Simplify Your Finances: 10 Steps to a Confident Financial Start

When it comes to finances, most entrepreneurs feel stuck, overwhelmed, or even intimidated. The truth? You don’t have to be a numbers genius to take control of your money…

That’s why I sat down with Shanna Skidmore—CFO, financial educator, and creator of the Financial Fresh Start system—on the latest episode of Think Like an Integrator. Shanna’s mission is to empower business owners to understand their finances so they can make confident, strategic decisions for growth.

Shanna has nearly 20 years of experience in finance and a gift for making the intimidating feel approachable. In our conversation, she shared her 10-Step Checklist for Financial Confidence, which includes everything from personal net worth to business budgeting. Here are three of the biggest takeaways that can transform your relationship with money and your business:

The Numbers That Matter

Forget complicated spreadsheets and endless data points. Shanna explains the few key metrics every business owner needs to track for clarity and success. By focusing on these essentials, you’ll gain a clear picture of where your business stands—and where it’s headed. These numbers aren’t just about keeping the lights on; they’re about empowering you to make confident, informed decisions that align with your goals.

The Spending Plan Shift

Budgeting often gets a bad rap, but Shanna redefines it as a “spending plan” that feels freeing instead of restrictive. She walks you through how to create a plan that aligns with your goals and values, so you can spend on what truly matters to you—whether it’s seasonal decor or team development—without the guilt.

Your Enough Number
In a world obsessed with scaling and comparison, Shanna’s approach to finding your “enough number” is a breath of fresh air. She helps you calculate a sales goal that supports both your life and business, freeing you from the constant pressure to chase arbitrary milestones. It’s not about what others are doing—it’s about what you need to feel financially secure and aligned with your vision.

If you’re ready to gain clarity and confidence in your finances, this episode is a must-listen. 

️ Listen to the full episode here!

Let’s make 2025 the year you take control of your numbers—and your business.