Month: September 2024

People ask me all the time how I come up with topics for this podcast. You know, it’s typically what I notice for myself and for my coaching clients. After all, if I’m surrounded by accountants experiencing a particular issue, then you all might be experiencing it as well, right?

As we all know, as an accountant, being reliable and dependable is crucial. Whether you’re working within a company or running your own practice, the ability to deliver accurate and timely work is what builds your reputation.

When colleagues, managers, or clients know they can count on you, it can open doors to promotions, raises, and new opportunities. It feels great to be seen as the person who gets things done, doesn’t it?

However, there’s a significant downside to this. If you find yourself saying yes to every request, every project, or every little favor, you might be setting yourself up for trouble.

It might seem like a smart strategy at first—you’re the go-to person, the one who can handle anything. But… have you ever stopped to think about what this constant agreeing is doing to you?

For example, let’s say you’re already swamped with your workload, and then your manager asks if you can take on an additional project with a tight deadline. You know it’s going to be tough, but you say yes because you want to prove you can handle it.

Or what about when a client calls you last minute needing urgent financial statements for a refinancing deal that they’ve known about for months. You’ve got a busy day ahead, but you don’t want to let them down, so you say yes.

The question is, how does it feel when you constantly agree to take on more than you can comfortably handle? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, or even resentful?

If so, you’re not alone. The desire to be helpful and dependable can sometimes lead you to overcommit, leaving you feeling pulled in too many directions. This is particularly challenging if you’re balancing professional responsibilities with personal life, like taking care of your family.

So, why is it so hard to say no? Is it because you want to please others and avoid disappointing them? Or is it fear—fear of not being liked, valued, or even missing out on opportunities?

The issue is that constantly saying yes can lead to burnout, mistakes, and a feeling of being unappreciated. Have you noticed these signs in your own life? 

Maybe you’ve found yourself waking up early or staying up late, just trying to get everything done. Or you may have felt that there’s not enough time in the day to meet everyone’s demands and still take care of yourself.

It’s important to recognize that pushing back and setting boundaries isn’t about being difficult or uncooperative. It’s about managing your workload in a sustainable way and maintaining your well-being.

Think about it this way: If you’re always overloaded, can you truly perform at your best? Are you able to give your full attention and energy to each task? I promise that by learning to push back effectively, you can protect your time, reduce your stress, and still be a reliable and valuable professional.

But what happens when you constantly say yes, even when it stretches you too thin? Let’s talk about the consequences of always agreeing to every request.

The Consequences of Always Saying Yes

If you tend to say yes to every request, it might seem like the right thing to do. You’re helpful, dependable, and everyone appreciates you. But have you ever considered the toll this constant agreement takes on you?

As I mentioned before, there’s increased stress and burnout. Unfortunately, when you continually take on more than you can handle, stress becomes a constant companion. The issue is that, whether you want to admit it or not, this constant state of pressure isn’t sustainable. Over time, it can lead to burnout—or worse.

Unfortunately, burnout doesn’t just hit you at work; it sneaks into every part of your life, draining your energy and joy. Ever felt so overwhelmed that even the smallest tasks feel impossible? That’s burnout knocking at your door.

Another consequence of always saying yes is becoming a “dumping ground” for work. As an accountant, you probably pride yourself on your reliability. But have you noticed how this can backfire when colleagues, managers, or clients start seeing you as the go-to person for every task?

Think about it for a second: Are you the one who gets handed the last-minute projects or the tedious tasks that others don’t want to do? Are you considered the most reliable person, so everyone seems to dump things in your lap?

This isn’t just about workload—it’s about respect and recognition. When you become the “dumping ground” for work, it’s easy to feel undervalued and taken for granted. You might start to wonder if your skills and efforts are truly appreciated, or if you’re just being used because you never say no.

Here’s the thing: it’s not just your professional life that suffers when you say yes to everything. Your personal life takes a hit, too. Have you found yourself sacrificing family time, personal hobbies, or even basic self-care to keep up with work demands?

For example, did you purchase that gym membership in January with all good intentions but you’ve allowed other people to be in control of your time in and out of work?

The truth is that balancing work and personal life as an accountant is challenging enough without the added pressure of overcommitment. When you’re always saying yes, something has to give. Unfortunately, it’s often your personal life that gets pushed to the side.

You might miss out on important family events, or you might feel too exhausted to enjoy the time you do have at home. This imbalance can strain relationships and leave you feeling isolated and unhappy.

For example, if you have people in your life who complain about not spending enough time together, it can add to your stress and guilt, making you feel like you’re constantly letting someone down. This can create a vicious cycle where you’re stretched too thin at work, yet feel like you’re failing in your personal life as well. 

If you can relate, these consequences are not unique to you. But it’s important to recognize these signs and understand that pushing back doesn’t mean you’re failing; it means you’re setting healthy boundaries to protect yourself and your well-being. 

If you can relate to any of the consequences I’ve shared it’s time to take a step back and consider how you can start saying no in a way that benefits both your professional and personal life. Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of yourself ensures that you can continue to be reliable and effective in the long run.

Now that we’ve looked at the toll that overcommitting can take, it’s important to understand why saying no is so difficult. The answer lies within your brain.

Your Brain’s Role in Pushing Back

Understanding why it’s so hard to say no can make pushing back easier. It all starts with how your brain works.

Have you ever felt a tight feeling in your stomach or guilt just thinking about saying no? That’s your brain reacting. When you think about turning down a request, your brain triggers a mix of emotions.

You might worry about upsetting someone, damaging a relationship, or getting rejected. These fears make saying no feel really tough. But why does such a simple word seem so heavy?

The truth is, the word “no” has a strong effect on the brain. If we scanned your brain and flashed the word “no,” even for less than a second, it would trigger a release of stress hormones.

This reaction messes with how your brain normally works, making it harder to think clearly, reason, and communicate. Surprising, right? It shows just how powerful the word “no” can be.

When you hear or say “no,” your brain reacts as if it’s facing danger. It releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

These hormones are helpful in real danger but not when you’re simply trying to manage your time. This reaction makes it harder to think clearly, stay calm, and respond in a helpful way.

Think about how a toddler reacts when told “no”—crying, tantrums, the whole meltdown. It’s extreme, but it’s their brain flooding with stress, just like adults experience.

Even though you might not throw a tantrum, the stress inside can feel intense. Knowing this can help you understand why saying no feels like a challenge.

When your brain hears “no,” it goes into defense mode. It starts building arguments, trying to convince you or the other person to say yes.

This defensive mindset can make communication hard. Instead of working together to find a solution, both sides might end up in a back-and-forth argument.

Have you ever been in a heated conversation, just waiting for your turn to speak without really listening? That’s your brain’s defense mechanisms kicking in.

These stress hormones also affect how you think. When you’re stressed, the part of your brain that handles decision-making doesn’t work as well.

