Not a numbers person? You don’t need math skills to make smarter business decisions. Here’s how to start using data without the overwhelm.
“That sounds nice, but I’m not a numbers person.”
Ever thought that?
If so, you aren’t alone. I’ve heard it from countless clients over the years.
The good news?
You don’t have to be a math wiz to use your business numbers effectively to pursue growth.
These 4 tips will ease you into using numbers in your business, without needing a math degree.
Let’s Redefine “Numbers Person”
First of all, what does the term “numbers person” even mean?
Most people think about someone with lightning-fast mental math. Or someone who sees numbers everywhere. Or someone who is great at calculations, but struggles talking to other humans.
What if being a “numbers person” has nothing to do with any of that?
Here’s how I would define a “numbers person” in terms of a business owner:
Someone who uses data to make strategic, intentional decisions that drive growth.
Notice…there is nothing in that statement about mental math or complicated equations.
And chances are…you already do this a little bit:
➡️ You check how many likes a post gets
➡️ You keep tabs on which email got the most clicks
➡️ You promote the product that earned the most revenue
You’re already tracking and responding to data—you just need to lean into it strategically and learn how to let the numbers guide your next steps.
Tip #1: Start Small
The vast amount of numbers in your business can feel overwhelming.
But here’s the secret - they don’t all matter.
Trying to track everything leads to burnout…and usually ends with you collecting no numbers at all.
So, start small. Focus on ONE number.
Which one? That depends on your goal.
🏆 Growing your membership? Compare page views to signups.
🏆 Want to spend less on ads? Look into the messaging used on the ones with the highest click-through rates.
The goal is to build the habit of collecting, analyzing & acting on that one number.
Tip #2: Add Visuals for Analysis
Spreadsheets are a fantastic tool for collecting data, but terrible for making sense of it.
Rows of numbers can blur together fast.
Cue the glazed-over stare, the frustrated sigh, and the laptop slam.
The solution? Graphs and charts.
Visuals help you see patterns and outliers so you can ask better questions:
✨ What’s bringing in results?
✨ What’s helping you grow?
Once you know, you can double down on what’s working.
Tip #3: Build a Routine
Becoming a “numbers person” doesn’t happen overnight.
You need to carve out time to collect & analyze your numbers consistently.
Create a calendar event to collect your number weekly, monthly, or quarterly.
Then, set a different time to take 5 - 10 minutes to analyze the data. This is when you’ll pull up your visuals to look for patterns & see what’s happening with your number.
Ask questions like:
➡️ Did my number change over time?
➡️ What actions may have influenced that change (or lack thereof)?
➡️ Can I tie growth back to something specific (a launch, email sequence, bundle)?
Finally, make it enjoyable!
Light a candle, sip your favorite drink, blast your tunes, whatever makes it feel fun & CEO-worthy.
Tip #4: You are the Boss (Not Your Numbers)
In all of this, remember: numbers are the tool, not the ultimate decision maker.
Your numbers aren’t out to get you. They aren’t here to critique your flaws or point out all the things you’re messing up.
They simply provide clarity so you can make changes if, how & when you want to.
You still run the show.
Let’s say your numbers suggest doubling your 1:1 calls will double your revenue, but you don’t want to work more hours. That’s your call to make. The data simply shows the options.
Numbers don’t replace your intuition. They enhance it.
Where to Start Today
Don’t let the idea that you aren’t a “numbers person” keep you from essential information about your business.
Without starting to build the habit of collecting & analyzing your numbers, you’re not going to have it.
You’ll be left floundering in your business & wondering what on earth you should try next or how you will possibly make it to 5K months.
Take the first step.
Sit down with your goals to uncover the number that matters & write down your steps to collect that number consistently.
In no time, every decision will feel like a no-brainer & you’ll be closing in on those 5K months that were once only a dream.
Here’s How I Can Help
Sometimes you need a little backup. I’ve got you! 👇
📌 Totally new?
Grab my free Questions & Numbers guide.
It links common business questions with the numbers you need to answer them.
📌 Want to build your own system?
Join The Numbers Club!
It’s my monthly membership that helps you turn data into your business’s secret weapon (with support from me every step of the way).
📌 Ready to hand it off completely?
Bring me on as a Data Specialist.
I’ll build a custom system that handles the collection & analysis for you, so you can focus on what you do best.