“In the journey of entrepreneurship, it’s not about achieving perfect balance; it’s about recognizing the plates you can spin and giving each the attention it deserves to create a life and business that thrive.”

– Roger Knecht

In a world where the demands of entrepreneurship often blur the lines between personal fulfillment and professional success, Roger Knecht emerges as a guiding light for business owners seeking balance. As the president of Universal Accounting Center, Roger has spent over a decade empowering entrepreneurs to navigate the complexities of their operations while cultivating a mindset geared toward sustainable growth. His innovative approach integrates the “Wheel of Life” into business coaching, emphasizing the interplay between personal values and business objectives.

In this enlightening conversation, Roger shares invaluable insights on rekindling passion, embracing self-care, and fostering a thriving entrepreneurial mindset. With a commitment to creating a supportive environment, he helps clients realize their full potential and thrive amid the challenges of business ownership. Join us as we explore Roger’s philosophies and practical strategies for achieving a well-rounded life in business.


Thank you so much for joining us, Roger! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory?

Certainly! I appreciate the opportunity. I’m Roger Knecht, president of Universal Accounting Center. My journey has taken me through a decade of working closely with owners of bookkeeping, accounting, and tax businesses, as well as other industries, in my role as a business coach. My mission is to empower these entrepreneurs to build their companies and deliver quality accounting services. Throughout my career, I’ve focused on helping business owners navigate the complexities of their operations and develop strategies that not only grow their businesses but also create lasting value. My commitment to their success is deeply rooted in my belief that when they thrive, it ultimately leads to a fulfilling life, both personally and professionally.

That’s amazing. You often discuss the Wheel of Life in relation to business. Can you explain what that concept entails?

Absolutely! The Wheel of Life is an insightful exercise I use to kick off my coaching engagements. It helps me connect with my clients on a personal level by understanding their motivations for being in business. We explore the balance between their personal and professional responsibilities, which naturally leads to a discussion about the Wheel of Life and the Wheel of Business. This exercise is designed to bring clarity to how personal values and business objectives intersect, allowing me to better assist them in their journey. It’s all about creating a roadmap that aligns their core values with their business goals, ensuring they stay true to themselves while pursuing success.

Why is understanding a client’s personal life crucial for their business success?

Understanding a client’s personal life allows me to identify any distractions that may hinder their business growth. Personal challenges can often seep into their professional performance, so addressing these areas helps them regain their focus and drive. For instance, if a client is dealing with relationship issues or health concerns, these can manifest as stress or distraction in their work environment. By recognizing and discussing these personal factors, I can provide tailored coaching that addresses the whole individual, leading to a more holistic approach to their business success.

Many entrepreneurs face plateaus in their journey. What advice do you have for those who feel stuck?

Rekindling the passion that once fueled their ambitions is key. When entrepreneurs feel their business has plateaued, it often reflects personal issues that need attention. By exploring these areas, they can overcome stagnation and reignite their enthusiasm for their business. I encourage clients to reflect on their initial motivations for starting their business and reconnect with those driving forces. Sometimes, this means revisiting their original vision and values or even pivoting their business model to better align with their current passions and market demands.

You talk about the sacrifices that entrepreneurs make. Can you elaborate on this?

Sacrifices are inevitable in the business world, but they shouldn’t come at the expense of personal happiness or relationships. Recognizing when we’ve neglected important aspects of our lives allows us to realign our priorities and nurture what truly matters. Many entrepreneurs tend to prioritize their business over everything else, leading to burnout and strained relationships. I emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and consciously choosing where to allocate time and energy. This balance can significantly impact their overall well-being and productivity, allowing them to flourish both personally and professionally.

How do you suggest individuals find a balance between work and personal life?

I believe the traditional concept of work-life balance is a bit of a misnomer. Instead, it’s about effectively managing priorities. The idea of spinning plates illustrates that we can only handle so many responsibilities at once. Understanding our limits and recognizing when adjustments are needed is crucial for maintaining a fulfilling life. I advise clients to regularly evaluate their commitments and identify what truly matters to them, both personally and professionally. This reflection helps them prioritize effectively, ensuring they are not spreading themselves too thin across multiple responsibilities.

How do you use the Wheel of Life to help your clients?

The Wheel of Life serves as a visual tool for clients to rank different aspects of their lives, such as career, health, family, and personal growth. This exercise allows them to identify areas that need attention, leading to actionable steps for improvement. I guide clients through this process, encouraging honest self-assessment. By visualizing their current satisfaction levels in each area, they can pinpoint where they need to invest more time and effort, ultimately leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

What are some common mistakes you see among entrepreneurs regarding self-care?

Many entrepreneurs view self-care as selfish, leading them to neglect their own needs. This can result in burnout and decreased effectiveness in both their personal and professional lives. It’s crucial for them to give themselves permission to prioritize their well-being. I stress that self-care is not an indulgence; it’s a necessity for sustained success. Regularly taking time for self-care activities can recharge their energy and enhance their focus, making them more effective in their business pursuits.

Can you explain how QR codes fit into your coaching process?

QR codes play a significant role in facilitating easy access to information and resources. They simplify the sharing process, allowing clients to quickly connect with essential materials without the hassle of typing long URLs. This technology streamlines communication, ensuring that clients have immediate access to valuable resources that enhance their learning experience. By incorporating QR codes, I provide clients with quick links to worksheets, videos, and other tools that support their growth without adding unnecessary friction to the process.

