Why profit is not a dirty word

Dirty words, profanity, cursing, offensive language, expletives, or vulgarism – there are many ways to refer to those ‘words you’re not really supposed to say.’ Some are worse than others and some are even accepted in certain situations. Generally, dirty words aren’t appropriate in the business world and should probably never be used in a boardroom or during a client coffee meeting! We’ve all slipped up once or twice though, haven’t we? Shh I won’t tell anyone.

For some reason, ‘profit’ has become a dirty word in business. The very mention of the word seems to send some people into a frenzy, as if it’s a dirty word or something to be ashamed of.

I’m here to tell you my friends, that profit is NOT a dirty word. In fact, it’s a necessary for any business. That’s right. Profit is NOT a dirty word and it’s necessary for any business (just making sure that sunk right in).

So, why is profit nothing to be ashamed of, and why is it actually kind of awesome?

Grab a cuppa, get comfy in your favourite chair, and keep reading to find out.

What is profit anyway?

First things first: let’s define what profit is in all its glory.

Profit is the money that a business makes after deducting all its expenses. It’s the sweet, sweet reward (as sweet as your favourite cake) for all the hard work and dedication that goes into running your small business – a reward that you deserve, not something to feel ashamed of.

It’s the money you have left over after you subtract all your expenses from your revenue. Think of it like a big chocolate chip cookie. Your revenue is the dough, your expenses are the chocolate chips, and your profit is the delicious, gooey centre. Without that centre, you’re just left with a boring, plain old cookie. Is your mouth watering yet?

Without profit, a business simply can’t survive. It’s like trying to run a marathon without any water – you’re going to crash and burn, my friend.

When you make a profit in your business, you have a successful one. And of course, the more profit you make, the more successful your business becomes. It’s what allows companies to grow, create jobs, and provide valuable goods and services to customers. And there’s nothing wrong with that!

Think about it: if a company isn’t making a profit, how can it continue to exist?

You’re not greedy or selfish for wanting to make a profit. And let’s face it, how on earth are you going to pay your rent and put food on the table without it?

It’s what you do with that money that matters…

Profit is for small business too

There’s a common misconception that profit is only for the big bad corporations. That’s not true! Profit is for everyone – from the global enterprises, to the small business owner and the lemonade stand operator. It’s the lifeblood of entrepreneurship, and what fuels innovation and progress.

Want your small business to grow? You need money to invest in it! Whether it’s hiring staff, expanding your products, increasing your advertising budget, or upskilling yourself to offer more services, you need cash to make it happen.

And where does that cash come from? You guessed it: your profit.

Want your small business to survive? (of course, you do). Profit allows you to keep money in your business to help you handle any hiccups that come your way. You’ll sleep better at night knowing your business has a nest egg to keep it afloat.

Say it loud and proud

So, you see, profit is NOT a dirty word. It’s a necessary and important part of running a successful business. So go out there, make some money, and make sure you’re making a profit while you’re at it.

Don’t be afraid to say the word profit either. Say it loud and proud! Embrace it! Because if your small business is earning a profit my friend, you’re doing something right and that’s something to truly celebrate.

Not making a profit in your small business? Don’t know how to make it happen?

Read this blog I wrote on how to charge your worth – it even includes a basic formula to help you price your product or service, including profit (there’s that not so dirty word again).

Need a little more help? Purchase my How to price yourself Masterclass and receive a PDF workbook and Excel Spreadsheet to guide you through your pricing. 

Prefer to talk profit with me one on one? Book an hour of power for powerful personalised advice on how to start making you some serious profit in your small business.

With kindness – Lala xo

Making small business better