The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on 11 June 2026 and, as always, we’ll be getting involved at GreenStones with our office sweepstake.
It’s become a bit of a tradition.
But we don’t just pick teams and leave it there. We like to mix things up – think fastest red card, most goals conceded in the first group games or the team that surprises everyone (for better or worse). It’s a bit of fun, a bit of competition and a good excuse for the team to connect.
And that’s where it starts to link back to business.
What Actually Makes a Great Team?
When you watch the World Cup, it’s easy to focus on the standout players.
But the teams that go far aren’t just talented – they’re built on something deeper.
They:
- Help each other when things go wrong.
- Share information quickly and clearly.
- Stay balanced, even under pressure.
- Have honest conversations (even when it’s uncomfortable).
- And they’re not afraid to make big decisions when it counts.
Sound familiar?
That’s because those same principles sit at the heart of how we work at GreenStones.
In fact, our whole approach is built around inspiring, challenging and supporting each other and our customers to be the best they want to be.
It’s Not Just About the Numbers
A lot of businesses think accountancy is just about getting the numbers right.
That’s like thinking football is just about scoring goals.
The reality? The numbers are only part of the picture.
What really matters is:
- Are you spotting problems early?
- Are you making decisions with confidence?
- Are you clear on where you’re heading next?
That’s where having the right team around you makes all the difference.
Where Xero Fits In
This actually reminded us of a blog we wrote back in July 2025, where we linked the Lionesses with Xero and explored what strong teams can teach us about running a business. You can read it here:
The key takeaway still stands.
Xero gives you visibility. It shows you what’s happening in real time, so you’re not making decisions in the dark.
But just like in football, having a clear view of the pitch doesn’t guarantee a result.
You still need people who:
- Know what to look for.
- Share insights at the right time.
- And aren’t afraid to challenge you when needed.
The Difference Between an Accountant and a Team
This is where a lot of businesses start to feel unsupported.
If you only hear from your accountant once a year, it’s hard to feel like they’re really part of your business journey.
A finance team should:
- Help each other (and you) when things get tricky.
- Share relevant knowledge so you’re never guessing.
- Keep things balanced so you’re not overwhelmed.
- Be honest with you, even when it’s not the easy option.
- And be brave enough to suggest better ways of doing things.
That’s how better decisions get made.
And ultimately, that’s how businesses grow.
What This Means for Your Business
So, what does all of this actually mean for your business?
It’s not just about having the right tools or even the right numbers.
It’s about having the right people around you. The ones who support you when things get tough, challenge you when something doesn’t look right and help you make better decisions as you go.
While all of that might sound serious, we’re not forgetting the fun side.
The GreenStones sweepstake is back and we’ll be tracking all the highs, lows and unexpected moments along the way.
Because whether it’s football or business, it’s often those small moments that bring people together and build stronger teams.
So, who are you backing this summer?