When running a company, it’s important to have a clear vision and strong leadership skills. However, these skills aren’t enough to sustain a business. The one thing a business owner should never be is financially ignorant.
 
Sales, cost of goods sold, gross profit, SG&A (Selling, General, and Administrative) expenses, net income, cash flow, inventory turnover, and customer acquisition costs are just some of the overall finances a business owner should be aware of.
Too many business owners trust their accountants to manage these expenses. However, this can increase the risk of missing the early warning signs of trouble. Changes in financial data are the fastest and most honest indicators of a company’s health.
 
This is especially true for small and medium-sized businesses. Business owners must be able to read the numbers, make decisions, and take action. No matter how hard your team works or how great your company’s reputation is, the business will come to an end if the cash isn’t flowing. 

You should be able to answer instantly:
“How much are we spending right now, and how much do we need next month?”
If you can’t immediately answer this question, you shouldn’t be a business owner.

To be good with numbers, start by reviewing the numbers every single day. It’s not enough to just look at your reports once a month. Watch your daily sales and expenses, and stay in tune with your company’s financial vital signs.

Numbers don't lie. And once you understand the numbers, you won’t hesitate to make business decisions.
As a business owner, you must be good with numbers.
That is the very first step in protecting your employees and your customers.