An experienced entrepreneur and CFO is encouraging a focus on process rather than panic during challenging times.
Missoula, Montana, July 4, 2025 – William Clawson, the founder and CEO of Endeavor Financial Insights, is urging small business owners nationwide to take control of their financial destinies by working smarter, not harder.
“Too many business owners simply react,” Clawson stated. “They get bogged down in daily tasks and lack the time for forward-thinking. That’s where problems begin.”
Drawing on 30 years of business and consulting experience, Clawson understands the challenges of managing operations, payroll, and growth simultaneously. As a former CEO in the building industry who transitioned to financial strategy, he now assists over 160 clients in improving their tax outcomes and establishing consistent systems.
His central message revolves around The First Domino–the initial, minimal action that simplifies subsequent tasks. “For us, it’s making five key connections each week. It’s straightforward. Achieving that sets everything else in motion,” Clawson explained.
The Case for System Over Hustle
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, over 20% of small businesses fail within their first year, and almost 50% within five years, frequently due to inadequate financial planning and a lack of systems.
“Initially, I managed everything mentally,” Clawson admitted. “That’s feasible only until things become overwhelming. System failures lead to chaos.”
He now strongly supports process planning tools such as the “12 Week Year,” KPI dashboards, and his firm’s distinctive two-page strategic plan.
“Each week, we review it together. It’s basic, but it maintains our focus. Without tracking, there’s no improvement,” Clawson said.
A Call to Build, Not Just React
Clawson isn’t soliciting donations or votes. He’s encouraging entrepreneurs to take charge of their success by creating structure, monitoring metrics, and setting priorities.
“Ask yourself: What is the single action I can take daily that propels everything else forward?” he said. “That’s your First Domino.”
He advises business owners to:
- Establish simple, weekly routines
- Track vital metrics, beyond just revenue
- Prioritize service before sales, focusing on lasting value
- Ensure systems are visible and repeatable, especially under pressure
An Inside Look at What Works
Clawson’s team employs what they jokingly call “The Bad Plan,” a highly organized, straightforward framework for sales and client service. It includes referral networks (termed “Lumberjacks”), local Catalyst Events, and regular touchpoints.
“It’s not elaborate, but it’s effective because of our consistency,” he stated.
The results are evident: Endeavor Financial Insights saved clients over $3.5 million in taxes within a year by concentrating on sophisticated strategy, not just compliance.
Remember Why You Started
Despite his achievements, Clawson says he’s driven not by money or growth, but by responsibility.
“I recall the Billy Joel lyric: ‘I’ve got people back on land who count on me,'” he said. “That’s why I remain committed.”
Take Action
Business owners don’t have to wait for a crisis to start planning. They can:
- Identify their “First Domino”
- Develop a 2-page plan for weekly review
- Seek support from peers, mentors, or groups like the 3to5 Club
- Stop trying to keep everything in their head
“Begin with a single repeatable system. Make it visible. Then expand from there,” Clawson suggested.
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