Author: Dawn Goldberg

Today I want to talk about asking better questions because I’ve been seeing this issue a lot with my coaching clients lately.  This is important because the questions we ask ourselves not only shape our individual experiences but also influence our professional and personal lives. 

As a CPA and a Professional Certified Coach for accountants, I’ve witnessed firsthand how the quality of questions impacts decision-making, time management, problem-solving, and overall effectiveness.  Basically, the questions we ask affect how we feel which then affects what we do or don’t do.

For example, let’s say you wake up, your brain clicks into gear, and the questions start flooding in. “Why is it so early?” “What do I have to do today?” “Why do I feel so tired?” Sound familiar?

Here’s the problem: most of those questions are pretty lousy. They’re like those annoying pop-up ads that clutter your screen when you’re trying to look up something – distracting, unhelpful, and downright irritating.

We all know that questions are essential. They’re how we navigate the world, make decisions, and understand ourselves and others. But here’s the thing: not all questions are created equal.

Think about it: when you ask yourself a question, you’re basically sending your brain on a mission to find an answer. In fact, your brain is like a Google search bar.

But depending on the quality of that question, your brain’s going to come back with either a helpful or unhelpful answer.  

In other words, most of us ask dead-end, unhelpful questions like “Why is this so hard?” or “Why can’t I figure this out?” 

On the flip side, you’ve got more empowering questions like “How can I make this easier?” or “What can I learn from this?”

See the difference? It’s like asking yourself whether you want a good day or a bad day. One type of question is going to leave you feeling overwhelmed, while the other is going to leave you feeling in control.

So, why does it matter, especially for accountants? Well, again, the questions we ask ourselves then shape our thoughts, our emotions, and our actions.  

When we get stuck in a cycle of dead-end questions, it’s like we’re just spinning our wheels in the mud. But when we start asking ourselves powerful questions, that’s when things change for the better.

I know you might be thinking that asking powerful questions isn’t always easy. You probably don’t even realize that you’re asking dead-end, unhelpful questions, let alone being able to switch to more powerful questions.  

But trust me, it’s worth the effort.

The truth is that every question is a choice, and every thought is a choice. And when you choose to ask yourself better questions, you get better answers which lead to better feelings, actions and results. 

Bottom line: if you want great answers, ask great questions.

Dead-End Questions

Whether you’re dealing with tricky tax laws, planning how to make your business grow, or just handling your everyday tasks, asking the right questions is key. When we get better at empowering questions, we give ourselves a big advantage. 

When we make asking better questions a habit, we make it possible to create better results.

So let’s get clear on dead-end versus powerful questions by starting with dead-end questions.

First, dead-end questions have a knack for negativity. They focus on what’s going wrong rather than envisioning what could go right. 

For example, when’s the last time you asked yourself something like, “Why is this so hard?”   This question sets a dismal tone, and sets your brain on a mission to find why things are so hard.

Your brain doesn’t care that you feel horrible after asking yourself, “Why is this so hard?”  It’s only job is to answer the question and show you why something is so hard.

The second thing about dead-end questions is that they don’t dig deep. They just stick to the surface of the problem, like skating over thin ice. 

For example, asking, “Why can’t I ever catch a break?” doesn’t really get to the root of the issue. It’s like trying to fix a leaky faucet without figuring out where the leak is coming from.

Third, dead-end questions can be really narrow-minded. They stop us from looking for new ideas and solutions, like putting blinders on a horse. 

For example, asking, “Why should I bother trying?” already assumes that we’ll fail, so we don’t even give ourselves a chance to think about how things could get better. It’s like saying, “I give up” before we even start.

Here are some examples of dead-end questions that you’ll want to pay attention to:

Why can’t I start?

Why can’t I finish?

Why am I so busy?

Why do I always feel like this?

Why did I do this to myself?

Why did they do this to me?

Why can’t I get it together?

Why can’t they get it together?

Why can’t someone else do this?

Why is this happening to me?

Why is my life so hard?

Why haven’t I learned this yet?

What’s wrong with me?

What did I do to deserve this?

What will they think of me?

When is it going to get better?

Why can’t he/she _______?

As you can see, these questions are going to lead to disempowering answers.  Their inherent negativity is going to result in negative, unhelpful answers.

Powerful Questions

Now, let’s talk about powerful questions. These are like switching on the light in a dark room.

First off, powerful questions are all about looking on the bright side. They turn problems into chances to learn and grow. 

For example, instead of thinking, “Why am I always making mistakes?,” you might ask yourself, “What can I learn from this mistake?” It’s like flipping a switch from feeling down to feeling curious or determined.

Second, powerful questions really get to the bottom of things. They make us think about what’s going on, again, like shining a flashlight into a dark room. 

For example, asking yourself, “How can I handle this problem in a new way?” makes you stop and think about your options. It’s like opening a door to fresh ideas and ways to solve problems.

Thirdly, powerful questions are all about being open to new ideas. They encourage us to be curious and explore different ways of thinking.

For example, asking yourself, “What else could I try that I haven’t thought of before?” pushes you to think outside the box and stay open to new opportunities. It’s like walking down a different hallway with doors that open to new possibilities you might not have considered.

Here are some examples of powerful questions that you may want to choose:

How do I want to feel?

What do I need to believe to feel the way I want to feel?

How can I take more responsibility for what I think, feel, and do?

How can I make this easier?

How can I get this done in less time?