This makes it harder to weigh your options, think about the consequences, or communicate effectively. Have you ever agreed to something under pressure and regretted it later? That’s your stressed brain at work.

For accountants, this stress response can be a real issue. When facing a big request or tight deadline, your brain might treat it like a life-or-death situation.

This can lead to bad decisions, poor communication, and more stress. It’s important to recognize when this reaction happens and learn how to handle it.

By understanding these brain processes, you’ll see why pushing back is so hard—and why it’s crucial to approach it in a smart way. By accepting how powerful “no” can be, you can start to manage requests and set boundaries in a healthier way.

Now let’s dive into a method that can help you push back effectively.

The Best Method for Pushing Back

Now that we know why saying no can be tough, let’s talk about a way to push back that makes handling requests easier. I want to introduce you to the “Yes…AND…” method. It’s a simple but powerful way to set boundaries without causing conflict.

The “Yes…AND…” method helps you agree to a request while also making sure your needs are met. Instead of just saying no, which can create stress, you say yes and then add your own conditions with an and.

In other words, this method keeps the conversation open instead of shutting it down.

So, why does this work so well? It has to do with how our brains react to yes and no.

When someone hears yes, their brain feels calm and understood. By starting with yes, you show that you’re willing to help and that you respect the other person’s request.

The key is adding the “and.” That’s where you bring in your needs and limits.

Here’s a simple example – If your boss asks you to take on an extra project when you’re already at full capacity, you could say, “Yes, AND I can start working on it next week once I’ve finished my current deadlines.”

This response sets a clear boundary that respects your workload while still offering help within a reasonable timeframe.

By adding an and, you don’t reject the request, but you also don’t overcommit yourself. This creates a conversation where both sides can talk and find a solution that works for everyone. It helps avoid the stress and conflict that can come with saying no.

Here’s how the “Yes…AND…” method can make things better:

• Reduces Stress: By not saying no right away, you’re less likely to stress yourself or the other person. The conversation stays calm and productive.
  
• Encourages Open Communication: Starting with yes shows you’re open to talking. The “AND” invites the other person to see your side and work together.
  
• Builds Stronger Relationships: This method shows respect for both your needs and theirs. It builds trust and shows you’re willing to compromise.
  
• Empowers You: The “Yes…AND…” method helps you set boundaries without feeling guilty. You can manage your work and personal life better.
  
• Promotes Problem-Solving: This approach encourages both sides to think of creative solutions. It turns conflict into teamwork.
  

Think about a time when you felt overwhelmed by a request. How could the conversation have gone differently if you had used the “Yes…AND…” method? Instead of feeling pressured, you could have opened up a conversation that respected both your needs and the other person’s.

When it’s challenging to say no, using the “Yes…AND…” method helps you manage requests in a balanced way. It’s not about saying no all the time; it’s about saying yes in a way that works for you too.

This method lets you stay reliable without sacrificing your well-being. Next time someone makes a tough request, try the “Yes…AND…” method and see how it changes the conversation.

Practical Examples Using The Method

Now that we’ve gone over the “Yes…AND…” method, let’s look at some real-life examples of how you can use it.

At Home: Imagine you’re making dinner, and your child asks for candy. Your first thought might be to say no so they don’t ruin their appetite, but that could lead to a tantrum and a stressful evening.

Instead, try the “Yes…AND…” method: “Yes, you can have some candy AND after we finish dinner, you can pick one out.” This way, your child feels heard, and you keep things calm by setting a condition that works for both of you.

At Work: Scheduling with clients can be tricky. Suppose a client wants a meeting outside your regular hours.

Instead of saying no right away, you could say, “Yes, I’m available for a meeting AND I have openings tomorrow afternoon or Friday morning. Which time works best for you?” This shows you’re willing to help while also protecting your time.

With Clients: Managing expectations when you’re fully booked can be tough.

If a client wants to hire you but your schedule is full, instead of turning them away, you could say, “Yes, I’d love to work with you AND I can add you to my waitlist and let you know as soon as I have an opening. In the meantime, let’s discuss your needs so I’m ready when the time comes.” This way, you leave a good impression and keep future opportunities open.

In Personal Life: Handling requests from your spouse without causing tension is important for keeping a healthy relationship.

If your spouse asks you to pick up their dry cleaning but you’re already busy, you might say, “Yes, I can help with that AND the best time for me is Friday at 4 pm. Does that work for you?” This shows you’re willing to help while clearly stating your limits, so you don’t overcommit.

These examples show how the “Yes…AND…” method helps you manage requests without feeling overwhelmed. It lets you stay reliable and professional while also taking care of your own needs.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Pushing Back With The “Yes…AND…” Method

I want to share how I’ve used the “Yes…AND…” method in my own career. While I’m proud of being known for my strong work ethic, I was becoming the go-to person for every urgent project.

The constant demands were wearing me down, and I started feeling exhausted and unappreciated.

After learning about the “Yes…AND…” method, I decided to give it a try. Instead of always saying yes and giving up my personal time, I responded with, “Yes, I can help with this project AND I’ll need to adjust the deadline to make sure it’s done right. I’ll need to schedule it for early next week”

To my surprise, the person agreed. We settled on a new deadline that allowed me to get the work done without overwhelming myself.

By starting with a yes, I showed I was willing to help, and by adding the and, I set a boundary to protect my time.

Another time, a colleague asked me to review a report at the last minute. I said, “Yes, I can review the report AND I’ll have it back to you by Thursday afternoon.”

The colleague pushed back a little, but since I was offering help on my terms, they realized it was a win/win.

As you can see, it might feel uncomfortable at first to push back, but you don’t have to be a doormat. By using the “Yes…AND…” method, you can get things done on your terms.   

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The “Yes…AND…” method is a great way to set boundaries without causing conflict. By starting with a yes and then adding your own conditions with an and, you create a conversation that respects both your needs and the other person’s.

This method helps lower stress, improves communication, and protects your well-being while still allowing you to be seen as reliable and dependable.

So, the next time you face a tough request, ask yourself: “How can I use the ‘Yes…AND…’ method to acknowledge this request while also setting a boundary that protects my time and well-being?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed when you need to push back.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply, whether it’s at work or at home.

If you are struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can simply go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me.

And make sure you check back each week as I help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Make sure you go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

Also, I would appreciate it if you could get the word out to other accountants about this podcast.  The more accountants find out about it, the more we can begin to change the narrative in the accounting profession.

The truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.

This is a subject that I’ve done a lot of research on and have incorporated into my own life as well as teaching my coaching clients how to do.  I believe it’s one of the keys to better time management and having a sustainable accounting career.

So let me start by asking, have you ever found yourself juggling tasks at work and home? You finish one project, and before you know it, another one comes your way.

