Category: Podcast

Before I get started, if you’re gearing up for tax season, make sure you download The NEW Smarter Accountant Tax Season Survival Checklist at https://thesmarteraccountant.com/survival-checklist/.  

With over 30 years of tax seasons under my belt, I know just how challenging this time of year can be. That’s why I created this checklist—to help you stay focused, productive, and in control every step of the way.

Okay, now let’s talk about procrastination.  Just between me and you, how many things have you procrastinated in the past week?

Maybe you’ve been telling yourself, “I’ll get to it tomorrow,” or “I work better under pressure.” And sure, you might pull it off, but at what cost? Suddenly, you’re working late, scrambling to get everything done, and feeling like you’re always a step behind.

Here’s the thing: procrastination isn’t about being lazy or disorganized. Far from it. Some of the most detail-oriented, productive accountants I know struggle with it all the time. 

In fact, it’s one of the most common things I teach in The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program.  The reason it’s so common for accountants is that procrastination is a sneaky little habit that shows up when you’re stressed, overwhelmed, or just don’t feel like dealing with a tough task.

The irony is that procrastination actually creates the stress we’re trying to avoid. It’s like kicking the can down the road, only to find that the can got bigger and heavier by the time you pick it up again.

But here’s what I want you to know: procrastination isn’t some unchangeable flaw. It’s a behavior—a reaction to what’s going on in your mind. And once you understand what’s driving it, you can take control and do something about it.

So, if procrastination has been hanging around in your life a little too often, stick with me. We’re going to dig into why it happens, why it’s so common for accountants, and—more importantly—how you can start to change the pattern.

But to really understand procrastination and why it keeps showing up, we first need to take a closer look at what’s going on in your brain. Let’s dive into that next.

The Brain Science Behind Procrastination

It turns out your brain has some built-in tendencies that make procrastination almost inevitable if you’re not paying attention.

First, let’s talk about something called the Motivational Triad. I’ve mentioned it before on the podcast and in my book “The Smarter Accountant,” but it’s important to understand that your  brain is hardwired to seek pleasure, avoid pain, and conserve energy. Sounds simple, right? 

But here’s the problem: when you’re faced with a task that feels boring, overwhelming, or stressful (like a lot of the work we do as accountants) your brain automatically looks for something easier or more enjoyable to do instead. It’s not trying to sabotage you; it’s just trying to keep things easy and comfortable.

Besides the Motivational Triad creating procrastination, the second issue is perfectionism. If you’re like many accountants, the thought of making a mistake can feel unbearable. Your brain interprets that potential failure as “pain,” so it stalls to avoid the discomfort. This is where procrastination kicks in—it’s a way of delaying that uncomfortable feeling, even if it’s temporary.

Lastly, there’s this sneaky little thing called the mere urgency effect. I’ve also talked about this on the podcast, but it’s the fact that your brain is wired to think that everything is urgent, even when it’s not.   

That’s why you might find yourself spending 20 minutes replying to emails or reorganizing your files instead of tackling the bigger project with a tighter deadline. It’s not that those small tasks really need your attention—they just feel easier to cross off the list, so your brain jumps on them.

The truth is that your brain isn’t trying to work against you. It’s just following its natural instincts.

In other words, there’s nothing wrong with you if you procrastinate, you just want to learn a better way to override the natural tendencies of your brain to not want to do a lot of the work we have to do as accountants.  Once you learn that, you’ll be amazed at how much more productive you can be. 

Now that you know how your brain plays a role in procrastination, let’s talk about the difference between procrastination and avoidance—and why knowing the distinction can be a game-changer.

Understanding Procrastination vs. Avoidance

Let’s clear something up—procrastination and avoidance aren’t the same thing. They might look similar at first, but understanding the difference is key to figuring out how to tackle them.

Procrastination happens when you delay doing something, even though you know it needs to get done. Think of it as that task you keep pushing off until the very last minute, but you still manage to complete it—usually in a frenzy, right before the deadline. 

For example, you might wait until the day before to start reconciling client accounts, telling yourself, “I’ll get to it when I’m really focused.” Eventually, it gets done, but not without some stress and scrambling.

