Author: Dawn Goldberg

I haven’t taught a masterclass in awhile because I’ve been dealing with chemo, but I recently started doing my monthly masterclasses for accountants and the first topic I decided to share is everything you need to know about to-do lists.

In today’s episode I want to share some of the information I taught in that masterclass and let you know that if you’re interested in upcoming masterclasses, I’ll be announcing them each month, so don’t worry.  I’ll be covering a lot of important topics for accountants like everything you need to know about procrastination, everything you need to know about time blocking, etc.

Before we dive in, if any of what I’m going to share resonates with you, and you’re ready to get more control over your time, I offer a free 30-minute Time Management Audit Zoom call. I’ll explain more later, but you can book your audit at https://thesmarteraccountant.com/time-audit/

Alright, now let’s dive into today’s topic.  I think we can all agree that to-do lists have become this universal tool we rely on to keep our lives in order, right? Whether you’re an accountant juggling client deadlines, a parent managing household tasks, or just someone trying to get through the day without dropping the ball, you’ve probably got some version of a to-do list. 

It might be on paper, on an app, on sticky notes, or even just floating around in your head.

The interesting thing is that there’s something about a to-do list that feels so reassuring. We believe we have this little map guiding us through the chaos, and every time we cross something off, we get that tiny rush of satisfaction. It feels productive—like we’re moving forward, one task at a time.

But here’s the thing—if you’ve ever found yourself with a never-ending list, feeling like no matter how much you check off, you’re still behind, you’re not alone. We’ve all had those days where the list just keeps growing, and at the end of it, you’re left wondering, ‘What did I really accomplish today?’

To-do lists are supposed to help us manage our time better, but often, they leave us feeling like we’re on a hamster wheel—busy, but not really getting anywhere. I’ve coached a lot of accountants who tell me that even though they’re crossing off tasks all day long, they still feel overwhelmed, stressed, and like they’re falling behind. So what’s going on?

Well, I’ve spent years studying time management, especially for professionals like us, and what I’ve come to realize is that to-do lists, while helpful in some ways, often give us a false sense of control. They trick us into thinking we’re managing our time well just because we’re crossing things off. 

But the real question is: are we crossing off the right things? Are we managing our time, or is our time managing us?

In this episode, I’m going to help you rethink how you approach your to-do list. I’m going to dive into why it might not be working the way you think it is, and how you can start making some changes that will actually help you feel more in control of your time.

Not Everything On Your List Is Yours To Do

Now, let’s talk about something that I see happening all the time, especially with accountants: the belief that everything on your to-do list is something you need to handle. If you’re anything like the accountants I coach, you might be nodding your head right now because it probably feels like no one else can do it quite like you can, right? It’s this idea that if you don’t do it, it won’t get done—or worse, it won’t get done correctly.

Here’s the truth: not everything on your list is yours to do. That might be a tough pill to swallow, especially if you’re used to being the go-to person for getting things done. But when we try to take on everything ourselves, what we’re really doing is setting ourselves up for overwhelm and burnout.

Think about it—how many things on your list could be done by someone else? Maybe it’s a colleague, a family member, or even your kids. The problem is, we often tell ourselves, ‘It’s just easier if I do it.’ Or we worry that if we delegate, we’ll still have to fix it later. And trust me, I get it. 

We’ve all been there, holding onto tasks that we don’t need to because we think it’ll save us time or stress. But what ends up happening? We get overloaded, frustrated, and burnt out.

The truth is that delegation is one of the hardest things to learn, but it’s also one of the most powerful. When you start letting go of things that don’t actually need your attention, you make room for the stuff that really matters—the work that only you can do. 

And I don’t just mean at work—I mean in your personal life, too. Whether it’s handing off a project at work or asking for help around the house, you don’t have to do everything.

Now it sounds easy to just address the fact that not everything on your to-do list is yours to do, but you’re probably going to face some obstacles, especially from your own brain. Here’s what you need to know about why this happens and the challenges you might encounter:

Your brain loves routine and familiarity: Your brain finds comfort in doing things the way they’ve always been done. When you think about delegating or handing off tasks, it feels unfamiliar and, therefore, risky. Your brain resists this change, preferring to stick with what’s comfortable—even if that comfort is causing you stress.

Fear of losing control: A lot of the time, you might hesitate to delegate because you’re worried the task won’t be done correctly. You think, ‘If I don’t do it, it won’t be done right.’ This need for control keeps you holding onto tasks that could be done by others, adding more pressure to your plate. But holding onto that control isn’t really helping; it’s just leading to more stress.

Guilt and the need to please: You might also feel guilty about handing tasks off, especially if you’re someone who’s used to taking on a lot. You worry about letting people down or not meeting their expectations. That guilt convinces you that taking on more is the right thing to do, even when it’s pushing you toward burnout.

Fear of change and uncertainty: Change is hard, and when you start delegating, it means you’re changing the way you manage your tasks. Your brain prefers the certainty of handling everything yourself, even if it’s overwhelming. It might tell you, ‘This is just the way it has to be,’ making it difficult to break free from the habit of doing too much.

So, the next time you look at your to-do list, I want you to ask yourself, ‘Is this something that only I can do?’ If the answer is no, then it’s time to consider delegating or eliminating it altogether. 

Remember, trying to handle everything on your own isn’t a sign of good time management—it’s a fast track to stress, overwhelm, and burnout. The more you can let go of tasks that aren’t truly yours, the more time and energy you’ll have for the things that matter most.

Your Brain Gets Automatically Overwhelmed By To-Do Lists

Let’s face it—just looking at a long to-do list can make you feel overwhelmed. It’s like the moment you sit down, glance at that never-ending list of tasks, and your brain immediately goes into panic mode. That’s not your imagination; there’s actually science behind why this happens.

When your brain sees a long list, it feels threatened, triggering a stress response. Instead of focusing, you freeze or avoid hard tasks. Your brain tries to protect you from stress but ends up causing procrastination instead.

I’m sure you’ve experienced this before—your list is full, you’re overwhelmed, and suddenly, you find yourself doing anything but the most important tasks. It’s like your brain is saying, ‘Let’s just focus on the easy stuff right now,’ even though deep down, you know it’s not what you need to be doing. That’s not a flaw in your character; that’s just how the brain works when it’s overwhelmed.

But here’s the thing: even though we know that long to-do lists overwhelm our brain, it’s still hard to break the habit of overloading ourselves. There are several reasons why it feels so challenging to manage that sense of overwhelm, and they’re all tied to how our brain works.

Your brain’s avoidance mechanism: Your brain naturally avoids discomfort, so when faced with a long list, it looks for easy distractions—like checking your phone. This keeps you in a cycle of procrastination instead of focusing on bigger tasks.

Fear of failure or perfectionism: For a lot of people, especially accountants, perfectionism plays a huge role in procrastination. Your brain might tell you, ‘If I can’t do it perfectly, I shouldn’t start at all.’ This fear of not doing something well enough leads to putting off tasks that feel too big or important, which only adds to your overwhelm.

Lack of clarity and overwhelm: When tasks on your list feel too vague or too large, your brain has no clear starting point. This lack of clarity increases the sense of overwhelm because you don’t know where to begin, and so, the default is to do nothing—or to stick to the smaller, easier tasks.

The instant gratification trap: Your brain loves quick wins. So, when faced with a hard or time-consuming task, it’s easy to gravitate toward things that give immediate satisfaction, like clearing your inbox or tidying up. It feels productive in the moment, but it’s actually a distraction from the tasks that move the needle forward.

Misjudging time and effort: Your brain often underestimates how much time a task will take, which leads to the belief that you can ‘do it later.’ The problem is that this misjudgment makes the task pile up, and when the deadline starts looming, the stress becomes overwhelming. This just adds fuel to the procrastination fire.

So, if you ever find yourself stuck, staring at your to-do list and feeling paralyzed, just remember—this is how your brain naturally reacts to overwhelm. The key isn’t to push through or do more; it’s about understanding how your brain works so you can stop feeling like you’re constantly fighting against it. 

Crossing Things Off Your To-Do List Is NOT Time Management

The third thing you need to know is that crossing things off your to-do list is NOT real time management. Sure, it feels good to check off tasks, but that doesn’t mean you’ve managed your time effectively

Here’s why: just getting things done doesn’t necessarily mean you’re making meaningful progress. Many people focus on easy or low-priority tasks just for that sense of accomplishment, but that leaves the high-impact work—the tasks that truly make you productive—untouched. 

As I mentioned earlier, it leads to the feeling of being busy, but not productive.

So, let’s get real—just because you’re crossing things off your to-do list doesn’t mean you’re managing your time. True time management goes way beyond checking boxes. It’s all about using your time intentionally and focusing on what really matters. Let’s break it down:

Effective Time Blocking: One of the biggest game-changers for managing your time is learning how to time block. Why? Because a to-do list is static—it doesn’t tell you when to do each task. Without time blocking, you’re left guessing when to tackle your work, which can lead to a lot of wasted time. Time blocking, on the other hand, means deciding in advance when each task will happen, making sure your day is efficient. I like to explain it to my clients as making ‘reservations’ on your calendar, ensuring you don’t get overbooked.

Dealing with Procrastination: To-do lists don’t help when it comes to procrastination. They just sit there, waiting for you to get things done, but they don’t address the mental roadblocks that hold you back—things like fear or lack of motivation. That’s why it’s so easy to keep pushing the hard tasks to ‘tomorrow,’ while the real work keeps piling up.

Prioritizing: Another big piece of time management is learning how to prioritize. The problem with lists is that they don’t help you figure out what’s most important. On paper, everything looks equally urgent, and that’s just how your brain works—it sees everything on the list as needing attention right now. The result? You spend too much time on the low-priority stuff, leaving the high-impact work undone. Without clear priorities, you end up wasting effort.

Handling Interruptions: To-do lists can’t adapt when life throws you interruptions, and let’s face it, that happens all the time. When things come up unexpectedly, your list doesn’t shift with you, and you end up feeling like you’re falling behind. Effective time management means having the flexibility and tools to handle those interruptions while still staying focused on what’s most important.

Guaranteeing Follow-Through: It’s one thing to have a list of tasks, but it’s another thing to actually follow through on them. To-do lists might make you feel productive, but they don’t guarantee that the most important work gets done. You can spend hours checking off the smaller tasks and still avoid the big ones. Without a system in place that holds you accountable, it’s easy to stay busy but never truly productive.

Delegating When Necessary: As I mentioned earlier, part of managing your time well is knowing when to delegate. A to-do list doesn’t help you figure out which tasks are yours to handle and which ones can be passed off. It gives the illusion that everything is equally important, but that’s not true. When you try to do it all yourself, you end up overwhelmed. Delegating frees up your time for the tasks that really matter and helps you manage your energy better.

Setting and Sticking to Boundaries: Time management isn’t just about getting things done—it’s also about protecting your time. A list doesn’t help you set boundaries with your time, and when you’re only relying on that, it’s easy for other people’s demands to creep into your day. Effective time management is about setting limits and sticking to them.

Email Management: Finally, we can’t talk about time management without mentioning email, especially for accountants. A to-do list doesn’t account for the massive time drain that is your inbox. Emails pile up and become just another overwhelming list to deal with, constantly distracting you from your most important work. You need strategies to handle your inbox efficiently so that it doesn’t take over your day.

The bottom line is this: crossing things off your to-do list might feel good, but it’s not real time management. Time management is about prioritizing, blocking your time, and following through on the work that matters most.

Not All Hours Are Created Equal

Okay, let’s talk about something that most of us tend to overlook when we’re trying to get through a long to-do list: not all hours are created equal. I think we’ve all had those days where we’re trying to push through a tough task, but it’s just not happening. It’s frustrating, right? You’re staring at your screen, willing yourself to get it done, but your brain is just not cooperating.

