Divide and Conquer: Why You Should Separate Your Personal and Business Funds Many entrepreneurs struggle to separate the value of their business from their own net worth (and self-worth).

Ten years ago, Cody Limbaugh made the leap from personal trainer to business owner, starting a small gym in Portland, Ore. Ever since, his financial and emotional well-being have been tied to the performance of his business.

"I get six sign-ups one week and feel on top of the world," says Limbaugh, affiliate owner of CrossFit Excellence. "I pay the bills. I go to happy hour with friends. But the next week, the landlord raises the rent on me. It's demoralizing."

Sound familiar? I know many entrepreneurs who struggle to separate the value of their business from their own net worth (and self-worth). It's part of the entrepreneurial mindset. As business owners, your identity is wrapped up in your work, almost by definition. That's a good thing—nobody cares more about the business than you do—but when it comes to your money, this relationship isn't always sustainable or financially healthy.