At the same time, you’re juggling personal responsibilities—family events, social commitments, and maybe even a new hobby you’re trying to dive into. It all starts with the best of intentions, but soon enough, that initial thrill fades, and you’re left feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

Many of us feel this way. We’re constantly bombarded with new demands, and we often think, ‘I can handle this,’ until we’re overwhelmed. What once seemed doable quickly turns into a scramble just to keep up.

So, why do we do this to ourselves? Often, it feels like we’re in a race to prove our worth or to make sure we’re seizing every opportunity. At work, we might say yes to every new project or training course that comes our way. In our personal lives, it can mean overloading our schedules with family activities, volunteering, or extra chores at home.

This juggling act leads to burnout. Instead of feeling accomplished, we feel stretched too thin and struggle to manage everything. We lose sight of what truly matters.

In this episode, we’re going to dig into why we’re so prone to overcommitting and how this habit affects our lives. We’ll also explore some fascinating insights from brain science that explain why trying to focus on too many things at once can actually work against us.

Understanding these concepts will show you how focusing on fewer priorities can make a big difference, helping you achieve more with less stress.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly on a treadmill, trying to keep up with a never-ending list of tasks, you’re definitely not alone. We’re about to uncover why we behave this way and look at practical ways to regain control and find a better balance.

Now that I’ve set the stage, let’s dive into why we find ourselves taking on so much in the first place. What drives us to overload our plates with tasks, both at work and at home?

Why We Try to Do Too Much

You know how it feels when you’ve got a million things on your plate and you just can’t say no? It’s like every time you turn around, there’s another opportunity or request. You might think, “I can handle it,” but then, before you know it, you’re buried in tasks and feeling completely overwhelmed.

Why do we do this? It’s not just about ambition or poor time management. There are deeper reasons we overcommit.

First off, there’s this pressure we feel from society. Everywhere you look, there are messages about being successful and having it all—whether it’s at work, in your personal life, or even how you manage your home. 

It seems like we’re all expected to juggle career achievements, personal development, and an exciting social life, all while looking flawless. It’s no wonder we end up taking on too much!

Then there’s the issue of high expectations. Sometimes, these expectations come from ourselves. 

We set the bar so high that anything less feels like a failure. It’s like we have this internal scoreboard constantly ticking away, and we’re always trying to win. It’s exhausting trying to meet every single one of those expectations, but we push ourselves because we don’t want to fall short.

Another reason we end up overcommitting is our desire to excel in every area of life. We think that if we take on more, we’ll achieve more. 

Maybe we want to be the top performer at work, the perfect parent, and still have time for a side project or two. It’s easy to get caught up in wanting to be good at everything, but that often means we spread ourselves too thin.

And let’s not forget about the fear of missing out. Sometimes we take on more because we’re afraid of missing out on opportunities. 

We worry that if we say no, we’ll miss something important or lose our edge. So, we say yes to everything, even when we know deep down that we might not have the time or energy to handle it all.

Now, this doesn’t mean that wanting to do well or achieve great things is a bad thing. It’s actually a sign of your ambition and drive. But understanding why we tend to overcommit can help us make better choices about what to take on and what to let go of.

Next, we’ll explore how our brains handle focus and why concentrating on fewer things is key to getting more done. It’s about finding a balance that leaves you feeling accomplished, not overwhelmed.

Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening in our brains when we try to do it all.

The Brain Science Behind Focus

Let’s start by talking about why juggling too many things at once can be a real productivity killer. You might have heard of cognitive overload and decision fatigue—these aren’t just fancy terms; they’re actual brain phenomena that explain why focusing on too many tasks can backfire.

Imagine your brain as a computer. When you have too many tabs open, everything slows down, right? That’s what happens when we try to multitask. 

Our brains are pretty amazing, but they’re not built for handling a million things at once. When we overload them with too many tasks, we hit cognitive overload. 

This is where our brain gets overwhelmed because it’s trying to process too much information at once. Just like a computer with too many programs running, our brain starts to slow down and can’t function as efficiently.

Then there’s decision fatigue. This is when the more decisions you make, the harder it becomes to make good ones. 

Have you ever had a day where you’ve made so many choices that by the end, you just don’t have the energy to decide what to have for dinner? That’s decision fatigue in action. 

When you’re trying to handle a lot of different tasks, your brain uses up a lot of mental energy making decisions. Over time, this makes it harder to focus and make smart choices.

Think about when you’re working on a big project at work. If you’re constantly switching between that and checking emails, answering calls, and handling other interruptions, your brain is having to juggle all these tasks. 

It’s like trying to read a book while someone keeps interrupting you with questions. You end up losing track of what you were reading, and nothing really gets done well.

When you narrow your focus to one thing at a time, your brain can really get into a flow state. This is where you’re deeply engaged and working at your best. 

You’re not wasting energy switching gears or trying to remember what you were doing. Instead, you’re concentrating on one task and getting it done efficiently.

Understanding this helps you see why focusing on fewer things at a time can actually boost your productivity. It’s not just about being busy; it’s about being smart with your time and energy. 

By recognizing how cognitive overload and decision fatigue affect your brain, you can start making changes that help you manage your tasks more effectively and reduce stress.

So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed with everything on your plate, remember that your brain works best when you give it a chance to focus. Streamlining your tasks and giving yourself permission to focus on fewer things at a time isn’t just good for your sanity; it’s good for your productivity, too.

Now that we understand how our brains handle focus, it’s time to explore how good time management practices can make focusing on fewer tasks more achievable.

The Role of Time Management in Effective Focus

Let’s talk about how managing your time well can actually make focusing on fewer tasks a lot easier. Think of time management like your trusty toolbox for getting things done. With the right tools, you can handle your tasks more effectively and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

First up, let’s talk about time blocking. This is creating a schedule for your day where you set aside specific chunks of time for different tasks. 

Imagine it as making reservations on your calendar just for working on one project. Instead of jumping between tasks all day, you’re giving your brain a chance to zero in on one thing at a time. 

It’s like setting up a “do not disturb” zone for your work. When you’re in a time block, you’re focused and in the zone, making it easier to get things done without constantly switching gears.

Next, setting boundaries is another crucial part of time management. This means defining clear limits for when and where you’ll handle certain tasks. 

For example, you might decide to answer emails only during specific times of the day. This helps keep those tasks from spilling over into your focused work time. 

By setting boundaries, you’re telling yourself and others when it’s time to focus and when it’s okay to step away and handle other things.

Good time management also means giving yourself breaks and not overloading your schedule. When you plan your time wisely, you’re not cramming too many tasks into a single day. 

Instead, you’re allowing space for rest and recovery, which is key for maintaining your focus and productivity.

By using time blocking and setting clear boundaries, you’re not just managing your time better; you’re actually setting yourself up for success. It’s like creating a structured plan that helps you focus on fewer tasks at once, making it easier to complete them efficiently. 

And when you’re able to focus better, you’re not just getting more done; you’re also reducing stress and avoiding burnout.

