Money talk can feel heavy, and even awkward, for many women—and especially for women in business. Oftentimes, we’re conditioned to believe that talking about money is impolite. Or, that wanting financial success is selfish. But, these are both myths that keep us underpaid, overworked, and in the dark.
Overcoming these false narratives starts with talking about money and familiarizing ourselves with our finances. Because financial transparency is one of the fastest ways to change our money story and to start building the business (and life) we actually want.
The Myth: Talking About Money Is Rude
From a young age, many women are taught that talking about money is impolite. But, when we’re discouraged from having open conversations about money, we’re less likely to negotiate our rates, ask for help, or compare financial benchmarks. And that isolation can make us feel uncertain and/or alone in our financial struggles and wins.
Talking about money—openly and without shame—isn’t impolite. It’s empowering. It helps us make informed decisions, raise our standards, and build financial confidence.
I love this Ellevest Instagram post and caption (below) from Allison Venditti, CEO and Founder of Moms at Work.
“The more that we talk about money together, the better. When we’re transparent about our spending, budgeting, negotiating, earning, and investing with those closest to us, we equip each other with the knowledge to be our best financial selves.
To be clear: You don’t have to tell everyone about all your financial business. But if we don’t compare experiences with other women, we don’t learn what’s worked for other women (or learn from what hasn’t). If we don’t talk about money with our partners when we’re dating or when we’re married (or engaged), we’re keeping ourselves in the dark about our financial futures. Same if we avoid the money talk with our parents. And if we don’t talk about money with our children, we aren’t giving them the tools to do better with money.”
The Myth: Wanting Financial Success Is Selfish
According to an Ellevest survey, 49% of women say they feel like they have to justify their purchases/money decisions. Why? Because there’s a persistent idea that women are frivolous spenders and are expected to give instead of build wealth.
I believe that all women deserve to flex their economic power without feeling stigmatized. And the truth is, wanting financial success doesn’t make you selfish. It makes you smart. More money in the hands of women means more impact, more opportunity, and more freedom. That’s not selfish—that’s powerful.
It’s Okay If You Don’t Just “Know How to Money”
Business finances aren’t something you’re born knowing how to do. And if no one ever taught you, it’s okay if you feel behind. However, that doesn’t mean you’re bad with money—it just means you’re ready to learn.
Here are some tips to start getting comfortable with your business finances:
- Start small. Set aside 30 minutes a week to review your income and expenses. Get familiar with what’s coming in and what’s going out. Track patterns. Notice what surprises you.
- Use tools that work for you. Create a spreadsheet, download an app, or work with a bookkeeper (like me!) who helps you understand—not just manage—your numbers.
- Most importantly, give yourself grace. Learning your numbers takes time. But it gets easier with practice. The confidence that comes from clarity is always worth it.
Try the Profit First Method
If traditional budgeting isn’t working for you, you’re not alone. That’s why I use and teach the Profit First method. It flips the old-school accounting formula on its head. Instead of Income – Expenses = Profit, you prioritize profit first.
Here’s the simplified version: when money comes in, you immediately allocate portions to different “buckets” (profit, owner’s pay, taxes, operating expenses). This ensures you’re paying yourself consistently and planning for the future.
It’s a simple but transformative method that gives you visibility and control over your cash flow. Want a step-by-step guide to getting started? Listen to my Profit First podcast here.
Final Thoughts (And Your Next Step)
Talking about money is one of the most radical things you can do as a woman in business. Because when you understand your numbers, you make better decisions and build a stronger financial future. Plus, you help other women do the same.
And you don’t have to do this alone. If you’re ready to finally get your bookkeeping in order—let’s work together. Book a VIP Day to get a full financial deep dive, a streamlined plan, and my eyes on your business. Or, schedule a Profit First Consult to start paying yourself consistently and feel confident in your cash flow. Because you deserve to feel good about your money and proud of the business you’re building.
