrick’s Remote FinOps team, we can handle everything from bookkeeping to financial modelling, so you can actually take breaks, enjoy time off, or focus on things which matter more.

• Set clear work boundaries: Create designated work hours so you can find the work/life balance. Try and create a “No Work” zone for your sanity and use it for mindfulness breaks like doing meditation, journalling, or going for a quick walk.

• Automate your processes: Automate time-consuming processes, such as invoicing or payroll, using platforms like Xero or FreeAgent which we can seamlessly integrate into your operations. This will give you more time to be present.

2. Your Sleep Schedule Is All Over the Place

Poor sleep is one of the common symptoms of stress. Ever wake up in the middle of the night, wide awake and thinking about your tax return, compliance issues, or pending invoices? It could be a coincidence, or it could be a sign your stress levels are getting out of hand.

What can you do to finally get some rest?

• Build your support system: Partner with a reliable accounting firm like RedBrick to ensure your compliance needs are met and deadlines are never missed. We’ll handle regulatory updates and filings, giving you peace of mind. This is an extension of your business, giving you expert advice and support when you need it the most.

• Use time management tools: Prioritise tasks, break them into smaller chunks, and schedule them throughout the week. When you know what needs to be done, you’re less likely to lay awake worrying.

• Develop a “brain dump” routine before bed: Write down all that’s bothering you and leave it to your team while you sleep. Wind down your day with relaxing activities, such as reading, stretching, or journaling. Write down everything that’s on your mind and leave it to your team to handle while you sleep soundly.[KS2] 

3. Financial Reports Feel like a Mountain to Climb

If understanding your financial statements feels daunting or makes you anxious, you are not alone. Avoiding those reports might feel like a way to dodge the stress, but it can lead to poor decision-making and missed opportunities in the long run.

What can you do to conquer the climb?

• Work with a trusted financial advisor: If you find the financial reports overwhelming, you may need help interpreting them in a way that’s understandable and actionable for you.  We have helped clients simplify and provide clear, relevant financial reports, enabling them to understand their finances and make business decisions with confidence.

• Simplify your financial system: Leverage cloud-based finance solutions for real-time data and insights that drive your business forward. Our team can support you in the selection and implementation of the right tool for your organisation.

• Schedule regular check-ins: A proactive approach can always help you feel less stressed. Set aside time once a month to review your financials. Breaking the task into smaller, more frequent sessions can make it feel less daunting.

4. Your Team Is Always Asking for Clarification

Do you find yourself answering constant questions from your team? Such as “What is the status of this project?” or “How should we handle this expense?”  If your team is constantly asking you for clarification on processes or priorities, it is a sign that things are not running smoothly in your business, and potentially your life.

What can you do to bring the team into alignment?

• Streamline processes: Simplify business processes through RedBrick’s Digital Transformation Services. We analyse your current system, provide recommendations on how to enhance the areas of highest impact, and automate them for you.

• Encourage open communication: Set clear lines of communication and define the roles within your organisation. Slack, Teams, or Asana can help keep everyone on the same page. Set up a regular catch-up or team meeting to address questions and align everyone on current priorities.

• Offer training sessions: Provide regular training on your processes, tools, and expectations so your team can work more independently and confidently.

5.  The “Solo Superhero” Syndrome

Being an entrepreneur can sometimes get lonely, especially if you happen to be the only decision-maker. And if you are carrying the whole weight of your business on your shoulders, then it is only a matter of time before you burn out.

 What can you do to give the cape a rest?

• Build a network: Seek advice and guidance from an experienced and professional network. At RedBrick we are plugged into multiple professional financial organisations and our Remote Finance Teams act as an extension of your business finances, offering expert advice, practical support and regular knowledge sharing.

• Delegate leadership: Identify key people who can take on more responsibilities, whether it’s leading teams or managing specific functions, so you don’t have to make every decision yourself.

• Join business groups: Join local business networks or industry-specific associations to connect with other entrepreneurs. You’ll realise you’re not alone and gain insights from peers who’ve faced similar challenges. You can share challenges and get feedback which can ease the loneliness.

Conclusion: Take Control Before Stress Takes Over

Stress can be a part of business life, but your business finances need not be a cause of it. The ability to recognise these signs early and introduce effective solutions will help you regain control and improve your mental health while steering your business towards success.

At RedBrick, we’re here to help lighten the load. Whether it is managing your finances or streamlining your processes, our tailored services are designed to help you thrive-not just survive.

We provide a home for your business finances, where you feel secure and relaxed. Let’s work together to create a healthier, more sustainable way to grow your business. Now is the time to reach out to us and take the first step toward stress-free entrepreneurship.