This week I had my regular quarterly planning session with my like-minded peers (read: my “bookie friends”). Honestly, every time I walk away from one of these sessions, my cup is full to the brim.
We’ve been meeting like this for about three years now, and it’s one of the best things I do for my business. Working solo can sometimes feel a little isolating, but these sessions are my reset button. They get me out of the day-to-day firefighting and give me space to really think about the bigger picture—where I want my little business to go and how I’m going to get it there.
It’s never competitive. We bounce ideas around, share our war stories (some hilarious, some horrifying), compare processes, and map out our goals. And the best part? We hold each other accountable. That accountability is gold.
This week, of course, we also debriefed all the things we learned at Xerocon (and there was A LOT!). But it got me thinking—what do other small business owners do for support?
Tradies, for example, have their Friday arvo pub catch-ups, where they share ideas (and sometimes those interesting tax avoidance strategies we later have to unpick). As advisors, we’re often the sounding board for our small business clients, keeping them on track and holding them accountable. But what about other bookkeeping practice owners?
Between 60–70% of our industry are solo practitioners. Are they out there forming accountability circles like mine, or are they just slogging it out alone? Honestly, that thought makes me a little sad. This work is rewarding, but it’s also relentless. Deadlines never stop, and let’s face it—some clients can be… let’s just say, “challenging.” If you’re out there doing it all alone, the pressure must be crushing.
So, what can you do?
You’ve actually got a few options:
Find a mentor. There are lots of professional programs available, but it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Xero even has a fantastic free Mentor Match program that connects you with other bookkeepers.
Create your own accountability circle. Reach out to peers you respect and trust. Even if it’s just a monthly Zoom coffee to talk nerdy bookkeeping stuff—it counts!
Phone a friend (me!). Seriously, I’m always up for a chat. Maybe I can even connect you with other solos in your area. Think of me as the robot Dexter from Perfect Match—helping you find your bookkeeping soulmate.
Whatever path you choose, just don’t go it alone. Ours is a warm, inclusive industry full of people who genuinely want to see each other succeed.
Find your tribe. Share the load. Hold each other accountable. And most importantly, give yourself the support you need to create the practice you’ve been dreaming of.
And if it all get's too hard, go to the beach!