Here’s the thing—your energy, focus, and productivity levels aren’t the same throughout the day. Some hours, you’re energized and sharp, ready to tackle the big stuff. Other times, you’re dragging and can barely get through a simple email. But the problem with to-do lists is that they treat every task and every hour as if they’re exactly the same.

That’s why you end up scheduling complicated, high-energy tasks for times when you’re mentally drained, or you waste your best hours on low-priority tasks like clearing out your inbox. It’s not that you’re doing something wrong; it’s just that you’re not aligning your tasks with your natural energy levels. So, instead of focusing on when you’re doing the work, you’re just trying to power through your list, hour by hour. And we all know how that ends—frustration, burnout, and not much progress

Here are some of the issues that working off a to-do list creates with your time and energy:

Ignoring energy peaks and valleys: Most people plan their day as if their energy levels stay constant, but that’s not how our brains work. We all have natural peaks and valleys in our energy throughout the day. Ignoring this means you might be trying to tackle high-focus work during a low-energy period, which leads to stress and low-quality results.

Wasting peak hours on low-priority tasks: Without knowing when you’re at your best, it’s easy to waste your most productive hours on busywork—like responding to emails or handling administrative tasks. By the time you get around to the high-priority items, your energy is zapped. This is why it feels like you’re working hard but not getting the important stuff done.

Trying to push through mental fatigue: Your brain isn’t designed to be ‘on’ all the time. When you’re mentally drained, your focus drops, your decision-making suffers, and tasks take way longer than they should. Trying to power through when your brain is fatigued just ends up creating more stress and taking more time than necessary.

Overestimating your capacity: To-do lists can make it seem like you can get everything done if you just push a little harder. This mindset causes you to overestimate what you can realistically accomplish in a day. By the end, you feel exhausted and discouraged because you’re falling short of expectations that weren’t reasonable in the first place.

No built-in flexibility: To-do lists often lack flexibility for handling shifts in your energy levels. They assume you’ll have the same focus and drive at 4 p.m. as you did at 9 a.m., which just isn’t true. When you try to stick rigidly to a list that doesn’t account for these natural changes, you end up feeling like you’re constantly falling behind.

The bottom line? It’s not just what you’re doing—it’s when you’re doing it. The hours where you’re at your best are your most valuable asset, so they should be reserved for your highest-impact work. The goal isn’t to fill every hour with tasks; it’s to make sure you’re using your best hours for the work that really matters.

If You Don’t Know How to Manage Your Mind, You Don’t Know How to Manage Your Time

Now, this is the part that ties everything together. We’ve talked about delegating, managing overwhelm, knowing the difference between being busy and being productive, and understanding your energy levels. 

But here’s the thing—none of that really matters if you don’t know how to manage your mind. Because if you don’t know how to manage your mind, you don’t know how to manage your time.

Here’s why: everything you do, or don’t do, starts with a thought. Your thoughts create your feelings, and those feelings drive your actions. 

If your mind is full of thoughts like, ‘There’s too much to do,’ or ‘I’ll never get this all done,’ you’re going to feel overwhelmed, and that feeling will drive actions like procrastinating, avoiding tasks, or jumping from one thing to another without focus. 

The result? Your to-do list gets longer, your stress increases, and you feel like you’re constantly running behind.

So, the real key to mastering time management is mastering your mindset. If you can manage your thoughts, you can manage your feelings, and ultimately, you can manage your time. But, of course, there are obstacles to doing this—let’s talk about them.

Default negative thinking: Our brains are wired to focus on the negative. When you see your to-do list, your brain highlights what’s overwhelming, which leads to stress and keeps you stuck.

Hard to break old habits: Your brain likes familiarity, and once you’ve established a habit—like always thinking, ‘I don’t have enough time,’ or ‘I have to do everything myself’—it’s hard to break out of it. These thought patterns become automatic, and unless you actively work to change them, they’ll keep running in the background, controlling your actions and your time.

Getting busy instead of productive: When overwhelmed, it’s easier to focus on small, feel-good tasks rather than the ones that truly matter. But being busy doesn’t equal being productive, and without managing your mindset, you’ll keep falling into this cycle.

No lasting change: You’ve probably tried different time management techniques before, and maybe they worked for a while, but then you found yourself back in the same overwhelmed state. That’s because no matter how great a system is, if you don’t change the way you think, your brain will always revert to its old habits. Mindset is the key to making lasting changes in how you manage your time.

So, if you want to take control of your time, you have to start by taking control of your mind. The way you think about your time and your tasks directly affects how you handle them. Mastering your mindset is the real secret to effective time management—it’s the foundation that everything else builds on.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Getting A Better Handle On Time Management

Now, I know I’ve talked a lot about the ineffectiveness of to-do lists, but here’s the thing—you don’t want your brain cluttered like an overflowing closet of things to do. You want all those thoughts and tasks out of your head and onto paper. 

The truth is, your brain is for processing, not storing. So yes, a to-do list is helpful for getting those swirling thoughts organized. But that’s only step one. From there, you need to understand what real time management looks like.

So, if to-do lists aren’t as effective as we’ve been led to believe, then what is? That’s the big question, and it’s something I’ve been studying for years. It’s also why I created The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program—because I saw firsthand how shifting your approach to time management can completely transform how you handle your workload.

I’ve worked with a lot of accountants who were stuck in the same cycle—long to-do lists, constant stress, and never enough time. And I’ve seen how powerful it is when they learn to manage their minds, prioritize their time effectively, and focus on the tasks that matter most. Let me share a story about one of my coaching clients who made an incredible transformation.

This client, like many of you, was juggling a mountain of tasks every day. Her to-do list was endless, and she always felt like she was falling behind, no matter how much she got done. She was crossing things off but never really making progress on the bigger, high-impact work that would move her career forward. 

After working together, she learned how to manage her brain’s natural tendencies toward overwhelm and procrastination. She started using her time more intentionally—blocking out periods for focused work and learning to delegate what wasn’t hers to handle. Within a few weeks, she wasn’t just getting through her list—she was actually creating space for the kind of work that truly mattered.

And here’s the most powerful part—she wasn’t more ‘productive’ in the traditional sense. She wasn’t doing more things; she was just doing the right things at the right time, and that’s what made all the difference.

That all started with a Time Management Audit which I’ll discuss in a minute.  Now I want to share the key takeaway and action item for this week.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The biggest takeaway I want you to remember is this: to-do lists are NOT time management.  They’re a starting point to make sure things don’t fall through the cracks, but they are not effectively managing your time.

Time management is about focusing on what really matters, aligning your tasks with your energy, and learning to manage your mind so that you stay in control, not your list.

So, here’s your action item: this week, I want you to start paying attention to how you’re using your time. Take a look at your to-do list and ask yourself, ‘Am I doing the right things at the right time?’ If you find that you’re spending your best hours on low-impact tasks, it’s time to make a shift. Block off time for the important things and see how that changes your day.

And if you’re ready to take this to the next level, let me explain how a Time Management Audit can help you get clarity on exactly where your time is going and how to make those critical shifts to become a Smarter Accountant.  The truth is that time management is not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing, especially for accountants.

That’s why during your Time Management Audit, we’ll spend 30 minutes on a Zoom call diving into your current time management habits and uncover what’s really keeping you from being as productive as you’d like.

I’ll help you identify the key areas where you’re getting stuck, whether it’s prioritizing tasks, dealing with constant interruptions, procrastinating, or feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list. 

Again, since time management is not one size fits all for accountants, this call will give you personalized suggestions.  It’s all about giving you insight into your current habits and showing you how a few changes can lead to more control, less stress, and a more balanced approach to your work and life. 

If today’s episode hit home, let’s talk. Schedule a call, and I’ll help you go from stressed to smarter, with a time management system that works specifically for accountants. You can book your Time Management Audit at https://thesmarteraccountant.com/time-audit/

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed everything you need to know about to-do lists.  

So 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, we’re diving into one of my favorite topics—time. It’s our most valuable asset, yet it’s often the thing we struggle most to manage.

As the months roll by and the calendar fills up, we’ve all felt that familiar knot in our stomachs. The closer we get to year-end reporting or tax season, the longer our to-do lists seem to get. Emails pile up, deadlines creep closer, and the stress keeps rising.

It almost feels like time is speeding up, doesn’t it? Before you know it, those critical deadlines are staring you in the face. Sound familiar?

For a lot of us, this is just part of the job—the pressure comes in waves throughout the year. But why does it always feel like there’s never enough time? Why does the stress build up like a pressure cooker ready to blow?

We’ve all been there—juggling clients, drowning in paperwork, and trying to handle what feels like a never-ending stream of emails. And let’s not forget about the constant interruptions—those phone calls, meetings, and last-minute requests that throw your whole day off course.

That’s just the reality of being an accountant, right? But that doesn’t make it any less overwhelming. Whether you’re gearing up for year-end, managing quarterly reports, or bracing for tax season, the demands of the job can leave you feeling stretched thin.

But what if managing all these demands could feel more balanced and less stressful? Imagine approaching your workday with a sense of calm and leaving the office feeling accomplished rather than exhausted.

How much more productive—and peaceful—would you be if you could cut down on that overwhelming feeling?

Here’s the good news: It’s not just a dream. Taking back control of your time is not only possible—it’s essential. And it can completely change how you experience your work as an accountant.

When you’re in charge of your time, you lower your stress and boost your productivity. You can start each day with a clear plan and end it feeling like you’ve truly made the most of your time.

To regain control and work smarter, not harder, it’s essential to first understand what’s causing the chaos. Let’s talk about one of the biggest contributors to overwhelm—information overload. 

The Overwhelm Of Information Overload

To take back control of your time, the first step is to figure out what’s been controlling it. Let’s pause for a second and think about just how much the world, especially the workplace, has changed.

If you’ve been an accountant for a while, like I have, you’ve probably noticed how different things are compared to a few decades ago. Back when I started at Deloitte in the early ’90s, we worked hard, but the pace was slower. The work environment wasn’t as chaotic, and distractions were minimal.

Of course, the job was still demanding, but it was a different kind of demand. We weren’t constantly juggling thousands of pieces of information all at once.

Between emails, text messages, Slack notifications, project management tools, social media updates—it feels like we’re trying to drink from a fire hose. No wonder so many accountants feel overwhelmed!

And one of the biggest signs of this overwhelm is the never-ending to-do list. Have you ever noticed how no matter how many tasks you check off, the list just keeps getting longer?

It’s like for every one thing you finish, two more pop up. And it’s not just on paper anymore. These to-do lists are everywhere—in your email, on sticky notes around your desk, in apps, and even floating around in your head.

Then there’s the email situation. Those overflowing inboxes make it feel like you’re drowning in unread messages, with new ones coming in faster than you can reply. And it’s not just work emails—there are newsletters, reminders, and all sorts of other things demanding your attention. It’s easy to feel like you’re constantly behind.

And let’s talk about reminders—both physical and digital. Sticky notes, phone notifications, calendar alerts—they’re everywhere. Instead of helping, they just add to the stress by constantly nudging you to get more done.

On top of all that, there’s the constant ping of digital notifications—your phone buzzing with a text, your computer chiming with a new email, or your watch vibrating with a reminder. These little distractions make it almost impossible to focus on what you’re doing, and getting back on track becomes a challenge.

So, what’s the result of all this? Confusion, frustration, and a whole lot of stress.

When you’re bombarded by information from so many places, it’s easy to feel scattered. You might find yourself jumping from one task to the next without making real progress—or worse, forgetting important details because your brain is juggling too much.

And this isn’t just something that affects you at work. When you’re overwhelmed all day, it’s hard to leave that stress behind when you clock out. It follows you home, making it tough to relax, enjoy time with your loved ones, or even get a good night’s sleep.

