#1 - Revenue trends 📈

Look at monthly and quarterly revenue, not just total sales.

Example: If revenue spikes every March but drops in summer, you can plan promotions or offers to smooth it out.

#2 - Profit margin 📈

This shows how much money you keep after expenses.

Example: Two businesses both make $10,000 a month, but one keeps $7,000 while the other keeps $2,000. The business with less margin has far less room to scale without added stress or risk.

#3 - Client or customer acquisition cost 📈

Know what it costs to get a new client.

Example: If you spend $200 on ads to get a $1,000 client, growth feels much more sustainable, especially if that client stays with you or makes repeat purchases.

#4 - Cash flow 📈

Cash flow shows when money actually comes in and goes out, not just what you earn on paper.

Example: You can be profitable but still stressed if clients pay late, subscriptions renew before invoices are paid, or tax payments are not set aside.

Healthy cash flow gives you breathing room to grow.

#5 - Operating expenses 📈

Operating expenses are the costs required to run your business day to day.

Example: Software, contractors, marketing tools, and subscriptions can slowly increase as you grow.

Reviewing them regularly helps you cut what you no longer need and protect your profit as revenue increases.

#6 - Average transaction value 📈

This is the average amount each client or customer spends with your business.

Example: Instead of adding more clients, you can increase this number by offering packages, add on services, or upsells.

Small increases per client can lead to significant revenue growth without increasing your workload.