What is Your True Focal Point?

Today, I've chosen to deviate a bit from the subject matter of Bookkeeping or Business Administration to ask a question.

As a business owner, what drives you each day?

Is it the pursuit of profit—meeting revenue targets, closing sales, increasing margins? Or is it something deeper: the genuine desire to help people?

This is a question worth musing over, especially in a world where hustle culture often equates success ... solely with financial gain.

Before I go any further, let me offer a simple disclaimer: I am no expert on this topic. What I share comes purely from lived experience—what I have observed, what I have felt, and what I continue to witness as I move through my own entrepreneurial journey.

At the core of a healthy and meaningful existence is a simple truth: people matter. Just as we care for ourselves, we are called to care for others.

This principle is not new. In fact, it has existed since the beginning of time.

Many of us were taught Biblical values that guide how we move through life—virtues such as love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness and temperance. While these words may sound lofty or even idealistic, they have very practical applications, especially in business.

When you think about it, every one of these virtues directly relates to how we interact with people.

Business, at its core, is not solely about systems, products, or profits—when you think about it closely, it's about relationships. Behind every invoice is a human being. Behind every service offered is a need. And behind every transaction is an opportunity to create impact.

Along my journey in business, I have witnessed something remarkable. Business owners who genuinely set out to help others—without hidden agendas or purely transactional motives—often experience what I can only describe as “sweatless victories.”

Doors open for them. Opportunities appear unexpectedly. Connections are formed effortlessly. Growth happens in ways that cannot always be explained by strategy alone.

This does not mean they are not skilled or disciplined. Quite the opposite. These individuals are often highly knowledgeable, deeply committed to their craft, and constantly investing in their growth. But what sets them apart is intent.

Their primary focus is not “How much can I make?” but rather, “How can I serve?”

I recently listened to an entrepreneur share his reflections on his current journey. He admitted that what he is experiencing now has far exceeded what he mapped out for himself just a few years ago. He spoke candidly about doors opening before him—some he anticipated, others he never imagined.

What struck me most was not his success, but his surprise at it.

Yes, he has experience. Yes, he is excellent at what he does. Yes, he invested in certifications and elevated his skill set. But beyond all of that, he genuinely seeks to help others grow. His business model is rooted in service, not exploitation. His success is not built on shortcuts, but on contribution. And I believe that makes all the difference.

Too often, business owners feel pressure to chase money as the ultimate goal. While profitability is essential—after all, no business can survive without it—it should not be the driving force. Money is supposed to be a result, not the purpose.

When helping people becomes the focal point, money follows naturally. Clients trust you more. Referrals come organically. Your reputation grows without forced marketing. People remember how you made them feel—and that feeling becomes your brand.

This principle may sound simple, but it is powerful. It challenges us to shift our mindset from “What can I gain?” to “Who can I help?” It invites us to build businesses that are sustainable not only financially, but ethically and emotionally as well.

As business owners, we have influence—sometimes more than we realize. The way we show up matters. The way we communicate matters. The way we treat clients, partners and even competitors matters. Each interaction is an opportunity to demonstrate values that go far beyond profit.

When service becomes the foundation of your business, success takes on a new meaning. Growth feels aligned rather than forced. Wins feel fulfilling rather than hollow. And the journey itself becomes just as rewarding as the destination.

So I’ll leave you with this question to reflect on:

What is your focal point as a business owner?

Is it simply about making money—or is it about helping people thrive?

I believe that when helping people becomes the priority, success has a way of finding you.

What are your thoughts on this?