The bottom line is that this information overload is a huge source of stress for accountants today. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to stay that way.

You can take steps to manage all this information better, reduce the overwhelm, and take back control of your time—and your life.

The Power of Being Proactive

Let’s talk about the difference between being proactive and reactive, especially when it comes to accounting. It’s so easy to fall into a reactive mindset when you’re constantly dealing with deadlines, client demands, and the pressure to get everything done on time.

You might find yourself bouncing from one task to the next, just trying to keep up. When that happens, it’s easy to start thinking that the only way to handle the mountain of tasks in front of you is to work longer and harder.

But here’s the thing: more work doesn’t have to mean more stress.

When you’re in reactive mode, you’re letting everything around you—deadlines, last-minute requests—dictate how you spend your day. It can feel like you’re always just one step behind, trying to catch up.

The problem with this approach is that it often leads to burnout and that constant feeling of being overwhelmed. You might start to believe that there’s just not enough time in the day to get everything done, and that can be really frustrating.

But what if you could flip that around? What if you took a more proactive approach? Instead of letting the day’s demands control you, what if you could start planning ahead, setting your own deadlines, and deciding how to best use your time?

Being proactive means you’re the one in control of your schedule. You make intentional decisions about how to spend your time, instead of just reacting to whatever comes your way. It’s like being in the driver’s seat, steering your day instead of letting it steer you.

When you’re proactive, you’re not just responding to the demands of your job—you’re planning for them. You’re thinking ahead, which gives you time to focus on what really matters instead of feeling like you’re always racing against the clock.

The bottom line? By being proactive, you can lower your stress, boost your efficiency, and feel way more in control of both your work and your life.

Your Brain’s Role in Taking Back Control of Your Time

Let’s dive into the role your brain plays in all of this. The thing is, your brain is a powerful tool, but it doesn’t always work in your favor when it comes to managing time.

One of the biggest mistakes we make is using our brain like a storage unit—trying to keep track of all our tasks, deadlines, and information in our head. When your brain is overloaded with details, it’s no surprise that you start feeling overwhelmed and stressed.

The truth is, your brain wasn’t designed to hold onto all that information. It’s great at solving problems, analyzing data, and coming up with creative ideas—but it’s not so great at managing a long list of to-dos.

When you rely on your brain to remember everything, you’re not using it efficiently, and that’s when things start to slip through the cracks.

If you want to take back control of your time, you’ve got to start using your brain differently. This is where the more advanced part of your brain—what I like to call the “Supervising Parent”—comes in. This part of your brain is responsible for planning, decision-making, and self-control.

The Supervising Parent part of your brain helps you be more intentional and proactive with your time.

When you use this part of your brain to plan your day, you’re not just reacting to whatever comes your way. You’re making strategic decisions about how to handle your tasks in a way that helps you get more done while reducing stress.

This means setting priorities, breaking big projects into manageable steps, and scheduling your time in a way that actually works for you.

By understanding how your brain works, you can start using its strengths to your advantage and avoid its weaknesses. Instead of letting your brain get bogged down with too much information, you free it up to focus on what it does best: thinking critically and making smart decisions.

The bottom line is, learning to use your brain differently is the key to taking back control of your time and creating a more balanced, less stressful workday.

How to Use the Power of Being Proactive

Now that we’ve talked about why being proactive is so important and how your brain plays a role in managing your time, let’s get into some practical steps you can take to be more proactive.

The truth is, most accountants tend to be reactive, but being proactive is about making intentional decisions that help you stay ahead of the game—rather than always playing catch-up.

So, how do you do that? Let’s break it down into four simple steps.

Step 1: Make a Plan to Produce Specific Results – The first step to being proactive is making a plan that focuses on achieving specific results, not just staying busy. It’s easy to think that if you’re doing something, you’re being productive.

But here’s the reality: being busy doesn’t always mean being productive. If you’re just crossing tasks off your list without a clear goal, you might be spinning your wheels without really moving forward.

Instead, ask yourself what you want to accomplish by the end of the day, week, or month. What specific results are you aiming for? Once you know that, you can plan your tasks around those goals. This way, every task you complete brings you closer to where you want to be, and you’re not just filling your day with busywork.

Step 2: Make Your Own Deadlines – Deadlines are a big part of every accountant’s life, but they don’t always have to come from external sources. One of the best ways to be proactive is to set your own deadlines before the official ones.

When you do this, you give yourself some breathing room and reduce the stress of waiting until the last minute. By setting internal deadlines, you can break bigger projects into smaller, manageable tasks and tackle them one by one.

Not only does this help you stay on top of your workload, but it also gives you flexibility if something unexpected comes up. Plus, finishing tasks ahead of schedule can boost your confidence and make you feel more in control.

Step 3: Schedule Results on Your Calendar in Time Blocks – Once you’ve planned your results and set your deadlines, the next step is to schedule everything on your calendar in time blocks. This is where you can really take advantage of your brain’s strengths.

By scheduling specific tasks during the times of day when you’re most productive, you can work more efficiently and get more done in less time.

When you block time on your calendar, be realistic about how long tasks will take and don’t forget to include breaks and some downtime. It’s easy to underestimate how long things will take, so giving yourself a buffer helps prevent burnout.

Time-blocking also reduces decision fatigue because you’ve already decided when to do each task—now all you have to do is follow the plan.

Step 4: Follow the Plan – The last step is simple, but it’s where the real magic happens: follow the plan you’ve created. After you’ve taken the time to plan your results, set deadlines, and schedule your tasks, the key is to stick to it.

This is where being proactive pays off. By following the plan, you won’t have to make decisions on the fly all day, which saves you mental energy and keeps you on track.

Sticking to your plan also builds momentum. Every task you complete brings you closer to your goals, which motivates you to keep going. And because you’ve already prioritized and scheduled your time, you’re less likely to get distracted or derailed.

Remember, being proactive isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Even if things don’t go exactly as planned, having a proactive mindset and a clear plan helps you stay on course, no matter what bumps you hit along the way.

By using these steps, you’ll be able to take control of your time, reduce stress, and create a more balanced, productive workday.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

As you start embracing a more proactive approach to managing your time, it’s important to watch out for a few common pitfalls that can trip you up along the way. The good news? With a little awareness and the right strategies, you can easily avoid these traps and stay on track.

Let’s take a closer look at two of the most common challenges and how to handle them.

The Trap of “Not Enough Time” – One of the biggest obstacles to being proactive is believing there’s just not enough time in the day. We’ve all been there—swamped with work and deadlines looming, it can feel impossible to carve out time to plan.

You might think, “How can I possibly make time to plan when I’m barely keeping up with everything else?” It’s a valid concern, but here’s the thing: the idea that you don’t have time to plan is actually an illusion.

When you’re caught up in the hustle of your day, it can seem counterintuitive to stop and plan. But spending that time upfront can save you hours of stress and scrambling later.

Think of it like this: when you plan proactively, you’re creating a roadmap for your day or week. Instead of wasting time figuring out what to do next or dealing with last-minute surprises, you’ve already set a clear path that helps you move smoothly from one task to the next.

Yes, it might take a little extra effort at first to get into the habit, but the payoff is huge. You’ll find that being proactive actually helps you get more done in less time—and with way less stress.

So, the next time you catch yourself thinking, “I don’t have time to plan,” remind yourself that planning is what ultimately creates more time.

Overcoming Lower Brain Resistance – Another challenge you might face when trying to be more proactive is resistance from your own brain—specifically, the lower, more primitive part of it that I like to call The Toddler.

This part of your brain is designed to keep you safe and comfortable, which is great for survival—but not so great when you’re trying to create new habits. Your lower brain resists anything that feels like extra effort, especially if it’s new or unfamiliar.

You’ve probably felt this resistance before. It’s that little voice that says, “Do I really need to plan my day? Can’t I just wing it like I always do?” Or maybe it shows up as procrastination, where you keep putting off the very things that would help you get ahead.

This resistance is totally normal, but that doesn’t mean you have to give in to it.

The key to overcoming your lower brain’s resistance is to start small and build momentum. You don’t need to overhaul your whole routine overnight.

Instead, try adding proactive habits into your day little by little. Maybe you start by spending just 10 minutes each morning planning out your top priorities for the day. Or maybe you set a small goal, like planning one task ahead each day.

As you start to see the benefits—like getting more done and feeling less stressed—your lower brain will start to ease up. The resistance will fade as your new habits become second nature, and you’ll find it easier to stick to your proactive approach.

Remember, your lower brain (The Toddler) is just trying to protect you, but you are in control. By taking small steps and building up your proactive habits, you can train your brain to work with you, not against you.

Trust me, once you get your brain on board, you’ll be able to take back control of your time.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: From Overwhelmed To In Control

I’ve done a lot of work with accountants on better time management and have made a transformation in my own life, but let me share about one particular coaching client.

He came to me feeling constantly overwhelmed by his workload. No matter how hard he worked, he always felt like he was falling behind, reacting to deadlines rather than managing them.

Once he went through The Smarter Accountant Program and learned how to manage his brain, we then worked on how to better manage his time.  He learned that by setting aside one hour on Sunday and just 10 minutes each morning to plan his day, he could get more done in less time. 

Instead of waiting for external deadlines to push him into action, he started setting his own deadlines and prioritizing his tasks more effectively. It wasn’t easy at first, but soon he noticed a difference.

As he continued trying more proactive habits, he noticed that his stress levels dropped. He was no longer scrambling to keep up; instead, he was ahead of the game. 

His workdays became more manageable, and he even found himself leaving the office on time, feeling accomplished rather than drained.

I hope that this client’s story shows that small changes in how you manage your time can lead to big improvements in your professional and personal life.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key to reducing stress and improving efficiency as an accountant is in taking a proactive approach to managing your time. By planning ahead, setting your own deadlines, and using your brain strategically, you can regain control over your schedule and create a more balanced, less overwhelming workday.

Taking back control of your time means shifting from a reactive mindset to a proactive one, where you’re not just responding to external pressures but intentionally designing your day to work for you. It’s about making deliberate choices that prioritize what truly matters, professionally and personally.

This week ask yourself: “What’s one small, proactive change I can make today to take back control of my time and reduce the stress I’m feeling?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed taking back control of your time.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply, whether it’s at work or at home.

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

So 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.

We all deal with problems, right? As accountants, we’re used to solving all kinds of issues for other people. But when it comes to our own lives, things can feel a little more overwhelming.

Have you ever had a problem that just seemed too big to handle? Maybe you didn’t know where to start, and it felt like it was never going to get better.

Now, imagine this: What if you could handle any problem—big or small—with a sense of calm and confidence? How much easier would things be if you knew exactly how to deal with whatever life throws your way?

Let’s be real—most of us have freaked out when we’re hit with a new problem. Our brains start spinning, we feel stressed, and suddenly it feels like the problem is impossible to solve.

But what if you didn’t panic? What if you could stay calm and focused, and actually think of better solutions? Imagine being able to see problems as something you can handle, not something that’s out to get you.

Think back to a time when you were doing something you really enjoyed—maybe a work project that lights you up or a hobby you love—and everything just clicked. Ideas flowed, and solutions came easily, right?

That’s the kind of mindset I want to help you tap into when facing any problem. When you approach things with an open mind and curiosity, you can unlock your brain’s full power.

But how do you get into that mindset more often?

Here’s the key: You need a plan. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to get stuck, miss steps, or feel overwhelmed. A structured approach helps you stay organized and find solutions more easily.

Whether it’s a personal problem or something at work, knowing how to solve any issue with a clear plan makes life way easier—and a lot less stressful.

If you are ready to try a new way of solving your problems, let’s start with the best formula I’ve found for tackling any problem head-on.