How can I create what I want?

How can I make this more fun?

How can I delegate this?

What can I do to reach my goal?

What’s my next best step?

What am I grateful for?

What’s great about this?

As you can see, these questions are going to lead to much more empowering answers.  That Google search bar in your brain is going to look for answers that are helpful and productive.

So, hopefully you now can see how important the questions we ask ourselves really are. When we ask the right questions, it can totally change how we think and what we do. 

By swapping out those negative questions for better ones, we can start seeing things in a whole new light. 

Incorporating Powerful Questions

Now that you know the difference between dead-end and powerful questions, how can you tell if you’re asking yourself a dead-end question or a powerful question?

Here are some things to consider:

Is there a positive belief built into your question?

Does your question feel good or encourage you to evolve beyond your comfort zone?

Does your question empower you to take responsibility?

Does your question inspire you to take action?

Does your question generate insight?

Does your question open your mind?

Does your question help you discern what’s going on?

Does your question allow for appreciation and compassion?

The truth is that whenever there’s something that’s not working for you in your professional or personal life, it’s time to find the primary dead-end question that’s getting in the way.  But just know that it might feel uncomfortable at first.

If you’ve been asking yourself the same dead-end questions, that’s what your brain is familiar with.  That’s become your default.

And it’s important to understand that your brain loves default thoughts or questions, even if they’re unhelpful.  Your lower, primitive brain, the part that’s running your life 80 – 90% of the time doesn’t care that dead-end questions lead to unhelpful answers. 

Using a Powerful Question To Have An Easier Accounting Career

For example, I’ve been in public accounting for over 30 years and for decades I would ask myself, “Why is tax season so hard?”  Year after year, I would ask the same question, “Why is tax season so hard?”

But then I learned about how my brain works and could see what that repetitive question was creating for me.  What it created was constantly feeling stressed which caused me to complain, spin in my head, not manage my time effectively, not be able to get more done in less time, and ultimately resulting in tax season being hard….again!

Once I realized how unhelpful that question was, “Why is tax season so hard,” I was able to switch it to “How can I make tax season easier?”  At first my brain was resistant because it was used to looking for proof for why tax season was so hard, but I just kept asking the powerful question, “How can I make tax season easier?”

And when I asked that question I felt curious which then led me to do a time audit, look at what was working and what wasn’t, look for things I hadn’t considered before, helped me to stop complaining, stop spinning in my head, manage my time more effectively, get more done in less time, and have an easier tax season.

Here’s the thing – as you become better at asking powerful questions, you’ll start to reap the rewards of high-quality answers. I like to think of it as upgrading from basic cable to a premium streaming service – suddenly, you have access to a wealth of information and insights that were previously out of reach. 

By challenging yourself to ask better questions, you open the door to new perspectives and possibilities.

And don’t forget about encouraging your clients to ask powerful questions instead of dead-end questions. As an accountant, you have a unique opportunity to guide others toward greater clarity and understanding. 

By modeling the practice of asking powerful questions yourself, you set an example for your clients or colleagues to follow.

For example, when you’re talking with clients or colleagues, either offer them a powerful question or ask them to think carefully and look at things from different angles. Encourage them to question their assumptions.

By creating a feeling of curiosity for those around you, you help others feel more sure of themselves and come up with creative solutions to their problems.

Even if you’re not in public accounting, dealing with tax season, and asking “Why is tax season so hard?” you can deal with any difficult situation by asking an empowering question like, “How can I make this easier?”  You’ll be amazed at what your brain can come up with.

So, hopefully you can see that incorporating powerful questions into your day offers you a chance to create better results.  It allows your brain to get to work giving you high-quality answers that lead to you taking high-quality action. 

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Accountants Asking Better Questions

Now let me share how a few clients learned how to ask better questions and what happened when they did.  

Before discovering the power of asking better questions, one of my coaching clients found herself feeling overwhelmed with her workload and struggling to keep up with client demands.  Her typical dead-end questions were, “Why is there never enough time to get everything done?” or “Why do I always feel behind?”

These default, dead-end questions only reinforced feelings of frustration and helplessness, leaving her stuck and unable to effectively manage her time and her workload.

After working together, she decided to change her approach and started asking herself more powerful questions. Instead of dwelling on her frustrations, she asked herself, “How is it possible to get everything done with the time I have?” and “How can I get more done in less time?”

This shift in questioning helped her to effectively prioritize, not give into distractions, and focus.   As a result, she was able to get more done in less time and feel much more in control of her time and her workload.  

Another coaching client often struggled to find creative solutions to his clients’ financial and tax challenges and frequently doubted his abilities. When faced with a difficult problem, his default question was, “Why can’t I figure this out?” 

This dead-end question made him feel self-doubt and inadequate.  This then led to him spinning in his mind, questioning his abilities, and avoiding tackling the problem.

Thankfully, once he learned how to catch his dead-end questions and ask himself more powerful questions, he was able to find solutions he hadn’t thought of before. Instead of asking, “Why can’t I figure this out?” he chose to ask, “What can I do to figure this out?”

He was amazed how this shift in his questions helped him to take action like seeking out additional training, collaborating with colleagues, and asking his client better questions in order to get to the root of the problem.  As a result, he gained confidence and impressed his client with his approach.

In both examples, embracing the concept of powerful questions enabled my coaching clients to move beyond dead-end questions and instead ask better questions so that they could find better answers.  

