A Day in the Life of a Bookkeeping Business Owner: Balancing Clients, Kids, and Chaos

Running a bookkeeping practice, like any other business, is no small feat, but doing it while managing a house with three small children, a dog, and trying to keep my sanity? That’s a whole different ballgame!

As the owner of FJH Bookkeeping Services, my days are a juggling act of helping clients grow their businesses, keeping my own business running smoothly, and making sure the kids (and the dog) are fed, dressed, and where they need to be.

Here’s a peek into a typical day in my life:

6:00 AM: Early Bird Mode:

The day starts early, and I either dive into work or head to the gym. It’s a precious hour of productivity or self-care before the chaos begins.

7:00 AM: Full Mum Mode Activated:

By 7 AM, it’s all hands on deck. Breakfasts, snacks, and lunches are prepped, uniforms are found (sometimes miraculously), and the kids are herded out the door. Here’s a little secret: the packed lunch is usually for me since the kids get free school meals – as an accountant, I know the value of making the most of those perks!

9:00 AM: School Drop-Off and Starting the Day at the Office: 

While I’m on the school run, the office officially opens up. My team kicks off the day by clearing down client emails and processing any data that’s been sent in overnight. Once I’m back from the drop-off, I either head to the gym for a class or dive straight into work, depending on how my morning started.

Oh, and Loki, my dog, often comes along to the office with me. Our office is based in beautiful grounds, which Loki absolutely loves to explore when the team takes their lunch breaks and brings him along for a walk. He’s not just great company but also a morale booster for everyone!

10:00/11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Emails and Admin: 

The morning at work starts with clearing down emails, having a client call, or tackling any pressing admin tasks. It’s a moment of calm before I deep dive into client work and have a head full of numbers.

12:00 PM – 12:30 PM: Lunch Break: 

I always try to carve out 30 minutes to have lunch and recharge. It’s a great opportunity for the team to step outside, stretch their legs, and let Loki have a little adventure in the grounds.

12:30 PM – 5:30 PM: Client Work Zone: 

Afternoons are all about my clients. Whether it’s ad hoc tasks, reviewing VAT returns, preparing monthly P&L accounts, or checking payroll figures, this is where I dive into the work that helps my clients grow their businesses.

5:30 PM: School Run Round Two:

The late school run kicks off the evening routine. Once we’re home, it’s time for dinner, homework, baths, and bedtime chaos – the usual mum duties that keep the household running.

8:30 PM: Wrapping Up the Day:

Once the kids are in bed, it’s time to wind down... or not. Evenings are a mix of housework, catching up on admin, or planning ahead for the next day. Sometimes, it’s even writing blogs like this one.

Why I Love What I Do 

Life as a bookkeeping business owner and mum is a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s not always easy, but the satisfaction of helping my clients succeed while creating a flexible life for my family makes it all worthwhile.