24 Mar 2026
Insights from the Small Business Community
At Singletree Accountants, we believe that the most valuable investment any business owner can make is not just financial—it's personal.
To better understand how entrepreneurs are preparing for the year ahead, we looked at insights shared by the small business community via Informi. The responses highlight a powerful shift in mindset for 2026: growth is no longer just about working harder—it's about working smarter, living better, and building sustainably.
Here are the key themes shaping how business owners are investing in themselves this year:
1. Focusing on Strengths, Not Burnout
A recurring message is clear:
Business owners are moving away from doing everything themselves.
Instead, they are:
This shift allows for higher productivity, better decision-making, and ultimately stronger business performance.
Singletree Insight:
Outsourcing and financial clarity go hand in hand. When your numbers are clear, you can confidently decide what to delegate and where to invest.
2. Small, Consistent Actions Over Big Efforts
Rather than overwhelming themselves with large tasks, many entrepreneurs are committing to:
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Daily marketing habits
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Regular learning
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Incremental improvements
Consistency is proving far more effective than occasional bursts of effort.
3. Investing in Relationships & Community
Networking is evolving.
Business owners are prioritising:
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Meaningful connections over transactional networking
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Communities aligned with their values
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Conversations that inspire growth
These relationships are becoming key drivers of new opportunities and ideas.
4. Prioritising Mental Health & Wellbeing
One of the strongest themes for 2026 is wellbeing.
Entrepreneurs are:
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Taking intentional downtime
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Practising mindfulness (yoga, walking, reflection)
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Setting boundaries to avoid burnout
Many recognise that a clear mind leads to better business decisions.
Singletree Insight:
Sustainable growth isn't just financial—it's personal. A healthy business owner builds a healthy business.
5. Continuous Learning & Skill Development
From coaching programmes to professional qualifications, business owners are actively investing in:
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New skills
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Personal development
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Industry knowledge
Importantly, many are shifting away from generic courses and choosing targeted, high-value learning experiences.
6. Building Visibility & Personal Brand
A number of entrepreneurs are focusing on:
They recognise that being visible is essential for growth in today's competitive landscape.
7. Working Smarter: Systems, Support & Strategy
Rather than adding more workload, business owners are:
The goal is simple:
Build a business that doesn't rely entirely on them.
8. Reclaiming Time & Energy
Time is becoming one of the most protected assets.
Entrepreneurs are:
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Scheduling downtime in advance
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Reducing unnecessary commitments
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Creating space for creativity and strategic thinking
Some are even prioritising life experiences and personal fulfilment alongside business growth.
What This Means for Your Business
The message from the 2026 business landscape is clear:
Success is no longer defined by how busy you are—but by how intentional you are.
At Singletree Accountants Ltd, we work with business owners who want more than just compliance.
We help you:
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Gain clarity on your financial position
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Make confident strategic decisions
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Build a business that supports your life—not consumes it
Final Thought
Investing in yourself is not a luxury—it's a strategy.
Whether it's your time, your wellbeing, your knowledge, or your support network, these investments compound over time—just like your finances.
If you're planning your next stage of growth in 2026, start with the most important asset:
You.