The bottom line: if you want to take effective action, you need to ask better questions.   

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the concept of asking better questions.  As always, I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

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.

As I tell accountants all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.  That starts with taking The Smarter Accountant Quiz at  www.thesmarteraccountant.com. 

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 affects us all: handling other people’s opinions. This topic is important because, let’s face it, we’re constantly bombarded with what others think, whether it’s about us or everything around us. 

Think about it: whether it’s a client questioning your expertise or a friend criticizing your career choices, everyone has opinions and sometimes they can really get under your skin. But here’s the thing – knowing how to handle other people’s opinions can make all the difference in how we feel and how we navigate our professional and personal lives.

In today’s world, where social media fills every corner of our lives, opinions are everywhere. Whether it’s a viral meme or a serious political debate, it feels like everyone has something to add. 

And as the old saying goes, “Opinions are like… well, you know.” It’s true, isn’t it? Nowadays, it feels like everyone’s got an opinion, and unfortunately, they’re often pretty negative. 

Whether it’s a snarky comment on your latest LinkedIn post or a political sign on your neighbor’s lawn, it’s hard not to feel overwhelmed when our opinion differs and we feel attacked or defensive. It’s like we’re constantly dodging verbal bullets in a never-ending opinion war.

Of course it’s important to be able to speak your mind and have your own likes and dislikes. But lately, it seems like everyone’s opinions aren’t just sparking friendly debates – they’re causing major rifts. 

Kids are getting bullied, teens are feeling isolated, and adults are even breaking off relationships, all because of what someone else thinks. It’s like opinions have become weapons, leaving us feeling more divided than ever.

The truth is that opinions are also like fingerprints – no two are exactly alike. And just as, for example, we wouldn’t expect every client’s financial situation to be identical, we can’t expect everyone to share the same thoughts and beliefs that we have. 

As accountants, we understand the importance of considering multiple viewpoints and weighing options before making informed decisions. So why should handling other people’s opinions be any different?

Well today I want to discuss what I call “opinion management”, helping you to understand the psychology behind why we care so much about what others think, and practical tips for maintaining your sanity in the face of other people’s opinions.  

Handling Other People’s Opinions of You

Let’s start by dealing with what others think about you. We’ve all heard the saying, “What you think of me is none of my business,” but let’s face it – it’s easier said than done. 

In today’s world, where social media rules and everyone’s got a platform to share their thoughts, handling other people’s opinions can feel like a nasty game of dodgeball.

It’s like everything about us – from our appearance and choices to our actions and inactions – is under a microscope, waiting to be judged by anyone and everyone. And let’s not forget about our own opinions on everything under the sun – they’re fair game for criticism too.

Let’s be honest, it’s hard not to let other people’s opinions get to us. After all, we’re only human, and nobody likes feeling judged or criticized.

But here’s the thing – just because someone has an opinion about us doesn’t mean it’s true or valid. The truth is that people see us through their own lenses, colored by their experiences, biases, and insecurities. So why let their perspective dictate how we feel about ourselves?

Sure, it’s easier said than done, but learning to brush off other people’s opinions and stay true to ourselves is key. After all, we’re the ones living our lives, not them. 

I also think it’s a common struggle among many accountants to feel the pressure to mold ourselves into what we think others want us to be. It’s like we’re constantly walking on eggshells, afraid of stepping out of line and facing disapproval.

Think about it: have you ever held back from pursuing your dreams because you were worried about what others might think?  When I decided I wanted to write my book, it took me a while to get the courage to tell people about it because I was afraid that others would think it was crazy; I’m an accountant, not an author.

Plus, I had the opinion of my eleventh grade English teacher still in my head.  He once told me it was a good thing I was going to study accounting because I wasn’t very good at writing.

His opinion was still swirling around in my brain 40 years later!  Pretty amazing, right?

What about you?  Where have other people’s opinions of you held you back?  Maybe you didn’t go after that promotion because you were afraid of failing in front of your colleagues. Or you might have hesitated to voice your ideas during a meeting because you didn’t want to rock the boat.

I recently had an HR issue at work and hesitated speaking up because I was worried what my coworkers would think if I did.  I finally decided that being true to myself was more important than the negative opinions others might have about me.

Your Brain’s Role In Handling Other People’s Opinions Of You

But it’s a tricky cycle to break free from. Especially when our brain is wired with a tribe mentality and is constantly seeking validation from others.

In fact, not being accepted by the tribe is life-threatening to our primitive brain.  If you think about it, when humans lived in caves, being ostracized from the tribe meant certain death, and that primitive part of our brain is still running our lives 80 – 90% of the time.

Unfortunately, when we seek validation from others to feel confident in ourselves, we end up sacrificing what’s true for us.  Sometimes we play it safe, staying within the confines of what we think others expect of us, rather than taking risks and pursuing what truly lights us up.

And it’s not just the big decisions that are affected. Even the smallest choices, like trying a different haircut or rooting for a particular sports team, can keep us from taking action out of a fear of judgment from others. 

The interesting thing is that most of the time, the opinions we’re so worried about are just our perception, not factual.  In other words, we assume that others will disapprove of us, even when there’s no evidence to support that belief. 

One of my favorite quotes on this subject is by Dita Von Teese: “You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be somebody who hates peaches.” I love this quote because it explains that no matter how good or accomplished you are, there will always be someone who criticizes or dislikes you, and that’s okay.

