Meet Kirsti Lindgren | ONE9 Group, Inc President & Accountant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kirsti Lindgren and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kirsti, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own business really stemmed from striving to obtain ultimate autonomy in all professional aspects that align with my morals and values. I knew at a very young age that I wanted to be an accountant. I spent a total of seven years obtaining higher education and I have just completed the eighth year in my career. During the educational process I favored online and remote learning as much as my curriculum would allow. Having that option provided for a better work/education life balance. I quickly learned that I craved those same goals when it came to my career life. I didn’t want to be a “slave to the desk.” I felt trapped and limited, I was not performing my best, I didn’t feel creative, and I lacked energy and interest as well. I had no control over my working environment and I was unable to make progress on taking my career to the next level. In addition, I didn’t feel like I was giving my clients the best version of me – which is a top priority. I deeply disliked how I was representing myself as a professional. I was embarrassed to network with my peers because I knew the place I was in, was not how I wanted to be associated. The reputation I am striving for was suffering in a major way. Almost to the point where I thought I didn’t like my career choice. I gained knowledge and experience, but with those limitations, I knew that couldn’t be the end for me. I wanted to be able to provide my clients with a priceless and excellent experience: from streamlined communication to the efficiency of utilizing technology, having my direct and undivided attention during their interactions with me. A primary goal was to provide them with a beautiful, happy, healthy environment filled with great energy when we meet. I love what I do, I did not like how I was doing it. I knew the only answer was to start my own business.

What should our readers know about your business?
I run a small accounting/tax practice that specializes in individual and small business services. Currently, I manage everything on my own. The number one complaint I’ve heard from new clients is that they’ve felt “neglected” by their former accountant. What set’s me apart is the direct connection my clients have to me. I pride myself on the relationships I’ve built with them. They trust me, and to me, that means the world. I am most excited about completing my last two CPA exams this year. Having my Certified Public Accountant License will solidify my professional growth and take me to the next level. Placing myself in a position to expand, create a team, and open new avenues of opportunity, is a priority. Getting to where I am today business-wise has not been easy by any means. Jumping off the edge into the unknown is probably one of the scariest yet rewarding things I’ve done in my lifetime. Mastering adaptability has been the primary source of overcoming challenges. I’ve had to change my path, timeline, and goals more than I would like to admit. With that, have come endless lessons. One of the biggest has been learning to be realistic with my goals and having to accept that our most significant successes come from our biggest failures. What is important is that we get back up, keep trying until we get it right, and never stop learning.
I would love for the world to know that my brand operates to achieve one of the highest levels of integrity. I also think it is important to note that: nothing is impossible, even when outside influences try to convince you otherwise. “Cheating the grind” won’t get you far but with hard work, dedication, and persistence – anything is possible.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting the area and I wanted to show them the best time ever during a weeklong trip I would shoot for a relaxing day at the beach to start. Most likely at Dania Beach in Broward County for a quiet, laid-back vibe. We would have a few drinks and lunch at Quarterdeck overlooking the beach views. I would take them to check out Hollywood Beach, Ft Lauderdale beach, and possibly South beach. Those areas have more options for dining, shopping, and soaking up more sunshine. Las Olas and Wynwood would be on our list of locations to check out for night life vibes. Breakfast at Bake Shack in Dania Beach would be a mandatory stop to visit a local favorite. I love a low-key spot with good music so if there were time to fit in a brunch at BarRita or Tap42 for chicken and waffles, that would be great!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate my shoutout to my support system. The road to success is more like a never-ending rollercoaster of one challenge after another. My two children, close family, and close friends have had such a huge impact. Without their love, support, encouragement, guidance, advice, reassurance, patience, and understanding, it would have been extremely difficult to get here. Each one of them has contributed in some way, shape, or form and they continue to do so. I truly believe that “it takes a village.” The roles they’ve played in my journey are priceless. I feel like I could never thank them enough. I would also like to acknowledge my clients for their continued support, patience, understanding, loyalty, confidence, and trust in me.

Website: https://www.one9groupinc.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/one9groupinc?utm_medium=copy_link

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/kirsti-lindgren-549b76148

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/one9groupinc/

Other: Email: Info@ONE9GroupInc.com

Image Credits
Yanelis Torres Photography