So, if you’re feeling like you’re constantly racing against the clock, try incorporating some time management practices into your routine. It’s all about making your time work for you, so you can focus on what really matters and get things done without the stress.

But, how do we put all of this into practice? Let’s explore some strategies to help you achieve more by actually focusing on less.

How to Achieve More by Focusing on Less

It might sound counterintuitive, but narrowing your focus can lead to some pretty amazing benefits.  Before I explain how to achieve more by focusing on less, let me explain some of those benefits.

First off, think about how prioritizing works. When you choose a few key tasks to focus on, you’re giving yourself the chance to put your energy where it really counts. 

Instead of spreading yourself thin across a million different things, you’re honing in on what’s most important. This means you’re not just ticking off boxes—you’re making real progress on the things that matter most.

Imagine you’re working on a big client presentation that includes research, data analysis, and slide creation. Trying to juggle all these tasks at once can quickly become overwhelming. Instead, break it down into chunks. 

Spend one focused block of time just on research, and then tackle data analysis the next day. By concentrating on one part at a time, you’ll make more progress and ensure each piece of your presentation is top-notch. 

Think about how focusing on fewer tasks can really cut down on stress. Imagine your to-do list has a report to prepare, a team meeting to organize, and a project proposal to finish. Trying to tackle all of these at once can feel like a lot to handle. Instead, try setting aside specific days for each task—like Monday for the report and Tuesday for the meeting. 

This way, you’re giving yourself space to dive deep into one thing at a time, which can make everything feel less overwhelming. Not only does this approach help lower your stress, but it also gives your brain a chance to recharge between tasks. 

You also find that when you focus on one thing at a time, the quality of your work improves, and you feel more relaxed overall.

Plus, there’s a big bonus when it comes to results. Concentrating on fewer tasks means you can put more thought and effort into each one. This often leads to higher quality outcomes because you’re not rushed or distracted. 

Think of it like this: it’s better to do a few things really well than to do a bunch of things halfway. When you prioritize and focus, you’re setting yourself up to achieve better results in less time.

So, how can you put this into practice? Here are some suggestions:

• High Impact Tasks – Start by identifying the most high impact tasks on your list and calendar them to give them your full attention. It might mean saying no to some other things or delegating tasks to others. But by focusing on what truly matters, you’re not just getting things done—you’re doing them well.
  
• Create a Clutter-Free Workspace – Whether you’re working in the office or from home, keeping your workspace tidy and organized is key. In the office, make sure your desk is clear of unnecessary items to help you stay focused. If you’re working from home, set up a dedicated area—even if it’s just a small corner—and keep it free from distractions. A clutter-free environment helps reduce mental clutter too, signaling to your brain that it’s time to focus and get work done.
  
• Establish a Routine – Start your workday with a consistent ritual, such as a brief meditation, a cup of coffee, or reviewing your to-do list. This ritual signals to your brain that it’s time to shift into work mode. Having a routine helps create a predictable structure, which can enhance your focus and make it easier to transition into tasks.
  
• Minimize Distractions – Use apps like Freedom or Focus@Will to block distracting websites and manage notifications. This helps keep your attention on the task at hand.

Inform family members or colleagues of your focused work times and use do-not-disturb modes to prevent interruptions.

• Set Clear, Specific Goals – Break down your tasks into specific, actionable items. For instance, instead of “work on client project,” set a goal like “finish the client presentation slides by 2 PM.”  Clear goals provide direction and make it easier to stay on track, reducing the likelihood of getting sidetracked by less important tasks.
  
• Get Adequate Rest and Nutrition – Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and eat balanced meals throughout the day. This provides the necessary energy and mental clarity for effective focus.  Avoid excessive caffeine or sugary snacks that can lead to energy crashes and affect your concentration.
  
• Take Regular Breaks – Schedule short breaks into your workday, such as a 5-minute walk or some stretching exercises. Regular breaks help refresh your mind and prevent mental fatigue.  Taking breaks also helps maintain high levels of productivity and focus over longer periods, keeping you from feeling overwhelmed or burned out.

In the end, focusing on less isn’t about doing less work; it’s about working smarter. It’s about giving yourself the space to excel at the things that make the biggest difference. 

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, try narrowing your focus and see how it transforms your productivity and peace of mind. You might find that less really is more.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Learning To Achieve More By Focusing On Less

Let me share a story about a coaching client who learned how powerful it can be to focus on less—and ended up achieving more because of it.

One of my clients was drowning in work. He had multiple projects on his plate, endless meetings, and personal commitments that never seemed to end. No matter how hard he worked, everything felt chaotic, and he struggled to keep up. 

Deadlines were slipping, stress levels were through the roof, and it seemed like nothing was ever getting done the way it should.

When we started working together, the first thing we did was take a step back and look at everything he had going on. It was a lot. So, we decided to focus on the tasks that would have the biggest impact on his work. 

Instead of trying to do everything at once, we honed in on the projects that really mattered. He learned how to effectively time-block his calendar, where he dedicated specific hours of his day to these key tasks—no interruptions, no distractions.

Next, we mapped out a daily schedule that wasn’t just about work. We made sure to include break times too, so he wouldn’t burn out halfway through the day. We also worked on setting boundaries around his work hours and personal life. 

For example, he started checking emails only at certain times instead of constantly throughout the day. This simple change made a huge difference—it cut down distractions and let him dive deep into his most important work.

We even tackled his physical workspace. He cleared out the clutter and set up a dedicated spot where he could focus on one task at a time. This helped him shift into “focus mode” every time he sat down to work, making a big difference in his productivity.

The change was huge. He went from feeling completely overwhelmed to having a clear plan for each day. With fewer tasks to juggle, he found that he could complete his projects more efficiently and at a higher quality. 

Deadlines stopped being a source of stress, and he actually had more free time to enjoy his personal life. He was amazed at how much less stressed he felt, and he started to feel more in control and accomplished.

By zeroing in on what really mattered and using practical strategies like time-blocking and setting boundaries, he was able to achieve more without the constant stress. It was a game-changer, proving that focusing on less can help you achieve so much more.

Okay, now let’s wrap up with the key takeaway from everything we’ve discussed and a simple action step you can start implementing right away.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway here is that focusing on fewer tasks can actually lead to greater success and less stress. When you prioritize what’s truly important and give yourself the mental space to concentrate, you not only get more done, but you also do it better. 

By understanding why we overcommit and learning how to manage our time and focus more effectively, you can start to regain control and achieve more in a more balanced way.

For the upcoming week, ask yourself, “What’s one task or project that, if I focused on it fully, would make the biggest impact on my work or personal life?” Set aside dedicated time to tackle this priority and see how narrowing your focus can change your results.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the power of achieving more by focusing on less.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

As I share all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you are struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can simply go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me.

And make sure you check back each week as I help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Make sure you go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

Also, I would appreciate it if you could get the word out to other accountants about this podcast.  The more accountants find out about it, the more we can begin to change the narrative in the accounting profession.

The truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.

Today, I want to talk about something that can be uncomfortable for us as accountants—making mistakes. Mistakes happen, no matter how careful we are.

Think about the last mistake you made. How did it make you feel? Maybe you felt annoyed, disappointed, or even embarrassed. Maybe you kept thinking about it, wishing you could go back and fix it. This is normal, and you’re definitely not alone.

Even the people who seem upset or angry about your mistake have made their own at some point. The truth is, everyone makes mistakes. What really matters is how we deal with them.

As accountants, people expect us to be perfect with numbers, but we’re only human, and mistakes can happen. It’s important to face these mistakes because it helps us grow, both personally and professionally.

When we make a mistake, it can feel like the end of the world. We might worry about what will happen to our job, our reputation, or our relationships with clients and colleagues.

This fear can be overwhelming, leading to stress, anxiety, and feelings of failure. But it’s important to remember that making mistakes is part of life and can actually help us learn and get better.

By talking about our mistakes openly, we can get rid of the negative feelings that often come with them. This helps us approach our work with a healthier mindset, reducing the pressure to be perfect and creating a space where growth and learning are what really matter.

When we can admit our mistakes without fear, we become stronger and better at handling challenges in the future.

The truth is, understanding why we make mistakes can help us avoid them in the future. Whether it’s because we’re trying to do too many things at once, dealing with too much information, or just making a simple human error, figuring out what went wrong helps us prevent it next time.

This not only makes us better at our jobs but also gives us more confidence and peace of mind.

In today’s fast-paced world, especially in the accounting profession, mistakes can happen more often because of the high demands and pressures we face. Learning how to bounce back from these mistakes is essential for taking care of ourselves and continuing to do well in our careers.

Instead of letting mistakes define us, we can use them as steps to become better accountants and more well-rounded people.

In this episode, I want to help you bounce back from a mistake and stop letting it define who you are. I want to help you stop being so hard on yourself so that you can get back to being human, someone who sometimes makes mistakes.

Now that we know mistakes happen, let’s talk about why we feel so much pressure to be perfect as accountants.

Understanding the Pressure of Perfection

As accountants, we often set really high standards for ourselves. We’re trained to be detail-oriented, precise, and accurate, which is what makes us good at our jobs.

But this drive for perfection can be a lot to handle. How often do you feel like you have to get everything right, with no room for mistakes? This pressure can be overwhelming, and even a small mistake can feel like a big failure.

When you think about it, it’s not really our fault because the accounting profession demands perfection. The financial data we work with has to be accurate, follow the rules, and be reliable for making decisions.

The truth is, mistakes can have big consequences, from financial errors to legal problems, and this high-pressure environment makes us feel like we have to avoid mistakes at all costs. We may not have the same pressure as, say, a brain surgeon, but it can sometimes feel just as intense.

Unfortunately, when we do make a mistake, fear can take over. We might worry about what it means for our job, if our boss will be disappointed or angry, or if we could lose a client. What will our colleagues think?

These worries run through our minds, adding to our stress and anxiety. We worry about our job security, our relationships at work, and our reputation. The fear of being judged or seen as not good enough can be overwhelming.

The problem is that this pressure to be perfect doesn’t just stay at work; it spills into our personal lives too. We might feel like we’re always being watched and judged.

This can make personal mistakes feel even bigger. We worry about letting people down, being seen as less capable, or not living up to the idea of a flawless professional.

This constant pressure to be perfect can be exhausting. It can lead to burnout, stress, and always feeling like we’re not good enough.

I think this is why so many accountants feel like imposters—like they’re not really good enough, even when they are. When they can’t meet the impossible goal of being perfect, they start to doubt themselves.

But it’s important to remember that we’re human. Mistakes are a normal part of life, and they don’t define who we are or what we’re capable of.

The bottom line is, we need to give ourselves and others permission to be imperfect. It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to learn and grow from them.

When we do this, we not only feel better ourselves, but we also set a good example for others. After all, being able to bounce back from mistakes is just as important—maybe even more important—than never making mistakes at all.

Understanding the pressure we face is important, but it’s also key to know how our brains can lead us to make mistakes.

9 Reasons Why Mistakes Happen

We all know that mistakes are a part of life, but that doesn’t make it any easier to accept when we mess up. Today, I want to help you understand why mistakes happen so you can manage them better.

In Joseph T. Hallinan’s book Why We Make Mistakes, he explains nine common reasons why we slip up.

The first reason is that we see only what we expect to see. Our brains focus on what’s familiar or where we think something should be.

This narrow view can cause us to miss things. For example, a study found that airport baggage screeners often miss firearms because they don’t really expect to find them.

The second reason is that we struggle to remember random information compared to things that mean something to us. For instance, it’s much harder to memorize a list of random numbers than to remember your best friend’s phone number.

Our brains are wired to make connections, so remembering your friend’s number is easier because it’s linked to a meaningful relationship, while random numbers don’t have any context.

The third reason is that we make quick judgments based on surface details. For example, when hiring someone, you might judge them quickly based on their appearance or first impression during the interview.

This ability to make fast decisions has helped us survive, but it can also lead us to overlook someone who might not seem like a perfect fit at first but has the skills and experience needed for the job.

The fourth reason is that we simplify complex information to make it easier to understand. For example, when summarizing a financial report for a client, you might focus on the main points.

But in doing so, you might accidentally leave out important details, like specific expenses or income sources. This could lead to misunderstandings or wrong conclusions about the company’s financial health.

The fifth reason is that our brains look for patterns to save time and energy. For example, if you see the same expense every month on a financial statement, you might assume it’s a regular monthly bill.

But this pattern-seeking can cause us to miss details, like an unusual charge that looks similar but is actually a one-time mistake or even fraud.

The sixth reason is that we tend to remember our past actions more positively than they really were. For instance, you might recall managing a project with tight deadlines and little stress.

This rose-colored memory can make you underestimate the time and effort needed for a similar new project, leading to repeated mistakes like poor planning and not anticipating challenges.

The seventh reason is that we overestimate our ability to multitask. For example, you might think you can review a financial report while responding to client emails at the same time.

But our brains can only focus on one thing at a time, so trying to do too much at once can lead to missing important details or making mistakes in your emails.

The eighth reason is that we often misjudge how much we can get done in a short time versus a long time. For example, you might think you can finish a complex audit in just a few days, underestimating the time and effort it really takes.

This overestimation can lead to overcommitting and making mistakes, like rushing through the audit and missing important details, resulting in incomplete or incorrect work.

The ninth and final reason is that being overwhelmed with information and making too many decisions can lead to mistakes. For example, after spending hours going through emails, reports, and data, you might feel mentally drained.

In today’s world, we’re bombarded with information, and this overload can make us rush decisions or miss important details, like accidentally approving the wrong financial transaction or overlooking a critical compliance issue.