The main reason I wanted to do this episode is because I think we all need to break free from this cycle of seeking approval and validation from others.  How?  By beginning to trust ourselves and our abilities more. 

When you realize that your own opinion of yourself matters more than what others think of you, that’s when you truly feel liberated. You’re able to let people have their own thoughts about you without feeling the need to prove them wrong or change their minds.

An analogy I like to use with my coaching clients is if someone said they don’t like your blue hair and you don’t have blue hair, you wouldn’t give it a second thought. Their opinion would just be a passing comment, not something that defines who you are. 

On that note, my mentor taught me the saying, “I love letting people be wrong about me.”  I love  this thought because it sets me free from trying to change people’s opinions of me.

The bottom line is that the key to handling other people’s opinions of you is to value your own opinion of yourself more than theirs.  In other words, what you think of you is the only business you need to focus on.

Handling Other People’s Opinions of Everything Else

Now that I’ve shared how to handle other people’s opinions of you, let’s dive into handling other people’s opinions of everything else.  You know that saying, “No two minds think alike”? Well it’s absolutely true, but can often be frustrating.

The analogy I like to use with my coaching clients who are struggling with other people’s opinions is to imagine you’re in a room with ten other people, and there’s a blue chair sitting in the middle. The question is, how many chairs are in the room?

It sounds like a silly question, but it’s actually not.  The answer is ten.  How?  Because if you ask each person to describe the chair, you’ll get ten different answers. 

Some might love the color, others might find it tacky. Some might think it’s comfy, while others find it too stiff. It’s like everyone’s wearing their own unique pair of glasses, tinted by their personal experiences and preferences about that chair.

The truth is that we can all look at the same person, situation, or thing, and have completely different perspectives.  From politics to parenting choices, everyone has a human brain that has a lot of opinions.

Unfortunately, instead of celebrating this diversity of perspectives, it often leads to arguments and rifts between friends, family, and even strangers.

It’s like we’re all looking at the same picture, but seeing completely different things. And those differences in opinion can drive a wedge between us, making it harder to find common ground and come together.

Curiosity Instead Of Condemnation

We’re often so focused on proving ourselves right that we forget to step back and truly understand where others are coming from. My recommendation for my clients is to come from a place of curiosity instead of condemnation.  

It sounds great, but how do you do that?  I suggest you come up with at least 3 reasons why someone might have the opinion they have.  

Just like people on a debate team need to be able to present arguments from both sides of an issue and be able to articulate the opposing viewpoints, it’s helpful to ask yourself what could someone who has a differing opinion be thinking and feeling?  

For example, I was speaking to a coworker who has very strong political views and she was sharing that she had had a big disagreement with a friend with an opposing view.  She said she was considering ending the friendship, since this person was “clearly crazy” based on their disagreement.

When I asked her to come up with 3 reasons why he may have the opinion he has, imagining what he might be thinking and feeling that would make that opinion possible, she visibly relaxed.  She said, “I imagine he loves this country as much as I do, that he was raised to believe a certain way, and that he feels comfortable enough with me to express his opinion”.

Her brain, like all of ours, just wanted to be right, which meant that if someone’s opinion didn’t match hers, they were wrong.  Thankfully, with a little imagination, she was able to step into her friend’s brain and envision what he might be thinking when he looked at the same “blue chair” in the room.

So, the next time you encounter someone with a different opinion, try to see things from their point of view. Imagine what thoughts might be shaping their beliefs and how those beliefs influence their actions. 

It’s about finding their perspective interesting rather than dismissing it as “crazy” or “wrong.” It’s a small shift in mindset that can lead to greater understanding and harmony in our interactions with others.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Effectively Handling Other People’s Opinions

Now let me share how various clients have handled other people’s opinions about them and everything else.

One of my coaching clients worked at a large firm.  She often found herself second-guessing her decisions, seeking validation from her colleagues, and was afraid to voice her opinions during team meetings, fearing judgment and criticism. 

After working together to become a Smarter Accountant, she learned how to trust her own expertise and handle differing opinions without making it mean she was wrong. She began speaking up more confidently in meetings and was surprised to find that her colleagues respected her insights, even when they disagreed.

Another client had always prided himself on his attention to detail and analytical skills. However, when he was promoted to manager in his mid-sized firm, he struggled with delegating tasks and receiving feedback from his team members. 

He often took criticism personally and became defensive when others questioned his decisions. He shared that he often felt attacked when someone’s opinion was different from his.

Once we worked together, he realized that he needed to separate his professional identity from others’ opinions of his work. He learned to listen to constructive feedback without feeling threatened and used it as an opportunity for growth and improvement.

And one of my other clients decided she wanted a career change and to start her own consulting business. While it was a dream come true, she faced skepticism and discouragement from friends and family who doubted her ability to succeed as an entrepreneur. 

We talked a lot about where the naysayers might be coming from, whether it was their own unmet dreams, honest concern for her well-being, or jealousy.  Once she understood that other people’s opinions were about them and not her ability to succeed, she was determined to make it work.  

As she went through The Smarter Accountant Program and was able to successfully handle other people’s opinions, she built a successful consulting practice.  

Hopefully these client’s stories can give you a better idea of the fact that we all struggle with other people’s opinions, but that you can do something so that it doesn’t derail your efforts or your career.  The truth is that when you feel confident and show up authentically, other people’s opinions of you and everything else are interesting, but not a problem. 