The Formula Behind Every Solution

Have you ever noticed how some people just seem to handle life’s problems so easily, while others get stuck? It makes you wonder—what’s their secret?

Well, there’s actually a formula that can help you solve any problem, and it’s called “The Model.” If you’ve read my book, “The Smarter Accountant,” you might remember me talking about it in more detail. But basically, this formula is one of the best tools out there for solving any problem—big or small.

The reason The Model works so well is that it breaks things down into simple steps, helping you see how your thoughts and actions lead to your results. So, what is The Model, and how does it work?

The Model has 5 parts: Circumstances, Thoughts, Feelings, Actions, and Results. You can remember it as CTFAR.

Here’s a quick rundown of each part:

Circumstances: These are just the facts of any situation. They’re neutral, meaning they don’t have any feelings attached to them. Why does this matter? Because when you focus on the facts without mixing in your emotions, you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed.

Thoughts: These are the stories you tell yourself about the circumstances. We all have tons of thoughts every day, and most of them run on autopilot. But here’s the thing: these thoughts change how we see things and affect what we do.

Feelings: These are the emotions that come from your thoughts. If you’ve ever noticed how your mood shifts depending on what you’re thinking, that’s what this is about. Once you understand the connection between your thoughts and feelings, you can start to manage them better.

Actions: This is where your feelings push you to do—or not do—certain things. So if you’re wondering why you act a certain way in different situations, it’s because of how you’re feeling in that moment.

Results: Finally, your actions create the results you see in your life. If you look at where you are right now, those results are tied to your thoughts, feelings, and actions.

When you understand The Model, it’s like having a map for your mind. It helps you take a step back, look at the situation clearly, and make changes to get better results.

So, how do you actually use this formula in real life? Let’s break it down. 

Getting Started With Solving Any Problem

Now that you know what The Model is, it’s time to actually use it. Understanding it is one thing, but the real magic happens when you apply it to your own life. So, how do you start solving your own problems?

First, you need to pick a problem. I know, that sounds easier said than done. But the trick is to choose one specific thing to focus on. It doesn’t have to be a huge problem; it could be something small that’s been bugging you.

Think about what’s been on your mind lately. Is there something stressing you out—maybe at work or at home? As accountants, we’re used to handling a lot at once, so I’m sure you have plenty to pick from!

Maybe it’s a deadline that’s getting close, a tough conversation you’ve been avoiding, or even something small like a messy room that’s been driving you nuts. Whatever it is, just pick one thing. Sometimes fixing the small stuff can make a big difference in how you feel overall.

Once you’ve picked your problem, it’s time to change how you think about it. Here’s something I ask my clients all the time: What if the problem isn’t the real issue? What if it’s how you’re thinking about the problem that’s making it feel worse?

Our brains can sometimes make things seem bigger or scarier, especially when we’re stressed. Have you ever noticed how a situation feels worse just because of how you’re thinking about it? When you step back and look at your thoughts, you can start to see the problem for what it really is—not just how it feels in the moment.

So, ask yourself: How am I thinking about this problem? Are my thoughts making it harder to solve? Am I focused on finding a solution or just stuck in the “this is a huge mess” mindset?

Once you’re aware of how you’re thinking, you can challenge those thoughts and change them. Instead of focusing on what’s going wrong, think about what you can do to make things better. You’d be surprised how much that simple shift can lead to new ideas and solutions you hadn’t thought of before.

In the end, getting started with solving problems is all about taking the first step and being willing to see things differently. So, pick your problem and in a few minutes I’ll explain how to approach it in a way that feels more manageable.

The Brain’s Role in Problem-Solving

Now that you’ve picked a problem to focus on, let’s talk about what’s really happening in your brain when you’re dealing with a challenge. Have you ever wondered why your brain seems to go into overdrive when a problem comes up?

Here’s what’s going on—your brain is actually wired for survival, not for solving modern-day problems. Way back when, our ancestors had to deal with life-or-death situations, so their brains learned to react fast—basically, fight or run away. Even though we’re not running from wild animals anymore, our brains still react the same way when we’re faced with a problem.

So, when something goes wrong, your brain might go into panic mode. You might feel your heart race, your stomach tighten, or your palms get sweaty. That’s your brain thinking it’s in survival mode, which makes it hard to think clearly or figure out what to do next.

But here’s the good news—it doesn’t have to be this way. Once you understand how your brain works, you can train it to handle problems better and stay calm.

Think of your brain as having two parts: the “panic” brain and the “problem-solving” brain. The panic brain reacts fast, but it’s not so good at coming up with smart solutions. That’s where the problem-solving brain comes in. This part of your brain helps you think clearly, make plans, and deal with problems calmly and creatively.

You’ve probably noticed this before—when you step away from a stressful situation, take a deep breath, or even sleep on it, suddenly the problem doesn’t seem as bad. That’s because your problem-solving brain finally got a chance to take over.

The best part? You can train your brain to switch from panic to problem-solving more often. With practice, you can start rewiring your brain to react differently. 

This is where tools like The Model really help. The Model shows you how your thoughts, feelings, actions, and results are connected, which helps you shift from feeling stressed to thinking strategically.

I’ll go over this more in a minute, but the next time you feel that panic setting in, remember—you have the power to switch gears. By taking a step back, calming down, and using tools like The Model, you can approach problems in a smarter, more creative way.

Just imagine how different things could be if you could regularly tap into that problem-solving part of your brain. It’s not about getting rid of problems; it’s about learning to handle them in a better way.

. 

Using The Formula To Rewire Your Brain for Better Problem-Solving

Here’s the exciting part—your brain can actually change! It has something called neuroplasticity, which means it can form new pathways and learn new ways of responding to problems. In other words, you can train your brain to handle problems better over time.

So, how do you start rewiring your brain for better problem-solving? It all begins with awareness. That’s where The Model comes in. By using The Model, you can understand why you’re thinking, feeling, and acting the way you are—and, more importantly, how to change it.

Now, let’s use The Model to tackle the problem you picked earlier.

Here’s how you can start:

Identify the Circumstances: Start by clearly figuring out the facts of the situation. What’s really happening with the problem you chose? Separate the facts from your opinions or feelings. When you focus on the neutral facts, it helps you see the problem for what it is—not as something your brain might be making bigger than it actually is.

Examine Your Thoughts: Once you know the facts, look at your thoughts about the problem. What are you telling yourself about it? Are these thoughts based on fear, negativity, or stress? By becoming aware of these thought patterns, you can start to question and change them.

Assess Your Feelings: Pay attention to how your thoughts about this problem are making you feel. Are you anxious, frustrated, or overwhelmed? It’s important to realize that your feelings come from your thoughts. This matters because those feelings will influence what you do next.

Analyze Your Actions: Your feelings drive your actions—or sometimes, keep you from taking any action at all. What are you doing (or not doing) because of how you’re feeling? When you understand this, you can see how your thoughts and feelings are influencing your behavior, and where you can make changes.

Evaluate Your Results: Finally, look at the results you’re getting with this problem. Are they what you want? If not, go back and look at your thoughts and feelings. When you change your thoughts, you’ll change how you feel and what you do—and that’s how you get different results.

By practicing this process with the problem you chose, you’ll start to rewire your brain to approach challenges in a new way. Instead of getting stuck in stress or negative thinking, you’ll develop a more solution-focused mindset.

Let’s take an example accountants can relate to:

Imagine the problem you picked is a tight deadline for a project. The fact is, the deadline is in two days. But your initial thought might be, “There’s no way I can finish this!” That thought makes you feel anxious and stressed. 

Because of those feelings, you may start procrastinating or distracting yourself, which makes the situation worse. The result? You’re scrambling at the last minute and might even miss the deadline.

But if you use The Model, you can shift your thinking. Instead of focusing on “I can’t do this,” you could think, “I’ll break this project into smaller steps and work through them one at a time.” 

That new thought can make you feel more confident and focused, which will lead you to take action, stick to your plan, and finish the project on time. The result? You meet the deadline without all the extra stress.

The bottom line is that the more you practice The Model with real problems like this, the better your brain gets at staying calm and finding solutions.

Gaining Control Over Problems

Let’s talk about some ways to get control over problems. When you’re dealing with challenges, it’s easy to get stuck in stress and negativity. But what if the real issue is the way you’re thinking about the problem?

One way to change how you see problems is to think about “rich people problems.” Imagine the kinds of problems wealthy people might have—like missing a nail appointment or getting a rip in their hot tub cover. These problems seem small, right? So why do we let small issues in our own lives feel so overwhelming?

The point of thinking about “rich people problems” isn’t to make fun of anyone’s struggles, but to help you put things into perspective. When you look at your own problems through this lens, you might realize that what you’re dealing with isn’t as big as it seems.

For example, my husband and I were watching the Olympics, and there was a commercial about a Paralympic athlete with no legs playing basketball. My husband turned to me and said, “That pain in my shoulder feels like a small problem right now. Look at what he deals with every day.”

By realizing that some of our problems are smaller than we think, you can start to focus on finding solutions instead of getting stuck in the problem.

Another way to get control over a problem is to ask yourself, “What would I suggest if someone else had this problem?” When we’re stuck in our own issues, our emotions can make it hard to think clearly. But when you imagine someone else in your situation, it’s easier to think more logically and come up with helpful solutions.

For example, let’s say you’re feeling stressed about having too much work. Now, imagine a friend comes to you with the same issue. You might suggest they break the work into smaller tasks, figure out what’s most important, or ask for help. By giving advice to someone else, you might find the same solution that works for you.

This technique works because it helps you step out of your emotions and think more clearly about how to solve the problem.

Another important tool is to pay attention to the questions you ask yourself. The questions you focus on shape how you see and deal with problems. If you’re asking yourself, “Why me?” or “Why is this happening?” you’ll probably feel stuck and helpless.

But if you ask yourself, “How can I make this easier?” or “What can I do to fix this?” you start focusing on solutions.

For example, if you’re swamped with deadlines and thinking, “Why does this always happen to me?” you’ll feel overwhelmed and stuck. But if you switch to asking, “How can I make this easier?” or “What steps can I take to get back on track?” you’ll start thinking about things like organizing your tasks or asking for help. This simple shift in questions helps you go from feeling helpless to taking action.

Another powerful technique is the “So What?” approach. This means asking yourself, “So what?” when something goes wrong to help you get perspective. It helps you decide if the problem is really worth all your energy. Often, you’ll realize the problem isn’t as big as you thought.

For example, let’s say you sent an email with a typo to a client. At first, you might feel embarrassed and think, “I messed up, this looks so bad!” But if you ask yourself, “So what? Is this really a big deal?” you might realize the typo doesn’t affect the main message, and it can be easily fixed with a follow-up email. The problem suddenly feels less important, and you save yourself from unnecessary stress.

Lastly, one of the best ways to gain control over problems is to separate facts from thoughts. Facts are objective and can be proven, while thoughts are your personal interpretation.

For example, if you think, “My boss is unfair,” that’s not a fact—it’s your opinion. A fact would be, “My boss gave me extra work this week.”

When you can separate facts from thoughts, you avoid extra stress and focus on what you can control. Once you realize your thoughts are shaping how you see the problem, you can start to change them. This allows you to approach the problem more logically.

The bottom line is, you have more control over your problems than you might think. By changing your thoughts, you change what the problem means to you.

If you see a problem as impossible, it’s going to feel that way. But if you see it as a chance to grow and learn, you’ll be more motivated to find solutions and work through it.

By shifting your focus from problems to solutions, changing your perspective, and questioning how important the issue is, you can change the way you handle challenges.