When you look at all these reasons, it’s clear that mistakes often happen simply because we have human brains. Being overwhelmed with responsibilities, especially as an accountant, makes mistakes even more likely.

Understanding why we make mistakes helps us see that they’re a normal part of life. When we recognize these patterns, we can be kinder to ourselves and learn to handle mistakes better.

Knowing why we make mistakes is one thing, but how our brains handle those mistakes is just as important.

The Brain’s Role in Dealing with a Mistake

Now that we’ve talked about why we make mistakes, let’s look at how our brains deal with them. When we make a mistake, our brain processes it and can cause us to feel some pretty strong emotions.

The moment we realize we’ve messed up, we might feel a rush of fear or shame. This reaction comes from the primitive part of our brain, which I’ve called the “Toddler brain” on the podcast before. It kicks into overdrive, making us feel like the mistake is a serious threat to our safety or well-being.

For example, imagine you just realized you sent an important email to the wrong client. The fear of what might happen and what others will think can be overwhelming. You might start worrying about your reputation and job security, making it hard to think clearly and respond calmly.

Our brain is known for expecting the worst, which is why this response can be so intense, causing us to feel embarrassed or even panicked. We might start worrying about the consequences and what others will think of us.

The good news is that our brains are also really good at learning and adapting, thanks to something called neuroplasticity, which is just a fancy way of saying that our brain can change and grow by making new connections.

This means that when we make a mistake, our brains can learn from it and change how we respond in the future. It’s like our brain has its own built-in way to help us grow and improve.

For example, if you’ve ever miscalculated taxes for a client, your brain can learn from that mistake, help you improve your methods, and avoid similar mistakes in the future. Over time, your brain gets better at recognizing and fixing potential errors.

To make the most of this ability, it’s important to practice self-compassion. Instead of beating ourselves up over mistakes, we can see them as valuable chances to learn.

By being kind to ourselves and remembering that everyone makes mistakes, we can take the emotional sting out of it and focus on what we can learn from the situation.

Seeing mistakes this way helps us realize they’re not failures, but steps on the path to growth. It’s about changing how we think of mistakes—not as something bad, but as a natural part of learning.

For example, after making a mistake in data entry, instead of harshly criticizing yourself, see it as a chance to review your processes and put in place double-check systems. This simple change in mindset can make a big difference in how we handle mistakes and bounce back from them.

So, the next time you make a mistake, remember that it’s your brain’s way of learning and adapting. Embrace the chance to grow, and give yourself the compassion and understanding you need to move forward.

By doing this, you’ll not only improve your skills and resilience but also create a healthier, more positive relationship with your work and yourself.

Now that we understand how our brains react, let’s dive into some simple ways to recover and move on from mistakes.

How to Bounce Back After Making a Mistake

We all know that stress and feeling overwhelmed can make us more likely to make mistakes. That’s why, as accountants, we need to cut ourselves some slack when we mess up. When we’re always trying to be perfect, despite being stressed out and overloaded, it’s no wonder we struggle with handling mistakes.

But there are some helpful strategies that can make it easier to bounce back after a mistake:

First, own the mistake. Admit it and fix it if you can. Taking responsibility is a good first step toward making things right. It shows honesty and helps rebuild trust with your colleagues or clients.

Next, correct the mistake if possible and learn from it. Figure out what went wrong and think about how to stop it from happening again. Taking action like this turns a bad experience into a chance to learn something valuable.

Finding humor in the situation can also lighten the load. This is one of my favorite strategies when I make a mistake. Sometimes, laughing at our mistakes helps us see them in perspective. It’s a reminder that we’re human and that everyone makes mistakes.

For example, I recently cc’d the wrong person on an email. It was a simple mistake, but at first, I felt that familiar rush of embarrassment. 

Instead of spiraling into stress, I decided to laugh it off. I reached out to the unintended recipient, explained the mix-up, and made sure the right person got the information they needed. By finding the humor in the situation, I was able to handle it more calmly and move on quickly.

Next, avoid beating yourself up and practice being kind to yourself. Remember that everyone makes mistakes. Treat yourself with the same understanding and patience you’d show a friend in the same situation.

Another helpful strategy is to judge others less harshly. When we let others be human and make mistakes without being too critical, we create a more compassionate environment for ourselves. This also helps build a more supportive and positive workplace.

Honestly, this might be the most important strategy because it sets the tone for how mistakes are handled in your work environment. When you practice kindness and understanding toward others, you not only make it easier for them to recover from their mistakes, but you also pave the way for that same understanding to be extended to you when you inevitably slip up.

The final strategy is to focus on having a supportive mindset. Show yourself the same kindness you’d show your kids when they mess up. Encourage yourself to learn and grow instead of getting stuck on the mistake.

Bottom line: Bouncing back from mistakes is about taking responsibility, learning, and being kind to yourself. By using these strategies, you can recover from mistakes more easily and build resilience while improving your overall well-being.

Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about how you handle imperfections that really matters.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Successfully Bouncing Back From A Mistake

Let me share a story about a coaching client who learned how to bounce back from a mistake.

This client was a CPA for over 20 years and always took pride in his accuracy and attention to detail. But during a particularly stressful tax season, he accidentally submitted a client’s tax return with a significant error.

Understandably, the client was upset, and the accountant was overwhelmed with guilt and anxiety. He worried about his professional reputation and feared he might lose the client.

As his confidence dropped, he became increasingly stressed, doubting his abilities and fearing he’d make more mistakes in the future.

After joining The Smarter Accountant Program, he learned to confront the mistake head-on. He admitted his error to the client, apologized sincerely, and worked quickly to correct the return.

With my support, he began to see the mistake as an opportunity to learn. He implemented new checks and balances in his workflow to prevent similar errors in the future.

He also started practicing self-compassion, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and that this didn’t define his professional worth. Over time, he regained his confidence and felt stronger.

By taking charge of his approach, his new mindset helped him manage stress better, leading to a stronger professional and personal life.

Again, we all make mistakes, but what really matters is how we bounce back from them.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Mistakes are a natural and inevitable part of life, especially in the demanding field of accounting. How we handle these mistakes is far more important than the mistakes themselves. 

By acknowledging our errors, taking responsibility, and learning from them, we can transform these experiences into valuable opportunities for growth. Practicing self-compassion and reframing mistakes as stepping stones rather than setbacks can significantly enhance our resilience and overall well-being.

The next time you make a mistake, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself: “What can I learn from this experience to improve my skills and processes? How can I use this mistake as an opportunity to grow rather than letting it negatively impact my self-worth?” 

This shift in perspective can help you bounce back more effectively and create a healthier approach to both your professional and personal life.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed bouncing back from a mistake.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

As I share all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you are struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can simply go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me.

And make sure you check back each week as I help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Make sure you go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

Also, I would appreciate it if you could get the word out to other accountants about this podcast.  The more accountants find out about it, the more we can begin to change the narrative in the accounting profession.

The truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.

Today I want to talk about a topic that we can all relate to: gossip.  The reason this is important is because you probably have no idea how it’s affecting your accountant brain.

The truth is, we’ve all been there: sitting with a friend or coworker, sharing the latest juicy news about someone we know. Gossiping has become such a common part of our culture that it often feels like a natural and harmless way to bond with others.

Think about the last time you gossiped. Maybe you were talking about a celebrity’s latest scandal or sharing some drama about a difficult coworker. It might have felt exciting to share that piece of information, and you probably felt a sense of connection with the person you were talking to.

I remember a time when I used to gossip frequently. It seemed like a fun and easy way to pass the time and connect with friends. We would sit around and exchange stories about other people, feeling a mix of excitement and camaraderie.

In fact, I was in a book club for years that eventually morphed into discussing more about the biggest pain in the ass in the PTA and less about the book we had chosen.

At first, it didn’t seem like a big deal. Everyone does it, right? Sharing a bit of gossip felt like a harmless indulgence, a small pleasure that added a bit of spice to our conversations.

However, I started to notice something unsettling. After a gossip session, I often felt a bit uneasy. There was a lingering sense of guilt or discomfort, as if I had crossed a line without fully realizing it.

It made me wonder why something that felt so normal could leave me feeling bad afterward. I began to pay more attention to the effects gossip had on me and those around me. I noticed that it sometimes created tension and distrust, even among close friends.

But let’s face it – the excitement of gossip is undeniable. It’s thrilling to be “in the know” and to share that knowledge with others. But the truth is that that thrill is fleeting, and the aftermath can be less enjoyable.

Looking back, I can see that gossip often served as a distraction from my own life. It was easier to focus on someone else’s drama than to deal with my own challenges. But this avoidance didn’t solve any problems; it just postponed facing them.

As I reflected more, I realized that gossip didn’t just affect my relationships; it also had a subtle but significant impact on my own well-being. It fed into a cycle of negativity that was hard to break. The more I gossiped, the more I found myself looking for faults and flaws in others.

Here’s the thing – gossip can seem like a minor, inconsequential habit, but its effects can be far-reaching. It can shape the way we see the world and interact with the people around us. What starts as a seemingly harmless conversation can end up fostering negativity and mistrust.

So, while gossip may be a common and even enjoyable part of our culture, it’s important to understand why we engage in it and the deeper reasons behind our actions. Let’s start with  why we gossip.

Why We Gossip

Gossip is something many of us do without thinking twice. It’s pretty normal in social interactions and often feels like a harmless way to connect with others.

The thing is, when you’re chatting with friends or colleagues, sharing a bit of gossip can seem like a natural part of the conversation. It’s so ingrained in our culture that it doesn’t feel like a big deal.

I remember attending Al-Anon meetings years ago to cope with the effects of my ex-husband’s alcoholism. At the end of each meeting, they would read a statement reminding everyone to avoid gossip and criticism.

I remember being struck by that statement the first time I heard it.  This simple message had a profound impact on me. It made me realize how often I gossiped without considering its consequences.

Before those meetings, I saw gossip as an innocent part of life. It felt like something everyone did, especially when we got together with friends or coworkers.

Sharing the latest news about someone else seemed like a way to bond and fill the conversation. I never thought of it as harmful.

The truth is, gossip provides a psychological escape. When we talk about someone else’s drama, it’s a way to momentarily forget about our own problems.

It distracts us and gives us something interesting to discuss. For a few moments, we can focus on someone else’s life instead of our own challenges.

There’s also a chemical reason why we gossip. When we share gossip, our brain releases dopamine, which makes us feel good.

This is the same chemical that gets released when we eat our favorite food or win a game. That little rush of pleasure encourages us to keep gossiping because our brain craves that feeling.

But while gossip can feel exciting and enjoyable in the moment, it’s important to recognize its underlying motivations. The truth is that it’s a way to seek short-term pleasure and distraction.

This temporary high can make us overlook the long-term negative effects gossip can have on our relationships and our own well-being. In the end, understanding why we gossip can help us make more mindful choices about our conversations.

While it may seem like a harmless part of socializing, it’s worth considering the impact it has on ourselves and those around us. 

Now that we’ve explored why we gossip, let’s dive deeper into the science behind it. Understanding how our brains are wired for gossip can shed light on why it feels so irresistible.

Your Brain’s Role in Gossip

It’s important to understand that gossip might feel like a casual conversation, but your brain has a natural inclination towards it. It’s not just a social habit; it’s rooted in how our brains are wired.

When you gossip, your brain’s reward system is activated. Like I said before, this releases dopamine, the same chemical that makes you feel good when you eat your favorite food or achieve something exciting.

This dopamine release makes gossip feel pleasurable. Your brain craves that little burst of happiness, encouraging you to keep gossiping.

Gossip also plays a role in social bonding. When we share gossip, it can create a sense of connection and strengthen group cohesion.

This social bonding is important because humans are naturally social creatures. Our brains are wired to seek out and maintain relationships.

From an evolutionary perspective, gossip helped our ancestors survive. Think about it – sharing important social information about who could be trusted and who couldn’t was crucial for staying safe and thriving in a community.

Understanding who was reliable and who wasn’t helped our ancestors make better decisions. This kind of social knowledge was key to survival in a group setting.

Gossip also helps your brain resolve conflicting emotions. This process is known as cognitive dissonance.

Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort you feel when you hold two conflicting beliefs or attitudes. For example, if you believe in being honest but find yourself gossiping about a friend, you might justify the gossip to ease the discomfort by thinking, “They deserve it for how they treated me.”

When you gossip, it can help justify your own actions or feelings. If you feel jealous or insecure, gossiping about someone else can make you feel better about your own situation.

This justification can temporarily ease the discomfort of conflicting emotions. Your brain uses gossip as a way to balance out these feelings.

The bottom line is that gossip isn’t just idle chatter. It’s deeply rooted in how our brains function, from seeking pleasure to bonding with others and navigating social dynamics.

Understanding your brain’s role in gossip can help you see why it’s so tempting. Recognizing this can also make you more mindful of the effects gossip has on your mind and relationships.

With this understanding of how gossip activates our brain’s reward system, let’s now consider the specific impact this has on you as an accountant. How does gossip shape your thinking, and what does that mean for your work and well-being?

How Gossip Affects Your Accountant Brain

Many people believe gossip is just sharing facts about someone else. It seems innocent enough, but this belief can be misleading.

When you gossip, you might think you’re simply informing others. In reality, the motivation behind gossip is often to make yourself feel better temporarily.

The truth is that gossip works as a buffer, similar to behaviors like overeating or overspending. It’s a way to distract yourself from your own problems and emotions by focusing on someone else’s life.

It’s also important to understand that your brain is wired with what’s called the Reticular Activating System (RAS) that filters what you notice in the world. Gossip trains your RAS to focus on negativity, making you more attuned to the flaws and mistakes of others.