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed how to handle other people’s opinions.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

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 the topic of avoidance and how to overcome it.  I believe this is incredibly important for us as accountants because when we get into avoidance mode, we can cause some big problems for ourselves.

Take a second and think about some of the things you’ve been avoiding:

• Having a difficult conversation
• Making that doctor or dentist appointment
• Doing your own budget or taxes
• Starting that new exercise routine
• Firing that difficult client
• Starting that complicated project
• Organizing your inbox

Just like many of you, I’ve dealt with my fair share of avoidance and procrastination. There have been many things I’ve put off for days, weeks, or even months, whether it’s sorting through old files or scheduling routine check-ups.

Sometimes it involves a reluctance to let go of sentimental items or the fear of facing some kind of bad news.  Either way, there are many reasons why we tend to avoid certain things. 

When it comes to getting accounting work done, it often feels like our to-do lists are already stretched to their limits, making procrastination seem like the most logical choice.  That’s when checking email can look really enticing.

However, failing to address our tendency to avoid only adds unnecessary stress to our lives. Let’s face it, accounting is already demanding; we don’t need to make it even more difficult on ourselves by giving into avoidance. 

Before I go on, I want to point out that avoidance is different from procrastination. Procrastination involves delaying doing something until pressure mounts, but eventually getting it done.

On the other hand, avoidance happens when we simply never get around to tasks, especially when there’s no looming deadline.  

As accountants, we’re very familiar with working under tight deadlines. The issue is that when there’s no external pressure like a deadline, that’s when avoidance creeps in. 

In other words, without a deadline to hold our feet to the fire, it’s easy to slip into avoidance and not take action.  To our deadline-driven accountant brain, if there’s no immediate consequence for avoiding, then what’s the problem?

Well, the problem is that if we don’t get a better handle on avoidance and its implications, we’re setting ourselves up to experience unnecessary stress and overwhelm.  Overcoming avoidance makes it possible to be more productive, to effectively use our time, and to accomplish more in less time.

I promise that by the end of this episode, you’re going to have a much better understanding of avoidance and how to overcome it so that you can take charge of getting things done.

Common Reasons For Avoidance For Accountants

As busy accountants, we’ve got a lot on our plates so it can be a little shocking when we take a step back and honestly look at what we’ve been avoiding.  It’s like we’re on autopilot just trying to get our work done, but before we know it, we’ve got a pile of things we’ve been avoiding.

The question is, what exactly causes us to avoid certain things, and what can we do about it once we realize that’s what’s happening?

When it comes to understanding the tendency for accountants to slip into avoidance mode, it’s important to look at some of the common reasons behind this behavior. 

Here are some factors that often contribute to avoidance in our profession:

Perception of Task Urgency: With an endless to-do list, it’s easy to fall into the trap of prioritizing the things on that list based on perceived urgency. The problem is that our brain is wired to think that everything is urgent.  And when we believe everything is urgent, then it’s just easier to avoid certain things because of the pressure caused by the urgency of everything else.  

Overwhelm Due to Workload: When we have a lot on our plates, we’re much more likely to become overwhelmed.  As I tell my coaching clients all the time, an overwhelmed brain is going to look for relief in some form or another, and oftentimes that form is avoidance. The temptation to avoid certain tasks becomes a coping mechanism to manage existing demands.

Need for More Information: As accountants, we hate uncertainty.  Unfortunately, uncertainty breeds hesitation, and the need for more information or clarification before tackling a task can lead to avoidance. Whether it’s understanding a new tax law or waiting for crucial data to come in, the fear of making uninformed decisions can make us give into avoidance.

Giving Into Perfectionism: One of the sneakiest culprits for accountants is perfectionism.  We are trained to do things perfectly, making it seem like avoidance is the best option if we anticipate not being able to do something perfectly.  The fear of making mistakes or falling short can lead to a hesitation to take action for fear of not meeting expectations.

These are just a few of the common reasons for avoidance, but now I want to talk about your brain’s role and why you need to understand it.

Your Brain’s Role in Avoidance

If you’re like me, you probably learned a lot about accounting but not what makes it possible to have an easier accounting career.  That is why I am so passionate about blending brain science with accounting.

If you’ve ever wondered why you sometimes feel the urge to put off tasks, even when you know they’re important, your brain plays a big part in this behavior and here’s why:

The Comfort of Familiarity: Our brains love familiarity and routine. When faced with something new or challenging, like a complicated accounting task, our brains create a warning signal because it’s outside our comfort zone. To avoid this discomfort, our brain’s natural response is to steer us away from the task, even if it’s important.

The Fear Factor: Believe it or not, our brains are wired to protect us from perceived threats, even if those threats are just uncomfortable feelings. When we anticipate stress, anxiety, or failure associated with a task, our brain sounds the alarm bells, pushing us to avoid the task altogether to avoid those unpleasant feelings.

Instant Gratification vs. Long-Term Gain: I’ve shared this before on the podcast, but our lower, Toddler brain loves instant gratification. Just like a toddler, it wants what it wants, when it wants it.  It’s why we might choose to check email instead of tackling that accounting report. Avoidance often feels easier and more immediately rewarding than facing a challenging task head-on, even though the long-term benefits of completing the task far outweigh the short-term comfort of avoidance.

The Power of Habit: Have you ever noticed how avoidance can become a habit? That’s because our brains are creatures of habit. Each time we avoid a task, our brain reinforces that behavior, making it more likely that we’ll avoid similar tasks in the future. Breaking the cycle of avoidance means rewiring our brain’s habits to prioritize action over avoidance.

Understanding how our brains influence avoidance behaviors is the first step in overcoming them. By recognizing these patterns and learning to work with our brains instead of against them, we can take control of our productivity.

A Step-by-Step Approach For Overcoming Avoidance

I believe that when you can get a better handle on avoidance, you will be amazed at how much more productive you’ll be and how much better you manage your time.

I’ve worked with many coaching clients dealing with avoidance, so I’ve created a three step process that will help you conquer avoidance:

Step One: Task Identification – Start by selecting a task that you’ve been avoiding. It could be something small like organizing your desk or something big like tackling a big accounting project. The key is to pick something that you’ve been putting off.

Once you’ve chosen your task, start a timer for 10 minutes and jot down every thought that comes to mind about the task, project, or goal.  A word of caution – do not fall into the trap of saying, “I don’t know”; this is simply your brain’s tricky way of getting you to not take action.

Think about it – if you’re confused, what do you do?  Typically nothing.  So just get clear about what you’re thinking about the task you’ve been avoiding.

Step Two: Recognizing Feelings – Once you’ve got a list of the thoughts you’ve been thinking about the task, ask yourself how each of those thoughts make you feel.  What one word emotion comes up for you when you think each thought?

For example, if the thought is, “I have too much on my plate,” the feeling is probably overwhelmed.  Or if the thought is, “I’m not sure how to do this,” the feeling is probably confused.  

Here’s what’s most important to understand when it comes to avoidance – your feelings drive your actions and inactions.  In other words, the reason you’re avoiding taking action is because of those feelings.  

As you review your list of thoughts about the tasks you’ve been avoiding, pay attention to how they make you feel. Do you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stressed? These feelings are why you’ve been avoiding the task.

It’s not because there’s anything wrong with you.  You just haven’t been managing your mind.

Step Three: Taking Charge – this is the final step where you take charge.  Once you’re aware of the feelings that have been causing you to avoid certain tasks, now you can do something about them.

For this step, you’re going to get clear about the feelings that will drive you to take action.  For example, some of my favorite feelings to overcome avoidance are motivated, determined, and focused.

Now you’re going to choose one feeling and you’re going to ask yourself, “What is a believable thought I can think that will make me feel that way?”  For example, when I want to feel motivated instead of overwhelmed, I will choose to think, “You can totally finish this task” or “You’re going to be so happy when this is done.”   

When your brain wants to slip into avoidance mode, you get to take back control by deciding how you need to feel to take action and then what thought can you think on purpose that will create that wanted feeling.

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of these steps.  I promise you, they’re more powerful than you might realize.  

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Overcoming Avoidance

As I said before, I’ve coached many accountants on the topic of avoidance so let me share some of the stories of my Smarter Accountant clients.

One of my clients often found herself avoiding scheduling client meetings. Even though she knew these meetings were important, she felt anxious about picking up the phone or having a Zoom call. 

When we started working together she began paying attention to what was happening just prior to slipping into avoidance mode.  What she realized was that her fear of rejection was holding her back. 

She didn’t want to embarrass herself by not knowing the answer to a client’s question so she just avoided having meetings as much as possible.  Unfortunately, this wasn’t helping her grow her business.

After working with me, she started telling herself, “I bring value to my clients, no matter what.”  Every time she thought that on purpose, she felt more and more confident.  

Even when a client did ask a question that she didn’t know the answer, she confidently said, “That’s a great question.  Let me look into it and get back to you.”

After a few weeks she realized how much better she felt once she was able to overcome the avoidance of client meetings and started looking at other things she had been avoiding as well.

Another client admitted that he was always avoiding implementing new accounting software. He was afraid of making mistakes and noticed he kept thinking that he just wasn’t as computer savvy as everyone else. 

With coaching, he learned to focus on progress, not perfection. He took it one step at a time and soon found himself embracing the learning process. 

By choosing to feel curious and willing, he noticed a complete shift in his mindset.  He also began to see how much more productive and efficient he was and started looking for other things he had been avoiding so he could overcome them as well.

He learned to ask more empowering questions like, “I wonder how I can make this easier for myself?”  He quickly began to explore ways that he could become more computer savvy and was thrilled with how much progress he was making.

The reason I love sharing client stories, especially when it comes to overcoming avoidance, is so that hopefully you can see what’s possible when you learn how to manage your brain.

Here’s what I most want you to know – you are not alone with the issues you’re dealing with when it comes to avoidance.  You just need to learn how to easily manage your brain so that you can manage everything else. 

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed how to overcome avoidance.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

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 discuss something that every accountant needs to understand, whether you’re in public or private accounting – why your brain does NOT want you to advance in your accounting career.  I think this is incredibly important to understand if you want to grow professionally or if you just want to continue being an accountant.

Think about it – have you ever considered advancing in your accounting career or possibly going out on your own, only to have it feel like an uphill battle? It turns out, our brains play a bigger role in that struggle than we realize.

As accountants, we’re all about professional growth and chasing those financial milestones, but our brains have a funny way of prioritizing safety over ambition. They’re wired to keep us in our comfort zones, even if that means missing out on opportunities for success.

For example, that stable job with the familiar routine? Our brains love it because it screams safety. But when it comes to exploring new career paths or diving into entrepreneurship, suddenly our brains are like, “Whoa!  Slow down!”

The truth is that the fear of the unknown and the potential for discomfort can outweigh the allure of financial gain and personal fulfillment. In other words, it’s like our brains are putting the brakes on our ambitions without us even realizing it.

Thankfully, there are strategies we can use to coax our brains into embracing change and taking calculated risks. By understanding how our brains work, we can bridge the gap between having career goals and actually achieving them.

Today I’m going to explain why our brains sometimes resist our plans and dreams for our accounting careers, and more importantly, how we can overcome those obstacles to reach our full potential.

The Comfort Zone Trap

Now, let’s talk about something every accountant knows pretty well: the comfort zone trap. Our comfort zone is where routines, habits, and things that are familiar create a sense of security. 

While comfort zones are helpful to have, they can be both a blessing and a curse.

In our line of work, sticking to what we know feels like second nature. As accountants, we often gravitate towards well-established procedures, familiar software, or routine tasks. 

However, there’s a fine line between a stable routine and stagnation. 

The truth is that our primitive brain, the part of the brain we’ve had since humans lived in caves, is wired for familiarity and resistance to change.  Think about it – to those early humans, familiarity often meant safety, and change could signal potential threats. 

So, what does that have to do with being an accountant in the 21st century?  Well, in the context of accounting careers, this primitive part of our brain is still running our lives 80 – 90% of the time.  

Understanding how your primitive brain works gives you an awareness and the ability to recognize the subtle and not so subtle ways your brain may resist stepping beyond the familiar, even when it’s in your best interest.

For example, take technology. I know I might be dating myself, but even though we’ve come a long way from 12-column paper and Lotus 1-2-3, our primitive brain is not comfortable with embracing new software.  

In fact, my brain threw a temper tantrum when we had to learn CCH Engagement after our firm merged with a larger firm.  My brain was so used to using the programs that were familiar to me, that it had me feeling constantly annoyed or frustrated whenever I had to utilize any new software.

And besides technology, if you want to grow and take on more of a leadership role, stepping into a managerial role means venturing beyond our comfort zone, and that can be downright scary to your accountant brain. I’ve seen it with clients time and time again—wanting to advance, but being held back by that nagging voice in their heads.

Maybe you’ve had thoughts like, “I don’t know about this.  You should probably stay where you are.”  That’s the primitive brain wanting you to stay in your comfort zone.

Plus, there’s also the processes we use to get our work done.  Sure, our tried-and-tested methods might feel like old friends, but they could be holding us back from greater efficiency and productivity.

I’ve actually spoken to many accountants who will argue for their limitations, all because that’s familiar to their accountant brain.  What I mean when I say, “Accountants will argue for their limitations” is that we hold onto what’s familiar, even if it’s unhelpful.

For example, I explained to an accountant on a consult call that I could teach him how to work less and get more done.  He was working 60 – 70 hours a week and I shared that I could teach him how to better manage his time so that he could get more done in less time.

You would think that would be a good thing for him to hear, but not to his accountant brain.  His brain said, “It’s probably a gimmick.  The only way I can do what I do is to work the hours I’ve always worked.”

The issue was that the hours he was working were unsustainable, but his primitive brain didn’t care.  It only cared about sticking with what’s familiar, even if what was familiar was unhelpful.

So what’s the good news? Once we recognize the comfort zone for what it is, we can start making moves to break free. 

It’s all about seeing what your brain is doing and being willing to step outside that cozy, but often unhelpful bubble it’s created.  Trust me, the rewards are worth it.

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Fear of Failure

Now that you know a little bit more about why it’s so easy to fall into the comfort zone trap, I want to talk about a common hurdle in our accounting careers: the fear of failure. It’s like this invisible barrier that holds us back from reaching our full potential. 

But thankfully, we can totally conquer it.

In our line of work, where accuracy and precision is everything, the pressure to get things right can feel suffocating. Whether it’s stressing over financial reports or feeling anxious about misinterpreting regulations, that fear of messing something up is always lurking in the background.

Why is that?  Well, once again it’s the way your primitive brain is wired to steer clear of anything that seems like danger. 

The issue is that there are A LOT of things that our brain believes is dangerous, including failure.  The fear of failure triggers all sorts of alarms, making us hesitant to take risks, even when those risks could lead to major career wins.

Again, when humans lived in caves, we stayed safe in our caves, fearing the rustling of a bush because it could be a saber-toothed tiger waiting to pounce on us.  Back then, avoiding risks was a survival tactic. 

Fast forward to today, and that fear of failure still has a tight grip on us.  Even an email from a difficult client can create the same level of fear as when we used rocks as weapons.

Thankfully, there are ways to outsmart this ancient survival instinct:

Cultivating a Growth Mindset: Instead of seeing challenges as roadblocks, think of them as opportunities to learn and improve. This shift in mindset helps reshape how you view failure and allows you to see it as a natural part of the learning process.

Setting Realistic Goals:  Break down your career goals into smaller, achievable steps. This approach makes the journey less overwhelming and reduces the fear of failure. Celebrate your successes along the way, building confidence in your abilities.

Learning from Mistakes:  Mistakes are a part of any profession, even in accounting. Treat them as learning experiences. When a mistake happens, take the time to understand what went wrong, learn from it, and use that knowledge to do better next time.