So, imagine this: What would it be like to face your problems with confidence and creativity, knowing you have the tools to solve them? The good news is, the power to change how you experience and deal with problems is already within you—it all starts with your mindset.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Learning To Solve Any Problem

I want to share how one of my clients learned how to solve any problem. Like many of you, this client often felt overwhelmed by the pressures of her job. She had a lot of client accounts to manage, and the financial issues she was dealing with seemed to pile up faster than she could handle them.

Whenever a problem came up, her first reaction was stress and frustration. She kept thinking things like, “Why does this always happen to me?” and “I’ll never get through this.” Focusing on the problems made her feel stuck in a cycle of anxiety, which hurt her ability to get her work done.

After we worked together in The Smarter Accountant Program, she started to see that solving problems could be much easier. By using The Model and shifting her mindset from focusing on problems to finding solutions, she started to see challenges as opportunities.

Instead of asking, “Why is everything going wrong?” she began asking herself, “What can I do to fix this?” or “How can I see this differently?” This simple change helped her go from feeling stressed and frustrated to feeling curious and open to new ideas.

For example, one time she found a mistake in a client’s report. Instead of panicking, she practiced separating the facts from her thoughts about the situation. This helped her calmly figure out the actual issue and create a plan to fix it, without letting her negative thoughts get in the way.

She also learned to ask, “So what?” to put things in perspective. This helped her realize that not every problem was a big deal, and she didn’t need to stress over every little thing.

The best part? She became more proactive and focused on solutions. This change didn’t just make her work life better—it also reduced her stress, which allowed her to enjoy her personal time more.

What she didn’t realize was how much her stress was affecting her at home, and how it was impacting her family. She even told me that her husband wanted to thank me for the program because he felt like he finally got his wife back.

So, as you can see, even though we all have to deal with problems, solving them can be easier than you think when you learn how to manage your brain along the way.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway from this episode is that solving problems isn’t just about using a specific technique—it’s about changing the way you think. By using tools like The Model and having a structured approach, you can shift from feeling stressed and anxious to finding creative solutions and growing from challenges.

Understanding how your brain works and practicing new ways of thinking helps you deal with problems more clearly and confidently. As an accountant, this skill is super important because it lets you handle both work and personal challenges with more strength and focus.

Remember, the power to change how you deal with problems is in your thoughts and mindset.

For this week, ask yourself: “What’s one specific problem I’d like to work on, and how can I use the techniques from this episode to come up with a plan to solve it?”

That’s all I have for you today, but before you go, I want you to think about one specific problem you’re dealing with right now—whether it’s at work or in your personal life. What would change if you could approach that problem with calm, confidence, and a clear plan?

Imagine how much easier things could be if you knew exactly how to solve it, step by step.

You’ve worked hard to become an accountant; now it’s time to make being one easier.

If you’re struggling with any aspect of your career, why not take the first step toward a smarter approach? Head over to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me. Let’s tackle those challenges together.

And don’t forget to check back each week as we move you from feeling stressed and overwhelmed to becoming a Smarter Accountant.

In the meantime, go to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and take The Smarter Accountant Quiz. You’ll discover whether you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain and get a clear starting point for your transformation.

Also, if you’re finding value here, please spread the word to your fellow accountants. Together, we can shift how accountants think and work, changing the story of what’s possible in this 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 we all face but rarely discuss: the fear of failure. This fear can sneak into our lives and hold us back, especially when it comes to managing our time and setting goals. We get so caught up in the idea of perfection that we forget it’s okay to make mistakes.

I’ve been in the accounting world for decades, and along the way, I became a Professional Certified Coach for Accountants. My mission? To help accountants like you have easier, more successful careers and more fulfilling lives. 

One of the biggest things I’ve learned is that our fear of failure often stops us from even trying to improve. We become so paralyzed by the thought of not getting it right that we end up not trying at all. Sound familiar?

Let me share a little secret I’ve discovered through my years of coaching and personal experience: not all failures are created equal. That’s right! There are different types of failures, and understanding them can make a world of difference in how we approach our work and personal lives. 

What I’ve learned is that there are two types of failures – “escape fails” and “worthy fails.”

Escape fails are those moments when we let distractions, excuses, or procrastination take over. It’s when we justify not sticking to our plans because something else came up or we just didn’t feel like it. 

On the other hand, worthy fails are when we give something our best shot, but things don’t go as planned. These are the moments where we learn and grow the most, even if the immediate outcome wasn’t what we hoped for.

By redefining failure and learning to distinguish between these two types, we can start to see our missteps not as roadblocks but as stepping stones to success. This shift in perspective can transform how we manage our time, set our goals, and ultimately, how we live our lives.

Before I go further, I want you to consider a few questions:

• How often do you avoid setting goals because you’re afraid you might not achieve them?
• When you think about your past failures, do you see them as learning opportunities or just setbacks?
• Do you find yourself making excuses for not following through on your plans?
• How would your life change if you could see failure as a necessary part of growth rather than something to be feared?

Today I want to help you see failure in a completely different way.  I’m going to dive deep into the world of escape fails and worthy fails, and by the end of this episode, you’ll have a whole new way of looking at your challenges and opportunities. 

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for understanding the different types of failures, let’s dive into the role that fear of failure plays in our daily lives.

The Fear of Failure

The fear of failure is a sneaky little fear that impacts us in more ways than we might realize, especially when it comes to setting goals and managing our time. 

Have you ever avoided setting a goal because you were worried you might not reach it? Or maybe you’ve found yourself hesitating to even start a task because the thought of not doing it perfectly was just too overwhelming? If so, you’re not alone.

For accountants, this fear often ties back to our tendencies toward perfectionism. We’re trained to get the numbers right, to double-check our work, and to avoid mistakes at all costs. 

Now this is great when it comes to our professional responsibilities, but it can become a huge roadblock when we apply this perfectionist mindset to every aspect of our lives. We start to believe that anything less than perfect is unacceptable, and this belief keeps us from taking risks and trying new things.

Think about it this way – if you’re constantly worried about failing, how likely are you to set ambitious goals or try new time management techniques? Probably not very likely. 

This fear of failure can make us stick to what’s safe and familiar, even if it means staying stuck in a rut. It’s like we’d rather not try at all than risk not being perfect.

But the problem is that this fear doesn’t just impact our professional lives. It seeps into our personal lives too. 

When we’re afraid of failing, we might avoid trying new hobbies, not join that dating website, or avoid taking that dance class our spouse has been asking about.  This can leave us feeling unfulfilled and unhappy, both at work and at home.

I’ve even had coaching clients admit that they didn’t initially schedule a call with me or sign up for one of my programs because they were afraid of failing.  Their fear stopped them from doing something that they knew would help them professionally and personally.  

So, how often do you let the fear of failure keep you from setting goals or trying new things?

Are you holding yourself back from opportunities because you’re worried about not being perfect?

Really think about how this fear is impacting your professional growth and personal happiness.

Here’s the thing – acknowledging these fears is the first step toward overcoming them. Once we can recognize how the fear of failure and perfectionism are holding us back, we can start to make changes that will help us grow, both in our careers and in our personal lives.

Recognizing this fear is the first step, but what if we could see failure in a different light? Let’s explore how redefining failure can open up new possibilities.

The Hidden Value in Failure

Most of us see failure as this big, scary thing that’s out to get us. But what if I told you that failure could actually be your best friend? 

That’s right!  Failure doesn’t have to be a reason to quit; it can be a golden opportunity to learn and improve.

The first thing you need to do is shift your perspective. Instead of seeing failure as the end of the road, let’s start seeing it as a stepping stone. 

When we fail, it’s not a sign that we should give up. It’s a sign that something didn’t go as planned, and now we have the chance to figure out why and make it better next time. Every failure teaches us something valuable if we’re willing to look at it that way.

One of my favorite ways to look at failure is to say “plot twist”.  In other words, I was assuming a situation was going to go one way, but it didn’t, so just like in a movie or a book, the story had a plot twist that I just didn’t realize was going to happen. 

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting when it comes to failure – not all failures are created equal. As I shared earlier, in my coaching, I talk about two types of failures: escape fails and worthy fails. 

Understanding the difference between these can make a huge difference in how we approach things.

I’m going to discuss them both in more detail in a minute, but escape fails are those moments when we let ourselves off the hook. It’s when we give in to distractions, make excuses, or procrastinate. 

Think about the times you’ve planned to tackle a project but ended up scrolling through social media instead. Or when you justified not sticking to your schedule because something else seemed more urgent or easier to deal with. 

These are escape fails. They’re all about avoiding the task at hand because it feels too hard, boring, or uncomfortable.

On the flip side, worthy fails are the kind of failures we want to aim for. A worthy fail happens when you take action towards your goal, but things don’t go as planned. 

Maybe you tried a new time management technique, and it didn’t work out. Or you set a goal and didn’t quite hit it. 

The key here is that you took action, you learned something, and you can adjust your approach for next time. Worthy fails are about putting in the effort and learning from the experience, even if the result wasn’t what you expected.

So the next time you find yourself facing a potential failure, ask yourself: Is this an escape fail or a worthy fail? If it’s an escape fail, how can you turn it into a worthy fail? 

By embracing worthy fails, you’ll start to see failure not as something to fear, but as a necessary and valuable part of your journey to success.

Understanding failure is crucial, but did you know that your brain plays a significant role in how you experience and respond to it? Let’s explore how your mind influences these moments.

Your Brain’s Role in Escape Fails vs. Worthy Fails

Understanding your brain’s role can give you the tools to better manage your reactions and choices.

As I’ve shared on the podcast before, our brains are wired to avoid pain and seek pleasure. This makes perfect sense from an evolutionary perspective. 

Back in the day, avoiding danger (pain) and finding food or shelter (pleasure) were essential for survival. But in our modern world, this wiring can sometimes work against us, especially when it comes to managing our time and tackling challenging tasks.

The issue is that your lower, Toddler brain is the part that seeks immediate gratification and comfort. It’s impulsive and often driven by emotions. When faced with a difficult task, your Toddler brain might scream, “This is too hard! Let’s check email!”

On the other hand, your higher, Supervising Parent brain, is responsible for rational thinking, planning, and decision-making. This is the part of your brain that sets goals and understands the long-term benefits of sticking to a plan, even when it’s tough.

The reason I’m sharing this is because escape fails are driven by your Toddler brain. When you’re supposed to be working on that report but find yourself browsing the internet instead, that’s your Toddler brain in action. 

It’s seeking the immediate pleasure of distraction and avoiding the discomfort of the task at hand. This part of your brain is excellent at coming up with justifications for why it’s okay to procrastinate or abandon your plans. “Just five more minutes” or “I’ll do it later” are classic Toddler brain excuses.

Worthy fails, however, are the result of your higher, Supervising Parent brain taking the lead. When you attempt a challenging task, give it your best shot, and fall short, your Supervising Parent brain steps in to analyze what happened and learn from it. 

This part of your brain is capable of seeing failure as a valuable learning experience rather than a reason to quit. It understands that growth often comes from trying, failing, and trying again with new insights.

The good news is that you can train your brain to lean more towards worthy fails and less towards escape fails. Here are a few strategies:

Mindfulness and Awareness: Pay attention to when your Toddler brain is trying to take over. Simply being aware of this can help you make more conscious choices.

Planning and Scheduling: Use your Supervising Parent brain to set clear plans and schedules. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps to make them less overwhelming.

Positive Reinforcement: Reward yourself for taking steps towards worthy fails. Celebrate the effort and the learning, even if the outcome wasn’t perfect.

Reflection and Learning: After a worthy fail, take time to reflect. What did you learn? How can you apply this lesson next time?

Bottom line: By understanding your brain’s role in escape fails versus worthy fails, you can start to make choices that align more with your long-term goals and less with immediate comfort. 

