Profit ≠ Success: Why a ‘Triple Bottom Line’ Shows the Full Picture
3 minute read
Running a business today means more than just making money. As Canadian entrepreneurs, we have a chance to grow our businesses in a way that reflects our values—not just what we offer, but how we work and who we serve.
That’s where the Triple Bottom Line comes in. It’s a framework that measures success across three areas—People, Planet, and Profit—so your growth can be profitable, sustainable, and impactful.
The Three Bottom Lines, Applied
1. People
Are we showing up for our teams, our clients, and our communities? That might look like codifying ethical service standards, inclusive communication practices, or supporting local causes that you and your staff care about.
2. Planet
Environmentally conscious business practices aren’t about doing everything all at once—they’re about doing what you can, where you can, and building from there.
3. Profit
Profit is a wonderful thing. It’s what allows you to pay yourself, support your team, invest in better tools, and keep showing up for your clients and community. But profit alone isn’t the goal—profit with purpose is.
Here’s what that can look like in practice:
Reworking your pricing structure so it truly reflects the value of your work.
Automating key workflows with new technologies to free up time for philanthropic work, or space to refocus.
Choosing a growth strategy that aligns with you—not someone else's version of success.
And yes, look for the best tax solutions, but as Shark Tank’s Mark Cuban suggests, make that payment proudly—because you’re helping build Canada and defend its future.
Why This Matters at Fletcher Consulting
At Fletcher Consulting, the Triple Bottom Line is embedded in how I work, who I work with, and what I aim to build.
I started this business after years in non-profit leadership and an education focused on building and leading sustainable businesses.
Whether I’m designing your website, cleaning up your digital tools, or helping you position your brand in a more substantial way, the goal isn’t just to make you look good—it’s to help you lead with integrity.
And you don’t need a B Corp certification or comprehensive sustainability report to start operating with a Triple Bottom Line (although we’re happy to get you there). You just need to start asking the right questions:
Does your online presence reflect the values you stand for?
Are your systems supporting your team, your clients, and the planet?
Are you building something that grows responsibly—not just rapidly—and with your community in mind?
If this all sounds like you, reach out and let’s build something meaningful—together.
All the best,
Nathan Fletcher-Szierer
Founder, Fletcher Consulting
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At Fletcher Consulting, we’re all about informed decision making. This post is informed by: