The Owner’s Pay Plan: Don’t Wait for Leftovers-You deserve to be paid first — not last
Too many contractors pay everyone else first — then hope there’s something left over for themselves.
That’s not a strategy. That’s survival mode. And it’s no way to build a stable, profitable business that supports your life.
The fix? A structured Owner’s Pay Plan. One where you:
- Set a monthly draw target
- Build it into your pricing
- Prioritize it in your cash flow
- Adjust as your business grows
This isn’t about being greedy. It’s about making sure your business works for you — not the other way around.
One contractor I coached had been in business 9 years. His team was well-paid. Jobs were getting done. But he was only drawing $3,500/month for himself — and sometimes skipped months altogether. We reviewed his pricing and cash flow. He was undercharging by 8–10% across the board and overpaying on overhead. After we made adjustments, he started paying himself $6,000/month — and had enough left for taxes, reserves, and bonuses.
You didn’t start a business to be your own worst boss.
Want to build a draw plan that pays you consistently
Pick up your free copy of my new book, “The 7 Minute Conversation-How to Hear the Story Your Small Business Financial Statements Are Telling You-CONTRACTOR EDITION”. Go to www.7MinuteConversationBook.com
Ready to find out where your cash and profits are really going? Book your free 15-minute Profit and Cash Flow Call with me. No pressure. Just real clarity. I’ll help you see where your money’s hiding — and what to do about it. Schedule at www.CashFlowCallWithLarry.com