Now that we’ve seen how our brain influences our failures, let’s take a closer look at the first type: escape fails. What exactly are they, and how do they hold us back?

Understanding Escape Fails Better

Escape fails happen when we give in to distractions or excuses instead of facing challenging tasks head-on. They’re all about avoiding discomfort in the moment, but they can have a big impact on our long-term success.

In other words, escape fails are those moments when you let yourself off the hook. It’s when you justify not sticking to your plans because something else seems more urgent or more appealing. 

Essentially, escape fails are about avoiding the hard stuff by choosing the easy way out.

Let me share a few examples to see how escape fails might show up in your day-to-day life.

The first example is justifying interruptions.  Imagine you’ve set aside a block of time to work on a crucial project. But then, an email from a client pops up. 

Instead of sticking to your plan, you convince yourself that the email can’t wait and dive into it, derailing your scheduled task. Sure, client emails are important, but do they always take precedence over your planned work?

The next example is rationalizing partial success.  Let’s say you’ve planned to complete a full financial report by the end of the day. You get halfway through and then decide to call it a day, telling yourself, “At least I got half of it done.” 

While it’s true that partial progress is better than none, consistently settling for less than what you planned can prevent you from reaching your full potential.

The next common example is procrastination disguised as productivity.  Let’s say you have a big presentation to prepare for, but instead, you spend hours organizing your desk or updating your spreadsheets. 

These tasks might be productive in a different context, but right now, they’re just a way to avoid the more challenging work.

The last example is blaming external factors.  Let’s say you intended to start a new time management system, but an unexpected meeting or a family commitment throws you off.

Instead of finding a way to adapt, you abandon the plan altogether, blaming the external factors for your failure to follow through.

The reason why it’s so important to understand escape fails better is because they perpetuate the cycle of fear and inaction.  Each time you give in to an escape fail, you reinforce the idea that you can’t handle challenging tasks. This increases your fear of failure, making it even harder to take on tough projects in the future.

The thing is, when you consistently avoid difficult tasks, your confidence takes a hit. You start to doubt your abilities and question whether you can achieve your goals, which can be incredibly demotivating.

The truth is that escape fails can become a habit. The more you give in to them, the easier it becomes to do so again and again. This habit of inaction can keep you stuck.

And let’s face it, time spent on escape fails is time wasted. By giving in to distractions or excuses, you’re not using your time effectively.

And if you’re already feeling stressed and overwhelmed, escape fails will just exacerbate those feelings.  When you avoid tasks that need to be done, they don’t go away. 

They pile up, creating a backlog that can feel overwhelming. This increases your stress levels and makes it even harder to focus and be productive.

The good news is that you can break the cycle of escape fails.  You just need to be aware of when they’re happening and take proactive steps to address them. 

By understanding and addressing escape fails, you can start to take control of your time and move closer to your goals. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about making progress and learning from each step along the way.

While escape fails can trap us in a cycle of inaction, there’s another side to the story. Let’s shift our focus to worthy fails and how they can lead to growth and learning.

Understanding Worthy Fails Better

Worthy fails are the kinds of failures that we should actually strive for because they involve taking action and learning from the results, even if things don’t go exactly as planned. Worthy fails are all about growth, improvement, and moving forward despite setbacks.

A worthy fail happens when you give something your best shot, and while you might not get the exact result you wanted, you gain valuable insights and experience from the effort. Unlike escape fails, which are about avoidance, worthy fails are about engagement and perseverance.

To get a clearer picture, I’m going to share some real-life examples of worthy fails:

The first example is practicing a new skill.  Imagine you decide to learn a new accounting software that promises to streamline your workflow. You spend a few hours each week practicing and trying to get the hang of it. 

Initially, you struggle and make a lot of mistakes. Instead of getting discouraged and giving up, you keep practicing and gradually start to understand how it works. 

Each mistake teaches you something new, and over time, you become proficient. The early struggles were worthy fails because they were steps toward mastery.

The next example is implementing a new time management strategy.  Let’s say you decide to try a new time management technique you read about, like time blocking. 

You meticulously plan your week, assigning specific tasks to specific time slots. But when you try to follow your schedule, things don’t go as planned. You get distracted, meetings run over, and some tasks take longer than expected. 

Instead of abandoning the strategy, you take time to reflect on what didn’t work. Maybe you realize you need to allow more buffer time between tasks or be stricter about minimizing distractions. 

Each week, you tweak and adjust your approach, learning from each setback. These are worthy fails because they help you refine your strategy and improve over time.

The last example is setting ambitious goals.  Let’s say you set a goal to bring in five new clients by the end of the quarter. You put in the effort, reaching out to prospects, setting up meetings, and pitching your services. By the end of the quarter, you’ve only secured three new clients. 

While you didn’t hit your original target, you gained valuable experience in client acquisition, learned what works and what doesn’t, and built relationships that could lead to future business. This shortfall is a worthy fail because it was a step toward growth and provided you with important insights.

The truth is that successfully navigating worthy fails boosts your confidence. As you see yourself overcoming obstacles and learning from mistakes, you start to believe in your ability to handle challenges and achieve your goals. This increased confidence can motivate you to aim even higher.

So, the next time you face a setback, remember that it’s not the end of the road—it’s just a worthy fail, and you’re one step closer to achieving your goals.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Knowing The Difference Between An Escape Fail And A Worthy Fail

One of my coaching clients is a CPA who was struggling with time management and a fear of failure. When he first came to me, he was overwhelmed and stuck in a cycle of escape fails. 

He constantly put off important tasks, justifying his procrastination by convincing himself that urgent emails and calls took priority. This left him feeling frustrated and exhausted, as he never made real progress on his goals.

In our sessions, we worked on shifting his mindset. We redefined failure and discussed the concepts of escape fails and worthy fails. 

He learned to see failure not as a negative endpoint but as a stepping stone to improvement. We set small, actionable goals and created a structured schedule with time for him to assess.

One of his first worthy fails came when he tried to overhaul his entire filing system. Halfway through, he realized it was too big a project to complete in one go. 

Instead of giving up, he broke it down into smaller tasks. This taught him the importance of manageable chunks and better planning.

Over time, he became more comfortable setting ambitious goals and taking on challenging projects. He also started noticing an improvement in his productivity and confidence. When setbacks occurred, he analyzed what went wrong, adjusted his approach, and moved forward.

Today, he manages his time effectively, sets and achieves ambitious goals, and views failure as an opportunity for growth. He’s completely changed his relationship with failure and has embraced how much worthy fails have empowered him.  

So hopefully you can see that although we all have a fear of failure, worthy fails make it possible to not limit ourselves and our growth opportunities.  

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway from this episode is that not all failures are equal. By distinguishing between escape fails and worthy fails, you can change your relationship with failure. 

Escape fails hold you back by encouraging avoidance and procrastination, while worthy fails move you forward by encouraging growth and learning. Embracing worthy fails allows you to see failure as a valuable part of your journey rather than a dead-end. 

By shifting your mindset and training your brain to view challenges as opportunities, you can break free from the fear of failure and unlock your full potential in both your professional and personal life.

This week, think about a recent failure you experienced. Was it an escape fail or a worthy fail? What steps can you take to turn future escape fails into worthy fails, and how might this change impact your personal growth and career success?

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the difference between an escape fail and a worthy fail.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply, whether it’s at work or at home.

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.

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.

Today I want to talk about interviews because they’re a critical part of any accounting career, whether you’re just starting out or looking to move up the ladder. If you’re an entrepreneur in the accounting field, interviews are just as crucial for hiring the right people to grow your business.

But let’s be honest—most accountants would much rather talk about numbers than themselves. Discussing your skills, experiences, and why you’re the right fit for a job can feel awkward and challenging.

It’s not always easy to know what to say, how to act, or how to handle those nerve-wracking moments during an interview. When you walk into an interview, whether you’re asking the questions or answering them, there’s always that feeling of being evaluated.

As an interviewee, you’re being sized up by a potential employer to see if you fit their needs. But remember—it’s a two-way street.  You should be evaluating them just as much to ensure the job and company are the right fit for you. 

In today’s tech-driven world, you might think that virtual interviews would make things easier.

After all, you can do them from the comfort of your home, and there’s less hassle compared to traveling to an office. However, virtual interviews come with their own set of challenges.

There’s a layer of awkwardness and disconnection that’s hard to ignore. Without the ability to shake hands and sit across from someone in person, it’s tougher to gauge reactions and build a genuine connection.

This can make the whole process feel more overwhelming for everyone involved. The convenience of virtual interviews has expanded the pool of applicants and job opportunities, which is great.

But it also means more competition and, often, more stress. You might feel the pressure of standing out among a larger group of applicants.

The lack of face-to-face interaction can make it harder to make a memorable impression. 

But, what’s really key in navigating interviews successfully, whether virtual or in-person, is self-confidence and self-awareness.

It’s not just about having a polished resume or knowing the right answers to common interview questions. It’s about understanding yourself—your strengths, your weaknesses, and how to present yourself in the best light.

This self-awareness helps you manage your thoughts and emotions during the interview, allowing you to stay calm and focused. When you’re confident and self-aware, you can better understand the interviewer’s perspective as well.

You’ll be able to connect with them more effectively, showing that you’re not just another candidate, but the right candidate. Remember, interviews are as much about showcasing your professional skills as they are about demonstrating your ability to connect with others and handle stressful situations with grace.

In the end, nailing a job interview is about more than just your resume, technical knowledge or experience. It’s about how well you know yourself and how effectively you can communicate that knowledge.

Whether you’re aiming for a new job, a promotion, or trying to hire the best people for your team, mastering the art of interviews can make all the difference in your accounting career.

Your Brain’s Role In The Interview Process

Let’s dive into what really goes on during an interview. First things first—self-awareness and managing your thoughts are game-changers.

You might not realize it, but what you’re thinking before, during, and even after an interview can significantly impact your performance. Imagine you’re about to walk into an interview, and you’re thinking, “I’m not good enough” or “Everyone else has more experience than me.”

Those thoughts can lead to feelings of doubt and insecurity, which can show up in how you present yourself. It’s normal to have a whirlwind of thoughts and fears before an interview.

Maybe you’re worried about coming off as too needy or too arrogant. Maybe you’re scared of freezing up and not knowing how to answer a question.

Perhaps you’re anxious about whether you’re truly qualified for the job. These are all common pre-interview thoughts that many people experience.

These thoughts don’t just stay in your head—they influence how you behave during the interview. If you’re feeling doubtful or insecure, you might come across as timid or unsure of yourself.

You might struggle to articulate your answers or fail to highlight your strengths effectively. On the flip side, if you go into an interview with a positive mindset, believing in your abilities and feeling confident, you’re more likely to communicate clearly and make a strong impression.

This is why preparation is so important, and not just the kind that involves rehearsing answers or researching the company. Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as crucial.

It’s about understanding your thoughts and managing them in a way that boosts your confidence and helps you stay calm and focused. It’s also important to understand that your brain plays a huge role in this process.

When you’re anxious or stressed, your brain releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can affect your ability to think clearly and respond effectively. When you’re confident and relaxed, your brain is in a better state to access your knowledge and skills.

Managing your thoughts and emotions helps keep your brain in the optimal state for performing well during the interview. You can have the most polished resume and know the answers to all the typical interview questions, but if you’re filled with self-doubt and negative thoughts, it’s going to be hard to shine.

Preparation beyond the resume means getting to know yourself better and learning how to manage your thoughts and emotions effectively. This deeper level of preparation can help you walk into an interview with the confidence and self-assurance needed to truly stand out.

As you prepare for your next interview, take some time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Identify any negative or unhelpful thoughts and work on reframing them in a more positive light.