Think about it like this: if you decide you want a specific car, suddenly you see that car everywhere. That’s your RAS in action, highlighting what you’ve told it is important.

The same thing happens with gossip. When you habitually gossip, your brain starts to notice more negative things because that’s what you’ve trained it to focus on.

As an accountant, this can be particularly harmful. Constantly looking for drama and negativity can make you more critical and less objective, impacting your ability to work accurately and effectively. It can create an environment of distrust and tension, affecting teamwork and client relationships.

Unfortunately, this focus on negativity can have a long-term impact on your outlook on life. It makes you more likely to see and dwell on the negative aspects of your own life and the world around you.

Over time, this negative focus can affect your mental health and relationships. It can lead to a more pessimistic and critical view of everything.

If you’ve ever been around someone who is notorious for gossiping, I’m going to bet they’re pretty pessimistic and have a critical view of everything and everyone.  If you are that someone who is notorious for gossiping, it’s probably time to pay attention.

The bottom line is that gossip might seem harmless, but it has significant effects on your brain. By understanding how gossip impacts your focus and outlook, you can begin to see why it’s worth curbing this habit.

Now that you understand how gossip can negatively impact your brain, let’s explore how these effects can play out in your day-to-day work as an accountant, potentially leading to some serious professional consequences.

The Hidden Dangers of Gossip in Your Accounting Career

Gossip might seem like harmless talk, but it can create problems in your work life that you might not expect. Let’s look at a few ways gossip could cause trouble for your accounting career.

Slipping Work Performance: Imagine you’re reviewing important financial statements. But instead of focusing, your mind keeps wandering to the latest office gossip. This distraction doesn’t just slow you down—it increases the chance of making mistakes. In accounting, even small errors can lead to big problems for your clients and your reputation.

Losing Client Trust: What if a client hears that you’ve been talking about other clients or coworkers behind their backs? They might start to worry if their own private information is safe with you. Even just the idea that you gossip can make clients lose trust, causing them to hold back important information or take their business elsewhere.

Harming Teamwork: Gossip can also create a negative atmosphere at work. When people feel like they might be the subject of gossip, trust breaks down, and teamwork suffers. Instead of sharing information and working together, colleagues might start keeping things to themselves, leading to poor communication and less effective work. This can turn the workplace into a tense, stressful environment.

Holding Back Your Career: Lastly, think about how gossip could hurt your chances of moving up in your career. Managers and leaders pay attention to how you behave. If they see you as someone who spreads negativity, they might pass you over for promotions or important projects. Your reputation as a gossiper could stop you from getting the opportunities you deserve.

These examples show how gossip, even though it seems small, can have big consequences for your work life. What feels like a little fun in the moment can actually cause serious damage to your career and well-being. Knowing these risks is the first step to making better choices at work.

Seeing how gossip can harm your career and well-being, it’s clear that taking steps to reduce this habit is crucial. Let’s look at some practical ways you can cut down on gossip and create a more positive environment for yourself and others.

How to Reduce Gossip

Here are some steps to help you reduce gossip:

Self-Reflection: Recognize the emotions driving your desire to gossip. Common emotions that might lead someone to gossip include jealousy, resentment, boredom, and insecurity. This step involves looking inward to understand why you feel the urge to gossip in the first place.

Evaluate Relationships: Assess your friendships and workplace relationships. Determine if these connections are based on genuine mutual respect or if they are fueled by shared gossip.

Positive vs. Negative Motivations: Reflect on whether your conversation is driven by love and concern or by boredom, annoyance, or insecurity.

Manage Your Mind: Your thoughts create your feelings and your feelings drive your behaviors, so start to become more aware of the thoughts your brain is offering you.  If you feel the pressure to gossip, what is the thought causing you to feel pressure?

Notice Patterns and Triggers: Pay attention to the situations and emotions that lead you to gossip. Are there certain people that trigger you gossiping more than others?  Recognizing these can help you avoid gossiping.

Choose Positive Connections: Build relationships based on positive interactions rather than gossip. Who already has stopped gossiping?  Focus on creating meaningful and respectful connections.

Share Positive Attributes: Make a habit of finding and sharing positive things about others. Highlighting good qualities instead of negative ones can improve your outlook and relationships.

By following these steps, you’ll not only feel better about yourself but also improve your relationships. The bottom line is that replacing gossip with positivity can create a ripple effect of kindness and respect in your life.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Reducing Gossip

Now let me share an example of a coaching client who wanted to learn how to reduce gossip.  

She was a well-respected accountant at a mid-sized firm, however, she had a habit of gossiping, sharing tidbits about clients or colleagues during coffee breaks to feel connected.

Over time, she noticed the office environment becoming more tense and less collaborative. Her relationships with colleagues suffered, and she could sense growing mistrust as some started to avoid her.

One day, she overheard colleagues whispering about a confidential client matter she had mentioned. She realized that her gossip had led to a breach of confidentiality and she felt a wave of guilt and anxiety.

She came to me at one of her coaching sessions explaining what happened and looking at why she felt the need to gossip. She recognized feelings of boredom, insecurity, and a desire to fit in were often behind her actions.

She began practicing emotional awareness, paying attention to her feelings before engaging in conversations. By shifting her motivations from negative emotions to positive ones, she made a conscious effort to avoid gossip triggers.

She also worked on becoming more aware of her thoughts and emotions. Whenever she felt the urge to gossip, she made an effort to share something positive about the person instead.

Over time, she noticed significant improvements in her work environment. Her relationships with colleagues improved as they saw her as more trustworthy and respectful.

The office atmosphere became more collaborative and supportive, with less tension and more open communication. She also found that she was more focused and productive at work.

Each time she was tempted to gossip she reminded herself that it wasn’t worth the after effects.  She noticed she also started to feel more positive and energized, and that that was having an impact on how she felt about all aspects of her professional and personal life.

So hopefully you can see that although gossip is common, it’s not all that it’s cracked up to be.  When you learn what’s driving you to gossip, you can get a better handle on it, helping you to be a better accountant and a better person.  

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Gossip might seem like a harmless way to connect with others, but it can actually have a big impact on your professional relationships, your mental health, and how you view the world. By understanding why we gossip and how it affects our brains, you can start to see the downsides of this habit. 

Learning to recognize the emotions that drive you to gossip and replacing negative talk with positive interactions can help you create a more positive and productive environment at work and in your personal life.

For this week, ask yourself, “How does engaging in gossip affect my relationships and my own mindset, and what steps can I take to focus on more positive and constructive interactions?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed how gossip is affecting your accountant brain.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

As I share all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you are struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can simply go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me.

And make sure you check back each week as I help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Make sure you go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

Also, I would appreciate it if you could get the word out to other accountants about this podcast.  The more accountants find out about it, the more we can begin to change the narrative in the accounting profession.

The truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.