Create Processes that Protect Your Boundaries & Sanity

Mar 28, 2023

At a recent workshop I ran for small business owners, we were talking about techniques and tools to help manage the expectation we often put on ourselves to 'do it all'.

Yes - This is a trap that a lot of business owners fall into, particularly bookkeepers - taking on too much all at once, not knowing when or how to let things go, and not knowing how to introduce processes that protect our boundaries (and sanity).

One tool that I like to use is ESAD. For every process, person (clients, team, suppliers etc), or task that I'm experiencing an issue with, I consider if I can (in order)...

Eliminate - can it/they be removed entirely? If so, how can I do this? If not, move on to the next step.
Simplify - can it/they be made easier, or more efficient? If so, how can I do this? If not, move on to the next step.
Automate- can it/they be automated or integrated? If so, how can I do this? If not, move on to the next step.
Delegate- can it/they be delegated/outsourced to someone else (internal or external)? If so, how can I do this?

ESAD provides a really simply framework to work through barriers, challenges or every day processes to ensure that they are as effective and efficient as possible.

Once you become comfortable using this process, it almost becomes automatic and you can start applying it to all facets of your business (and life!).

What could you eliminate, simplify, automate or delegate to make your life a little easier at the moment (yes - house work counts!)?

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Karen Whitely

Founder, Right Click Business Consulting

"I am so grateful for everything you do for the Academy members Martine.

I've been implementing the fixed prices and proposals strategy over the past few months and what a difference that's made to my business (and my mental health!). The fixed pricing and proposals learnings got me out of a few less than desirable situations and helped me put really strong processes in place to ensure I only take on clients that were the right fit for my business.

I can only say how amazing it's been cutting a lot of the dead wood. I've taken on some lovely new clients who have engaged my services since implementing the proposals etc - many have chosen a higher level than I would have expected. My existing clients have also surprised the heck of me! Some of those have also chosen a higher level than I expected.

I'm no longer chasing money, I know what my revenue is going to be each month and the sense of control over my business is indescribable. The pressure is off beyond what I could have ever expected. I know for a lot of people it's uncomfortable going through this process, but if I could only bottle the level of confidence this has given me and show them what it feels like to have the weight taken off, I'd do so in a heartbeat.

Thank you so much for everything you do for your members Martine. The value you bring is absolutely priceless!"

Chrissie Smith

Founder, Chrissie Smith Bookkeeping

"Thank you again Martine. Everyone in our industry needs to jump on the band wagon of this pricing method!

Lots of knowledge bombs, especially on how to have those value add discussions with existing clients. It was like a beacon going off in my head.

I've finally realised that my clients are happy to pay for my knowledge, not just my time.

I think I just needed that support and I have definitely found it in you & Bookwiz Academy!

Thanks for helping me take these steps. So much clarity, it feels really good."

Brooke Arnott

CEO, The Small Business Lounge

"I have been working with Martine for a number of years now to assist with the growth of The Small Business Lounge.

Having her as my mentor and sounding board has definitely assisted me with achieving my goals at each stage of our business growth.

I would highly recommend Martine and her Academy to any bookkeeper or accounting firm."

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Hi! I'm Martine Hoosen

Welcome to Bookwiz Academy, where I share over 23 years of a multi-award winning bookkeeping, business ownership & mentoring experience with you!

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