Remember, the way you think and feel about yourself can significantly impact how you perform in an interview. By managing your thoughts and being self-aware, you can improve your chances of success and make a lasting impression on your potential employer.

Understanding how your brain works can give you an edge. Knowing that your brain responds to your thoughts and feelings means you can train it to be your ally.

The interview process is not just about showcasing your skills and experience. It’s about presenting the best version of yourself, which starts with how you manage your mind. 

A Better Type of Interview Prep

Preparing for an interview isn’t just about brushing up your resume and practicing answers to common questions. A crucial part of preparation involves getting your mind in the right place. 

Let’s talk about identifying and acknowledging those pre-interview thoughts that can either set you up for success or trip you up before you even walk in the door (or log in, for virtual interviews).

First, you need to identify those pre-interview thoughts. What’s running through your mind as you gear up for the big day? Maybe you’re thinking, “I’m afraid I’m going to blow it,” “Everyone else has more experience than me,” or “I don’t like how I sound in interviews.” 

These thoughts are completely normal. Almost everyone experiences some level of anxiety before an interview. But here’s the catch—what you think directly affects how you feel and, ultimately, how you behave during the interview.

Let’s take an example thought: “I’m worried that they won’t think I’m qualified enough.” This thought can lead to feelings of doubt and insecurity. When you’re feeling doubtful, you might come across as timid or unsure of yourself. 

You might fidget, struggle to make eye contact, or have trouble articulating your thoughts. These behaviors can reinforce the interviewer’s perception that you’re not confident or prepared, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy.

This example shows the power of a single thought on your interview behavior. It’s amazing how one negative thought can spiral into a series of actions that don’t reflect your true capabilities. 

On the flip side, imagine if your thought was, “I have valuable experience and skills to offer.” This thought can lead to feelings of confidence and assurance. You’d likely walk into the interview with your head held high, make strong eye contact, and articulate your answers clearly, showcasing your best self.

So, how do you manage and reframe those pre-interview thoughts to set yourself up for success? Here are some strategies:

Acknowledge Your Thoughts: The first step is to simply notice what you’re thinking. Don’t try to push away negative thoughts or pretend they don’t exist. Acknowledge them. Write them down if it helps to see them on paper.

Question Your Thoughts: Once you’ve identified your thoughts, question their validity. Are they based on facts or assumptions? For instance, if you’re thinking, “Everyone else has more experience than me,” ask yourself, “Do I know this for sure?” Often, you’ll find that these thoughts are based on fears rather than facts.

Reframe Negative Thoughts: Replace negative thoughts with more positive, realistic ones. If you’re thinking, “I’m afraid I’ll blow it,” reframe it to, “I’ve prepared for this, and I’m ready to do my best.” Focus on your strengths and past successes to boost your confidence.

Visualization Techniques: Athletes do this all the time; visualizing themselves succeeding in whatever they’re asked to do.  Visualize yourself succeeding in the interview. Imagine walking in confidently, answering questions clearly, and connecting well with the interviewer. Visualization can help reduce anxiety and build a positive mental image of the interview.

Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or even a quick walk can help calm your mind and reduce stress. When your mind is calm, it’s easier to manage your thoughts and stay focused.

By taking the time to identify, acknowledge, and reframe your pre-interview thoughts, you can create a more positive and confident mindset. Remember, how you think influences how you feel, and how you feel influences how you act. 

Preparing mentally and emotionally is just as important as preparing your resume and practicing your answers. With the right mindset, you can walk into any interview ready to showcase your best self.

Managing Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome

Let’s talk about something many of us face but don’t often discuss—self-doubt and imposter syndrome. Have you ever felt like you don’t belong, like you’re just waiting for someone to figure out you’re not as capable as they think? That’s imposter syndrome, and it’s more common than you might think, especially for accountants.

Imposter syndrome is the belief that you’re out of your league, that you’re not good enough, and that you’re only in your current position because you got lucky. It’s that nagging feeling that sooner or later, everyone will realize you’re a fraud. Sounds harsh, right? 

But the truth is, an estimated 70% of people have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their lives. For accountants, who are often expected to have it all together, we can get hit with this feeling more often than we’d like.

In fact, studies have shown that imposter syndrome is higher among professionals in high-achieving fields, including accounting. The constant need for accuracy, the pressure to perform, and the competitive nature of the industry can contribute to these feelings of inadequacy. 

Unfortunately, even when you’ve got the credentials, the experience, and the skills, self-doubt can still creep in, making you question your worth and capabilities.

But when it comes to nailing that job interview, overcoming imposter syndrome, especially before, during, and after interviews, is crucial for showcasing your true abilities and potential. 

If you struggle with self-doubt or imposter syndrome, here’s how you can tackle it:

Recognize It: The first step to overcoming imposter syndrome is recognizing it. Acknowledge that those feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy are part of imposter syndrome. Once you name it, you can start to deal with it.

Understand Your Achievements: Take a step back and look at your accomplishments. Write them down if it helps. You’ve earned your place through hard work, dedication, and skill—not luck. Remind yourself of your successes and the effort you’ve put in to get where you are.

Challenge Negative Thoughts: Just like with pre-interview thoughts, challenge the negative thoughts that feed into imposter syndrome. Ask yourself if there’s concrete evidence for these thoughts or if they’re just fears and assumptions.

Talk About It: You’re not alone in feeling this way. Talking about your experiences with friends, mentors, or colleagues can help. Often, you’ll find that others have felt the same way and can offer support and perspective.

Prepare Mentally: Before an interview, take time to mentally prepare. Practice mindfulness, use positive affirmations, and visualize your success. Remind yourself of your qualifications and why you deserve to be there.

During the Interview: During the interview, stay focused on your strengths and what you bring to the table. If self-doubt starts to creep in, take a deep breath and refocus on your positive attributes. Remember, the interviewer is interested in you for a reason.

After the Interview: After the interview, don’t let imposter syndrome take over. Reflect on what went well and what you can improve, but don’t dwell on perceived mistakes. Use constructive feedback to grow, not to undermine your confidence.

Bottom line: Managing self-doubt and imposter syndrome is an ongoing process, but with awareness and the right strategies, you can keep it in check. By recognizing your value, challenging negative thoughts, and preparing mentally, you can present your best self during this and future interviews. 

My Secret Weapon – Managing The Interviewer’s Mind

I’ve talked a lot about your brain’s role in the interview process and managing your mind, but my secret weapon for nailing that job interview is understanding how to manage the interviewer’s mind.

When it comes to interviews, we often get so caught up in our own thoughts and nerves that we start making assumptions about what the interviewer is thinking. Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely positive. 

For example, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking, “They probably think I’m not experienced enough,” or “They don’t seem interested in what I’m saying.” These negative assumptions can quickly spiral, creating unnecessary stress and self-doubt that can impact your performance.

However, just as you can manage your own thoughts, you can also manage your assumptions about the interviewer’s thoughts. Here are some strategies to help you reframe those assumptions positively:

Choose Positive Assumptions: Instead of assuming the worst, make a conscious decision to assume the best. For example, instead of thinking, “They probably think I’m not experienced enough,” reframe it to, “The interviewer is interested in learning more about me.” 

If you catch yourself thinking, “They don’t seem interested,” change it to, “They see potential in me, which is why I’m here.” Positive assumptions can help reduce anxiety and boost your confidence, allowing you to perform at your best.

Focus on Connection: Think of the interview as a two-way conversation where both parties are trying to find a good fit. The interviewer isn’t just looking to trip you up; they want to find the right person for the job. 

Assume the interviewer wants you to succeed and is looking for reasons to hire you, not to reject you. This mindset helps you relax and engage more naturally in the conversation, making it easier to connect and showcase your abilities.

So what would be the impact of these positive assumptions on your interview performance?  Why is this so important?

Because when you assume the interviewer is on your side, you’ll naturally feel more relaxed and confident. This positive mindset allows you to connect better with the interviewer, showcase your skills effectively, and handle questions with ease.

For example, if you believe the interviewer is genuinely interested in what you have to say, you’re more likely to speak with enthusiasm and clarity. You’ll be more focused on sharing your experiences and strengths rather than worrying about being judged. This approach not only helps you perform better but also makes the interview more enjoyable and less stressful.

Remember, your thoughts shape your reality. By managing both your own mind and your assumptions about the interviewer’s mind, you create a more positive and productive interview experience. 

You will be amazed at how this shift in perspective can make a significant difference in how you present yourself and how you’re perceived by the interviewer.  The truth is that when you manage your mind effectively, you’re not just saying the right things—you’re thinking and feeling in a way that truly supports your success.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Nailing That Job Interview

It’s not easy to put yourself out there during the job search process, but just know that although it feels awkward, it can be a lot easier when you learn and implement what I’ve shared.

For example, one of my coaching clients was an accountant with impressive qualifications but a lack of confidence. She had decided to leave the firm she had been with, had gone on a few interviews, but knew they didn’t go as well as she’d like.

Before her next major job interview, she was consumed with self-doubt, thinking, “I’m not good enough,” and “They’ll see through me.” 

She knew her resume was stellar so we instead focused on managing her mind. We got clear on what her Toddler, negatively-biased brain was thinking and then worked on reframing those negative thoughts.

By replacing “I’m not good enough” with “I have valuable skills and experience” she was much more calm and confident.  We worked together on getting her brain to see that any employer would be lucky to have her.

At her next interview, the difference was clear. She walked in with confidence, spoke clearly, and effectively highlighted her strengths. 

Her positive mindset and calm demeanor impressed the interviewers, and she landed the job. She shared with me that managing her thoughts and emotions made all the difference in presenting her best self.

So hopefully you can see that you can have the most impressive resume possible, but learning how to manage your mind is your secret weapon.  It affects how you feel, what you do or don’t do, and how other people experience you.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway from today is that self-awareness and mental preparation are crucial for nailing job interviews. Managing your thoughts and emotions, understanding your strengths and weaknesses, and maintaining a positive mindset can significantly impact your performance and help you present your best self during an interview.

Your resume is important, but the mindset you bring before, during and after an interview is even more crucial.

For this week, ask yourself, “What negative or unhelpful thoughts do I have about my upcoming interview, and how can I reframe them into positive, confidence-boosting thoughts?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed nailing that job interview.  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.

Do you ever feel like your life is just a never-ending series of decisions? From handling client needs to figuring out what’s for dinner, it can get pretty overwhelming, right? 

As accountants, we’re constantly bombarded with choices to make, both big and small. It’s part of the job, but sometimes it feels like it never stops.

I don’t know about you, but even though I’m capable and organized, there are days when I just wish someone could take a few decisions off my plate. Just think about it – wouldn’t it be amazing if you didn’t have to decide on every little thing? 

But if I’m being honest, I’d probably still want to double-check their decisions anyway!

Recently, I was listening to my mentor, a highly successful businessperson, talk about decision-making. She humorously described herself as a “control enthusiast,” and I couldn’t help but laugh. 

For most of my life, I’ve felt the need to control the people and things around me to feel secure and content.  But trying to control everything is exhausting, right? 

It’s like trying to juggle too many balls in the air at once. This constant need to manage every detail drained me and led to decision fatigue, where the number of choices I had to make left me feeling overwhelmed and burnt out.

If you haven’t experienced decision fatigue, trust me, it’s one of the most draining things ever. And often, we don’t even realize it’s happening until we’re already exhausted. 

We’re so busy trying to keep everything under control that we forget to step back and see the bigger picture.

Have you ever felt that way? Like no matter how many decisions you make, there’s always another one waiting around the corner? As accountants, it’s easy to fall into this trap. 

We’re trained to be meticulous, detail-oriented, and always on top of things. But sometimes, the sheer volume of decisions can just be too much.

In fact, did you know that the average adult makes 33,000 to 35,000 total decisions each day!  It’s no wonder decision fatigue can be so common.

