Labor Day isn’t just about rest—it’s also a great reminder to find smarter ways to work. As a small business owner, your time is your most valuable resource. September is the perfect month to reflect on the systems and workflows that can help lighten your load and improve efficiency. After all, working harder isn’t always the answer—working smarter is.
Let’s look at a few ways you can work smarter—not harder—and lighten your load this September:
1. Automate Routine Tasks – From scheduling social media to sending invoices, automation tools can save you hours each week. For example, use a tool like Dubsado or HoneyBook to automate your client onboarding—from sending welcome emails and contracts to scheduling meetings and setting up projects. In QuickBooks, recurring invoices for regular clients ensure consistent billing without lifting a finger. Tools like Zapier can also connect your favorite platforms to automate repetitive tasks between apps.
2. Delegate What You Can – Whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant or outsourcing your bookkeeping (we can help with that!), freeing up your mental space means more time to focus on growth. For instance, if you’re spending 10 hours a month reconciling transactions or tracking receipts, handing that over could save you more than a full day’s work. A skilled bookkeeper ensures accuracy, provides valuable insights, and gives you back time to invest in high-level decision-making.
3. Streamline Your Tech Stack – Are you juggling multiple apps that don’t integrate well? Switching to all-in-one tools can simplify your workflow and reduce frustration. For example, platforms like Square or Zoho offer features for scheduling, payments, CRM, and email communication—eliminating the need to jump between different systems. The result? Fewer errors, less tech fatigue, and a smoother customer experience.
4. Create Reusable Templates – Tired of rewriting the same emails or documents? Start building a library of templates for proposals, contracts, and responses. For instance, develop a client onboarding email series, prewritten social media captions, or a polished pricing guide PDF. These templates help ensure consistency, speed up communication, and make your brand feel more professional.
5. Block Your Time – Time blocking is a simple yet effective way to make sure the important stuff gets done without burning out. Set aside specific blocks for tasks like bookkeeping, emails, and client calls. For example, dedicate Friday mornings to reviewing your finances and reconciling your accounts—this habit keeps your books clean and avoids end-of-month stress. Use tools like Google Calendar or Toggl to stick to your blocks and stay on track.
By investing in the right tools and habits now, you’re not only saving time—you’re building a more sustainable and enjoyable business long-term. And if you’re ready to take one more thing off your plate, Tally Up Accounting is here to help. From organized books to financial insights, we help business owners reclaim their time and focus on growth. Let’s make this fall your most efficient season yet!