Seeking Mentorship and Guidance:  Connect with experienced mentors and coaches who can offer insights and advice. Sharing your concerns about the fear of failure with someone who has been there can provide valuable support. Learning from others’ experiences can be a powerful tool for your own growth.

When dealing with a fear of failure, it’s all about flipping the script your primitive, fear-based brain has and seeing setbacks as stepping stones to move you forward.

Imposter Syndrome

Despite the fact that as accountants, we are smart people doing smart things, there’s something we have in common with many other accountants – imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is that feeling of self-doubt that often creeps in, despite our intelligence, skills, and accomplishments. In fact, it doesn’t matter how many letters you have after your last name or what title your business card has, imposter syndrome happens to most of us.

If you’ve experienced imposter syndrome, there’s no shame.

Most of my coaching clients come to me to work on imposter syndrome.  Despite everyone around them singing their praises or being impressed by their resume, there’s that voice in their head whispering, “You’re not as good as they think you are” or “Someone’s going to figure out that you don’t know as much as they believe you do.”

When it comes to imposter syndrome, once again, we have to blame it on our brains, specifically the fact that they are wired to focus on the negatives, even when we’ve got a laundry list of successes. 

For example, maybe you graduated with an impressive GPA or you passed the CPA exam.  But instead of feeling proud, there’s this nagging thought that maybe it was just luck, or worse, that you’re not as smart as everyone thinks.

But here’s the thing: it’s not just you. Imposter syndrome is a common phenomenon, especially in fields like accounting where there’s a high expectation of excellence.

And while it can feel isolating, knowing that you’re not alone can be surprisingly comforting.

So how do we combat this sneaky impostor syndrome? Here are a few strategies that should help silence that doubting voice:

First off, you have to begin to challenge those negative thoughts. Instead of dwelling on what your brain perceives as weaknesses, focus on your strengths and accomplishments. 

For example, if you catch yourself thinking, “I’m not cut out for this role,” you have to counter it with specific examples of times when you’ve done well in similar situations.  Don’t assume your thoughts are facts, because they’re not.

They’re actually optional sentences in your brain that you have 100% control over.

The second suggestion is to celebrate your wins, big and small. Whether it’s completing a challenging task or receiving praise from a colleague, take a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. 

Keeping a record of these successes serves as a tangible reminder of your capabilities and can help boost your confidence when self-doubt creeps in.  Your brain will always look for proof of what you believe, so start thinking better thoughts about yourself and have the proof ready.

The third suggestion, like I said before, is to seek out mentors and coaches who can offer constructive feedback and support. Connecting with experienced professionals who understand the challenges of the accounting profession can provide valuable insights and reassurance. 

For example, as I say at the end of each podcast episode, if you’re struggling with any aspect of being an accountant, you can always schedule a quick call with me for guidance.  I’ve been at this for over 30 years, so I can help you gain perspective and confidence in your abilities.

The fourth suggestion is to prioritize continuous learning and skill development. The accounting profession is always changing, so try to stay as up-to-date as you can on industry trends and advancements.

For example, taking CPE classes, workshops, or webinars will help to enhance your knowledge and your skills.  This will not only boost your confidence but also reinforces your competence in your field.

And the fifth and final suggestion if you’re dealing with imposter syndrome is to build a supportive professional network. Surround yourself with colleagues who understand the pressures and challenges of the accounting world and who can offer encouragement and advice. 

For example, whether it’s in person or virtually, participating in discussions and sharing experiences with peers can help normalize feelings of impostor syndrome and provide a sense of camaraderie and support.  The truth is that you’re not the only one experiencing imposter syndrome.

Hopefully you can see that by implementing these strategies and challenging the negative thoughts associated with impostor syndrome, you can begin to create a stronger sense of self-confidence and a more accurate perception of your abilities. 

Again, you’re not alone in experiencing these feelings, but there’s also something you can do about them so that they’re no longer holding you back.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Managing Your Brain So You Can Advance In Your Accounting Career

In my book, “The Smarter Accountant,” I explained all about the importance of brain management for accountants.  Managing your brain is much simpler than you think and involves understanding and intentionally choosing your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to override your primitive brain’s resistance to change.  

Basically, this means recognizing when your primitive brain is getting in the way and knowing what to do about it.  Let me give you some real-life examples to illustrate how managing your brain can transform your accounting career. 

One of my clients had difficulty with new accounting technologies. Every time her firm introduced something new, her brain went into panic mode, just like mine did. But after becoming a Smarter Accountant, she took proactive steps to enroll in training programs and understand the technology better. 

By conquering her brain’s initial resistance to change, she not only mastered the new technologies but also became a go-to resource within her firm.  By understanding her brain better, it opened doors for career advancement she never thought possible.

I worked with another coaching client who faced setbacks early in his career, leading to a lot of self-doubt. Working for a mid-sized firm that provided very little training, he found himself making more mistakes than he was comfortable with. 

Thankfully, after completing the 6-week Smarter Accountant Program, he changed how he saw new challenges. Instead of dwelling on past mistakes, he saw them as chances to learn and grow. 

By being open to feedback and always learning, he overcame imposter syndrome and got a promotion he thought he couldn’t reach.

Hopefully, these stories show how important it is to manage your brain as an accountant. The truth is that when your brain is on your side, it makes reaching your career goals easier and more satisfying, no matter what those goals are.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed why your brain doesn’t want you to advance in your accounting career and what to do about it.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

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.

You are NOT meant to have a successful accounting career without support.  You worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

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.