How to break the cycle and get your end-of-year accounts done EARLY!
Spring has sprung, the weather is getting warmer, and some of us might even have enjoyed an early break after the drabness of winter. Personally, I have returned from an invigorating skiing trip to Austria. Just what I needed after a busy January dealing with an onslaught of tax returns!
Whilst the clocks going forward signals better things to come, April, of course, also marks the end of another tax year.
And as the tax year draws to a close, many business owners feel a familiar sense of pressure creeping in. The receipts are somewhere, the spreadsheets are… half done, and the idea of tackling end-of-year accounts can feel overwhelming.
So they ignore it.
And then ignore it again.
But here’s the truth: the earlier you tackle your end-of-year accounts, the easier—and more beneficial—it becomes.
The whole premise of my business is about helping my clients make sense of the numbers, but I can only do that if they do their bit.
Let’s start with why we avoid it in the first place.
Why do we procrastinate with our accounts?
Procrastination around finances isn’t laziness—it’s often emotional.
For many business owners, their accounts represent more than numbers. They can bring up questions like:
- “Have I done well enough this year?”
- “What if I’ve made mistakes?”
- “What if I owe more than I expect?”
That uncertainty can lead to avoidance. Add to that the fact that accounting tasks often feel complex, time-consuming, or simply boring, and it’s no surprise they slip down the priority list.
There’s also the temptation to think we’ll have more time, energy, or clarity later. But in reality, delaying usually makes things more stressful.
This is more common that you think -ask any accountant!
You’re not the first business owner to put off a task like this—and you certainly won’t be the last. In fact, entire books have been written about why we delay the things that matter most.
In Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy, the idea is simple: if you tackle your most important (and often most uncomfortable) task first, everything else becomes easier. For many business owners, their “frog” is their accounts. It’s not urgent today, but it quietly grows into something much bigger the longer it’s left.
Similarly, The War of Art by Steven Pressfield introduces the concept of “Resistance”—that invisible force that stops us from doing the work we know we should be doing. It shows up as distraction, delay, or convincing ourselves we’ll feel more ready tomorrow.
Sound familiar?
The key takeaway from both is this: waiting until you feel ready rarely works. Action creates momentum—not the other way around.
So instead of waiting for the perfect time, treat your accounts like your “frog”. Start before you feel ready and let progress carry you forward.
The good news? A few simple steps can make the process far more manageable.
6 simple ways to get your accounts done quickly and easily
1. Start with what you have—not what’s perfect
You don’t need a perfectly organised system to begin, although I do encourage you to get one. Start by gathering what’s already to hand: bank statements, invoices, receipts, and any bookkeeping records. Progress beats perfection here.
2. Break it down into smaller tasks
“Do my accounts” feels huge. Instead, break it into chunks:
- Income
- Expenses
- Receipts
- Bank reconciliation
Tackling one piece at a time makes it far less overwhelming. Of course, if you are using software such as FreeAgent or Xero, all this is readily available.
3. Set a short, focused time block
Give yourself a realistic window—say 60 to 90 minutes—and focus on just one area. You’ll be surprised how much you can achieve when you remove distractions and have a clear endpoint.
4. Use simple tools (or the ones you already have)
Whether it’s accounting software or a well-structured spreadsheet, stick with what feels manageable. The goal is clarity, not complexity.
5. Ask for help early
If something doesn’t make sense, don’t wait. A quick question to your accountant or bookkeeper can save hours of confusion later. I am always available and my educational approach is all about breaking down barriers and making things as simple as possible for clients.
6. Keep everything in one place going forward
As you work through your accounts, create a system for next year—whether that’s a digital folder, an app, or a simple monthly habit. Future you will thank you.
The benefits of doing your accounts now (not later)
Once your accounts are up to date, the benefits go far beyond simply ticking a box.
Clarity and control
You get a clear picture of how your business is really performing—what’s working, what’s not, and where your money is going.
Better decision-making
With accurate figures, you can make informed choices about pricing, spending, and growth.
More time to plan (and save)
Knowing your tax position early gives you time to prepare, rather than scramble at the last minute.
Reduced stress
No looming deadlines. No last-minute panic. Just a sense of calm and control.
Stronger conversations with your accountant
When your information is organised, your accountant can offer better advice—helping you spot opportunities, not just meet obligations.
A fresh start for the new tax year
There’s something powerful about starting the year with everything in order. It sets the tone for better habits and smoother processes.
Getting your end-of-year accounts done now isn’t just about compliance—it’s about confidence.
And while it might not be the most exciting task on your list, it’s one of the most valuable things you can do for your business.
If you’re feeling stuck, start small. One step, one section, one hour. And remember, you can call me at any time if you have questions.
You don’t have to do it all today—but starting today makes all the difference.
If you would like more help to make sense of the numbers, please book a call. I am happy to help.
