Why Entrepreneurs Must Pay Themselves First
You started your business to create freedom, right?
So why are so many entrepreneurs working harder than ever… while barely paying themselves?
If you’ve ever said, “I’ll start taking a paycheck once the business makes more money,” here’s a bit of tough love:
If you don’t prioritize paying yourself now, you never will.
Why So Many Business Owners Don’t Pay Themselves
There are a few common traps entrepreneurs fall into:
1. Reinvesting everything back into the business because they think it’s the “smart” move.
(It can be… but not if it leaves you personally broke.)
2. Feeling guilty about taking money out when expenses are high.
(You deserve to be compensated for the value you create.)
3. Lacking a system that ensures consistent owner’s pay.
(You’d never skip payroll for your employees… so why skip your own?)
If your business isn’t structured in a way that allows you to pay yourself, something needs to change.
Why Paying Yourself First Isn’t Selfish
Paying yourself isn’t a luxury… it’s a necessity.
It ensures your personal financial stability.
You can’t make sound business decisions when you’re worried about paying your own bills.
It forces profitability.
If there’s no room in your budget to pay yourself, it’s a sign that your pricing, costs, or structure need a tune-up.
It builds sustainability.
A business that doesn’t support its owner eventually burns out… or shuts down.
How to Start Paying Yourself (Even If It Feels Impossible)
You don’t need to overhaul everything overnight. Start small:
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Set aside a percentage of revenue for your salary… even 5% is a start.
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Create a dedicated Owner’s Pay Account and transfer money to it regularly.
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Follow the Profit First method: pay yourself before expenses.
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Treat yourself like an employee: schedule your own payday.
Consistency matters more than the amount. The habit creates discipline… and that’s what leads to long-term financial health.
Common Excuses (and the Truth Behind Them)
“I can’t afford to pay myself.”
Start with something small. The habit matters more than the dollar amount.
“I need to reinvest everything back into the business.”
A company that can’t pay its owner isn’t profitable… it’s expensive.
“I’ll pay myself once I make more money.”
If you don’t build the habit now, that “someday” will never come.
The Long-Term Payoff
When you prioritize your own paycheck:
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You experience less financial stress and make better business decisions.
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You build a profitable and resilient business model.
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You finally have a business that supports your life… not the other way around.
Final Thought
You work hard for your business.
Make sure your business is working hard for you.
Paying yourself first isn’t selfish… it’s a commitment to building something sustainable, profitable, and truly free.