The interesting thing is that as I was doing the research for this topic a while back, I was reflecting on all the decisions I had to make and realized that not all decisions carry the same weight. Some decisions are trivial, while others can have a significant impact on our lives. 

That’s when it hit me – if we could identify and focus on the most important decisions, we could potentially alleviate some of that overwhelming pressure.

This realization was a game-changer for me. I started to think about the areas of my life where making wise decisions could create a domino effect, making other choices easier and less stressful. It was about being strategic and intentional with my decision-making process.

I remember my mentor’s words vividly: “If you’re not taking the time to make intentional, conscious decisions about your life, don’t be surprised when your life isn’t what you want it to be.” 

It was a wake-up call. I realized that by taking control of a few key decisions, I could steer my life in a more positive direction.

That’s why in today’s podcast I want to share three decisions that every accountant needs to make wisely.  By focusing on the right decisions, you can create a ripple effect that leads to greater fulfillment and success. 

Decision #1: Who You Spend Your Time With

Have you ever noticed how the people around you can really affect your mood and even how productive you are? It’s like their energy rubs off on you, whether it’s good or bad. 

The truth is that who we spend our time with plays a huge role in shaping our thoughts, attitudes, and even our success.

See if you can relate to this: A few years ago, I was constantly feeling drained and uninspired at work. I couldn’t figure out why until I started paying attention to my surroundings. 

I realized that I was spending a lot of time with colleagues who were always complaining or stressed out. Their negativity was bringing me down without me even realizing it.

So, I made a conscious decision to change that. I started seeking out colleagues and friends who were positive, motivated, and supportive. It wasn’t easy at first, but the difference it made was incredible. 

Once my mindset shifted, I began to feel more energized and enthusiastic about my work. It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders.

Here’s the thing: who you spend your time with really matters. The people around you can either lift you up or bring you down, and it’s important to choose wisely. 

In fact, research from the University of California, San Diego, shows that happiness spreads through social networks up to three degrees of separation, meaning your friends, their friends, and their friends’ friends can all impact your well-being.

Think about it this way – if you surround yourself with people who are always focused on the negative, it’s easy to start seeing the world through that same lens. On the other hand, if you’re around people who are positive and forward-thinking, it encourages you to adopt a similar mindset. 

Why is this important for accountants?  Because as an accountant typically surrounded by other stressed accountants, this can significantly impact your productivity and overall happiness.

Here are some practical tips to help you evaluate and improve your personal and professional relationships:

Evaluate Your Relationships: Take a moment to think about the people you spend the most time with. Are they positive and supportive, or do they drain your energy? Sometimes, we don’t realize the impact someone has on us until we step back and assess it. Make a list of the people you interact with most frequently and consider how each one makes you feel. Do they inspire you, or do they leave you feeling exhausted?

Prioritize Positivity: Make an effort to spend more time with people who uplift and inspire you. This could be friends, family, or colleagues who have a positive outlook on life and encourage you to be your best self. It might mean making some tough choices about who you spend less time with, but it’s worth it. Surround yourself with those who bring out the best in you and make you feel good about yourself.   

Leverage Technology: In today’s digital age, you can surround yourself with positive influences even if they’re not physically nearby. Listen to uplifting podcasts like this one, read inspiring books, and join online communities that align with your interests and goals. These virtual connections can be just as powerful, if not more, as in-person ones. 

Be Intentional with Your Time: Make a plan to incorporate more positive influences into your daily routine. Schedule regular catch-ups with uplifting friends or colleagues, join a professional group that inspires you, or set aside dedicated time each week to listen to a helpful podcast or read a motivational book. By being intentional about who and what you let into your life, you can create a more positive environment for yourself.

Reflect and Adjust: Periodically reflect on how your interactions are affecting you. If you find that certain relationships are consistently bringing you down, it might be time to reassess their place in your life. It’s okay to step back from relationships that aren’t serving you well and seek out new, more positive connections.

By making these small but significant changes, you’ll start to notice a big difference in your mindset and productivity. Surrounding yourself with the right people can create a ripple effect that improves many areas of your life. 

So, take control of this decision and choose to spend your time with those who make you feel good and help you grow. Remember, you have the power to create a supportive and inspiring network that will lift you up and help you achieve your goals.

Decision #2: How You Make a Living

Have you ever stopped to ask yourself if you’re truly happy with your job? As accountants, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to check in with ourselves about our career satisfaction. 

But taking the time to assess how we make a living and whether it aligns with our personal goals is crucial for long-term happiness and success.

To be honest, a few years ago, I found myself feeling unfulfilled in my accounting job. I had been working in the same role for years and felt stuck in a routine that didn’t excite me anymore. I realized I needed to re-evaluate my career path and make some intentional choices about my future.

So, I started by conducting a self-assessment. I asked myself tough questions: Was I passionate about my work? Did it align with my long-term goals? What did I really want to achieve in my career? This was eye-opening and helped me understand what changes I needed to make.

Next, I explored different career options within accounting. I looked into public accounting versus private accounting, considered whether I wanted to be a specialist or a generalist, and thought about the possibility of becoming an entrepreneur. This exploration was exciting and opened my eyes to new opportunities I hadn’t considered before.

Ultimately, I decided to pursue further professional development and personal growth. 

I studied to become a Professional Certified Coach for Accountants, wrote my book “The Smarter Accountant” and built a successful coaching business in addition to being a CPA in public accounting.  

The truth was, I knew I didn’t want to give up being a CPA, but I also knew I had so much to teach the accounting profession.  As I became a smarter accountant, I wanted other accountants to learn the same. 

So if you’re feeling unsure about the direction you’re going, here are some practical tips to help you assess and improve your career satisfaction:

Conduct a Self-Assessment: Take some time to reflect on your current job. Ask yourself if you’re truly satisfied with your work and if it aligns with your personal goals. Write down your thoughts and identify areas where you feel fulfilled and areas where you feel lacking. This self-assessment can provide clarity and guide your next steps.

Explore Different Career Options: I did an entire episode last week titled “Before You Leave The Accounting Profession, Hear Me Out”, but for this episode I suggest you look into various paths within the accounting field. Consider whether you prefer public accounting or private accounting, and think about whether you want to specialize in a specific area or remain a generalist. Don’t be afraid to explore options that might seem unconventional. Sometimes, the right fit for you might be something you haven’t considered before.

Invest in Professional Development: Continuous learning is key to staying engaged and growing in your career. Take courses, attend workshops, and participate in industry events. Seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge and skills. Professional development not only enhances your expertise but also keeps your job exciting and challenging.

Seek Mentorship and Networking: Connect with others in your field who can offer guidance and support. A mentor or coach can provide valuable insights and help you navigate your career path. Networking with peers can also open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.

Set Personal and Professional Goals: Define what success looks like for you. Set both short-term and long-term goals for your career. Having clear objectives can motivate you and give you a sense of direction. Regularly revisit and adjust these goals as needed to ensure they remain aligned with your aspirations.

Just know this – it’s never too late to make changes and pursue what truly makes you happy. Take the time to evaluate how you make a living and ensure it aligns with your personal goals and passions.

By thoughtfully making the decision about how I make a living, I have found the perfect balance between being a CPA and helping accountants have easier accounting careers and more successful businesses..

Decision #3: How You Manage Your Health

How often do you prioritize your own health with all you have going on professionally and personally? It’s easy to let our health take a backseat when we’re busy with work, family, and everything else life throws at us. 

But the truth is, without good health, everything else falls apart. Managing stress and maintaining physical health are crucial for long-term success and happiness.

Honestly, I used to ignore my health, thinking that work and family came first. I believed that as long as I kept pushing through, everything would be fine. 

But over time, I started feeling constantly tired, stressed, and less productive. I realized that neglecting my health was affecting every aspect of my life.

So, I decided to make a change and began prioritizing my well-being.  My energy levels went up, my productivity increased, and I felt happier overall. It was a wake-up call that taking care of myself was not just important but essential.

Especially in light of my recent cancer diagnosis, I am beyond grateful that I had already put things in place to help with my physical, mental and emotional health.  I don’t think I would be dealing so well with everything I have going on if I hadn’t already prioritized my health.

Since I want the same for you, here are some practical tips to help you manage your health:

Balanced Approach: Incorporate regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep into your routine. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Start with small steps like going for a walk, eating more fruits and vegetables, and ensuring you get enough rest each night. These simple changes can make a big difference in how you feel.

Stress Management: This is the #1 biggest benefit from learning what I teach in The Smarter Accountant Program – how to manage your mind so that you can decrease and even eliminate stress.  Ever since I learned what I teach in my book, I have been able to have stress-free tax seasons and I promise you, you can too.

Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to get professional help if you’re struggling with your mental health. There’s no shame in it. There are too many accountants who have normalized their health issues so make sure you’re not one of them.  Sometimes, we need a little extra help to manage our mental health, and that’s okay.

By making these changes, you’ll notice improvements in your energy, mood, and productivity. Remember, taking care of your health is not selfish; it’s necessary. When you prioritize your well-being, you’re better equipped to handle all your responsibilities and enjoy life more fully.

So, take a moment to assess how you’re managing your health. Are there areas where you can make small improvements? Start today by incorporating some of these tips into your routine.

Your body and mind will thank you, and you’ll be on your way to a healthier, happier life and a more sustainable accounting career.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Wisely Making The 3 Decisions

I already shared some of my story throughout this episode, but now I’m going to share a little about a few coaching clients who wisely made each of the 3 decisions.

One client worked at a mid-sized firm. She often felt drained and unmotivated. After some reflection, she realized that her work environment was filled with colleagues who were negative and constantly complaining. This negative atmosphere was affecting her mood and productivity.

After working together she decided to make a change. She looked for more positive and supportive colleagues, both within her firm and through networking groups. She also started listening to inspiring podcasts during her commute. 

She felt more energized, her work improved, and she even started taking on leadership roles within her firm. She realized that by surrounding herself with positive influences, it helped her rediscover her passion for her career.

Another client had been in public accounting for over a decade. Although he was successful, he felt unfulfilled and questioned whether he was on the right career path. He was afraid of making a change because he had invested so much time and effort into his current role.

After working together he realized that his true passion lay in teaching and mentoring. He started to explore different options and eventually transitioned to a role where he could train and mentor new accountants. 

This change really lit him up and gave him a renewed sense of purpose. 

The last client I want to share was a hardworking accountant and a mother of two. Like most working moms, she always put her family and work first, neglecting her own health. Over time, she felt constantly exhausted and stressed, which affected her performance at work and her patience at home.

Once we started working together she realized she needed to make a change for her well-being. She first learned the invaluable skill of managing her mind so that she could significantly reduce her stress.  

She was amazed at how much better she felt, how productive she was at work and more present with her family. Prioritizing her mental health allowed her to find a better balance and improve her quality of life.

She realized that, just like all the accountants she worked with, she had normalized stress.  But, once she learned how to reduce and even eliminate stress, everything in her life, professionally and personally, became easier.

So hopefully by these examples you can see how empowering it can be to wisely make  decisions about who to spend your time with, how to make a living, and how to manage your health.  If you’re going to be making tens of thousands of decisions in a day, make sure these three are the ones you make wisely.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway is that making intentional and wise decisions about who you spend your time with, how you make a living, and how you manage your health can transform your professional and personal life. These decisions create a ripple effect that enhances your overall well-being, productivity, and happiness. 

Remember, by taking control of these key areas, you can steer your life in a more positive and fulfilling direction.

This week, ask yourself: “Which of the three decisions – who I spend my time with, how I make a living, or how I manage my health – needs the most attention in my life right now, and what is one small step I can take today to improve it?”

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the 3 decisions every accountant needs to make wisely.  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.