I just came off a client call that really stuck with me — not because we were talking tax or turnover, but because we were talking purpose.
And I wanted to share that with you.
Because too often, accountants (and business owners) skip past why someone’s in business and go straight to how much they’re making.
But honestly? That’s the wrong starting point.
The First Question Every Accountant Should Ask
It shouldn’t be, “What’s your turnover?”
Or “How much profit did you make?”
It should be:
“Why are you in business?”
“What’s the bigger picture here?”
When I ask this question, I usually get surface-level answers like:
“I thought I could do better than my old boss.”
“I wanted more freedom.”
“I wanted to earn more.”
But when we go deeper, the real answers come out — the ones tied to meaning, legacy, and impact.
That’s the stuff that really fuels you when the early mornings and late nights hit.
What Drives You?
Whether it’s building schools in your hometown, donating to causes close to your heart, or creating a company culture your old employer could only dream of — purpose changes how you show up.
For example, the client I was speaking with wants to use part of his business profits to support small local charities that have made a tangible difference in his life. You should’ve seen his face light up when he talked about that. And that passion? That’s exactly what drives business growth sustainably.
Recommended Reading: Start with Why
I suggested two books on that call:
- What’s Your Dream? by Simon Squibb
- Start With Why by Simon Sinek
Both ask essential questions that most business owners forget to answer. Questions like:
- What really motivates you?
- What kind of life are you trying to build — not just for you, but for others?
- Are you building a business or just giving yourself a harder job?
Even if you don’t agree with everything they say, they’ll get you thinking bigger.
Money Isn’t Evil — Misalignment Is
Here’s a belief I hold, even if it’s not always popular:
Pursue wealth first — so you can give back more later.
We look at people like Bill Gates and forget he had to build Microsoft before he could try to eradicate malaria.
Money doesn’t make you bad. In fact, it can make you better, if you use it with intention. What you do with it is what defines you.
My Own Purpose
Here’s mine:
- Helping people who feel overwhelmed by numbers and tax. If I can explain something clearly and give someone peace of mind, I’m happy.
- Building a workplace I would’ve loved to be part of. That’s what drives my focus on team culture and making sure our people love what they do.
- Giving back to causes that matter locally, not just ticking CSR boxes.
It’s not just about making money. Because once you’re comfortable, more money doesn’t make you happier. But helping others? Creating change? That sticks.
What This Means For You
So, if your accountant only talks about tax and never asks about your dreams, your impact, or where you want to go — maybe it’s time to switch.
Great financial advice isn’t just about saving tax.
It’s about helping you build a business that means something.
If that’s a conversation you want to have?
Book a chat with me — let’s talk purpose, not just profits.
Add this link to the book a chat with me line: https://calendly.com/adaptiveaccountancy/initial-chat?month=2025-06