Do you think many business owners struggle to keep up with technological advancements?

Yes, technology evolves rapidly, and some business owners may find themselves stuck in old ways. It’s important to remain open to learning new tools and leveraging them to improve efficiency and reduce stress. I encourage my clients to adopt a growth mindset regarding technology. Embracing new tools not only helps them stay competitive but also allows them to streamline their operations and focus on strategic initiatives instead of getting bogged down in routine tasks.

How can business owners create a culture that encourages open communication among their employees?

A supportive culture involves recognizing individual strengths and empowering employees. It’s essential for leaders to act as mentors rather than just bosses, encouraging team members to voice concerns and suggestions freely. I advise leaders to create regular opportunities for feedback and discussion, such as team meetings or one-on-one check-ins. This not only fosters a culture of trust but also ensures that employees feel valued and heard, which can lead to higher morale and productivity.

What do you think prevents some leaders from delegating effectively?

Many leaders struggle with the belief that no one can do the job as well as they can. However, it’s crucial for them to recognize that empowering others not only fosters team growth but also allows them to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives. I often share with my clients the importance of building a strong team and trusting them to take ownership of their roles. This not only helps distribute the workload but also encourages a sense of accountability and pride among team members.

How do you measure success in the coaching process with your clients?

Success can be measured in various ways, depending on the client’s goals. It might include achieving specific business milestones, improving financial performance, or even enhancing personal well-being. I focus on setting clear, actionable goals at the start of our engagement, and we regularly review progress to ensure accountability and make adjustments as needed. By establishing specific metrics for success, my clients can celebrate their achievements and remain motivated throughout the coaching process.

Can you share a success story from your coaching experience that highlights the impact of your approach?

Absolutely! One of my clients was a small accounting firm struggling to grow. By implementing the Wheel of Life and mapping out their business processes, we identified areas for improvement. Over time, they began delegating tasks, enhancing their service offerings, and ultimately saw a 30% increase in revenue within a year. This success not only improved their business but also allowed them to regain a better work-life balance. Their transformation was a testament to the power of aligning personal values with business goals.

What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting their journey?

My advice would be to embrace the learning process. It’s vital to be open to feedback, understand that mistakes are part of growth, and prioritize self-care. Establishing a strong support network, whether through mentorship or peer groups, can also provide valuable insights and encouragement as they navigate their entrepreneurial journey. The entrepreneurial path is filled with ups and downs, and having a reliable network can make all the difference in overcoming challenges.

How do you approach the change process with your clients?

I utilize the Wheel of Business to help clients assess their business’s performance visually. By identifying areas needing attention, we can create a plan for improvement that’s realistic and sustainable. This process involves a thorough evaluation of their current operations and identifying specific steps they can take to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. I support my clients throughout this journey, ensuring they feel confident in their ability to implement changes and achieve their desired outcomes.

How long does it typically take for clients to see results from your coaching?

Change takes time, and I usually tell my clients to expect a timeline of 12 to 18 months for meaningful results. The initial phase is often about understanding their business and identifying areas for improvement. It’s crucial for them to be patient and committed to the process, as sustainable growth often requires consistent effort and adaptation over time.

What strategies do you use to help clients avoid feeling overwhelmed?

I encourage clients to write down their ideas and prioritize them. This helps them manage their thoughts and reduce anxiety. Breaking tasks into manageable steps can significantly alleviate feelings of overwhelm. I also emphasize the importance of creating a structured plan that outlines their goals and deadlines, which can provide clarity and a sense of direction amidst the chaos of running a business.

What are some final thoughts you would like to share with our readers?

Recognize your limits and prioritize effectively. Balance isn’t about equal distribution of time but about knowing where to focus your energy. It’s important to be genuine to yourself and align your actions with your values. This alignment not only leads to greater satisfaction but also enhances your ability to achieve your business goals.

Can you share more about the services you provide for business owners?

I work primarily with owners of accounting and bookkeeping businesses, helping them train their staff to provide quality services. My focus is on helping them become the premier accounting firm in their area. For resources, they can visit my website, universalaccounting.com, where I provide various free materials to assist business owners. These resources are designed to empower entrepreneurs and equip them with the tools they need to succeed.

How can our readers further follow your work online?

I invite your readers to connect with me at my website, universalaccounting.com. There, they will find a wealth of free resources and valuable insights specifically designed for business owners looking to enhance their operations and achieve greater success. I truly appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts today, and I look forward to engaging with anyone interested in furthering their journey.

Thank you, Roger, for sharing your valuable insights! It’s been a pleasure having this conversation with you today.

To dive deeper into Roger Knecht’s insights on balancing life and business, be sure to listen to his podcast episode, where he shares practical strategies for rekindling passion and navigating the entrepreneurial journey. https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wheel-of-life-and-business-explained–60665226

President and CEO of Universal Accounting Center

Roger Knecht is the president of Universal Accounting Center, where he passionately empowers business owners in the bookkeeping, accounting, and tax sectors to grow their companies and enhance their operational efficiencies. With over a decade of experience as a business coach, Roger is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs achieve their dreams through comprehensive training and coaching services. To learn more about Roger and his work, visit Universal Accounting Center.