Avoidance, on the other hand, is a different beast. This is when you don’t do the task at all. There’s no “eleventh-hour miracle” here—it just stays undone. Avoidance often sneaks in when there’s no immediate deadline to hold you accountable. 

Think about that performance review you’ve been meaning to schedule with a team member or that client you’ve been avoiding calling because you know it’s going to be an uncomfortable conversation. These tasks just sit there, lingering in the back of your mind, quietly adding to your stress.

The tricky thing about avoidance is that it feels harmless in the moment. There’s no pressure, so it’s easy to tell yourself, “I’ll deal with it later.” But the reality is, avoidance can become a silent productivity killer. 

The longer you ignore those tasks, the more they pile up—and the more anxiety they create. Without that looming deadline to push you into action, they can hang around indefinitely, draining your energy and focus.

For accountants, avoidance can be particularly dangerous. Maybe it’s a project you keep putting off because it feels overwhelming, or a client issue you’d rather not deal with because it’s complicated. 

Unlike procrastination, where you eventually feel the crunch to get things done, avoidance allows the task to stay invisible—until it suddenly isn’t, and you’re faced with bigger consequences.

Without a deadline to push you to get certain things done, you’re most likely avoiding, convincing yourself that you’ll get to it at some point.

Here’s the good news: just being able to spot the difference between procrastination and avoidance is a game-changer. It gives you the power to ask yourself, “Am I putting this off for now, or am I actively avoiding it altogether?” 

Once you know what’s really happening, you can start to address it head-on. And trust me, facing those tasks, even in small steps, feels way better than letting them loom in the background.

Once you can spot whether you’re procrastinating or avoiding, the next step is to understand the feelings that drive those behaviors. Let’s talk about what I call ‘permission-giving feelings.

The Concept Of “Permission-Giving Feelings”

Permission-giving feelings are the emotions that show up and quietly convince you it’s okay to put something off. For example, feelings like stress, overwhelm, confusion, anxiety, frustration, self-doubt, boredom, etc.

If you’ve been procrastinating, I promise you that one or more of these feelings was behind it.

The tricky part is that they feel completely reasonable in the moment, which is why we often don’t even realize they’re derailing us.

Here’s how it works. Let’s say you’ve had a long day, and you’re staring at a complex financial report that needs to get done. You feel overwhelmed—understandably so—and your brain pipes up with, “You’ll tackle this tomorrow when you’re more rested.” Sounds logical, right? 

But what happens? Tomorrow comes, and you’re still staring at the same report. That feeling of overwhelm gave you permission to delay, even though it didn’t magically make the task go away.

Another big one is anxiety. Imagine you’re dealing with a tricky tax situation for a client, and you’re worried about making a mistake. That little voice in your head might say, “I’ll handle this later when I’m feeling more confident.” 

But the longer you wait, the more stressful the task becomes, and the harder it feels to start. The feeling of anxiety that gave you permission to procrastinate ends up creating an even bigger obstacle.

And let’s not forget boredom. Not every task in accounting is thrilling (shocking, I know). When something feels tedious, like entering data into a spreadsheet for the hundredth time, it’s easy to think, “I’ll take a quick break and come back to this later.” 

Before you know it, that “quick break” has turned into scrolling through social media for 30 minutes, and the task is still sitting there, waiting for you.

As accountants, we often face these permission-giving feelings because so much of the work we do involves precision and problem-solving. Tackling big, uncomfortable tasks—like addressing a client’s messy records or starting a complicated audit—can feel overwhelming. It’s no wonder our brain jumps in with excuses to delay.

The thing is, these feelings aren’t bad or wrong. They’re just signals from your brain trying to keep you comfortable. 

But when you recognize them for what they are—temporary emotions, not truths—you can make a different choice. Instead of letting those feelings give you permission to procrastinate, you can acknowledge them and take a small step forward anyway.

So the next time you catch yourself thinking, “I’ll do this later,” take a moment to pause and ask yourself: What feeling is giving me permission to put this off? Awareness is the first step to breaking the pattern—and taking control of your day.

Recognizing these permission-giving feelings is the first step. But what’s next? That’s where my Smarter Accountant Procrastination Framework comes in to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

The Smarter Accountant Procrastination Framework

Let me introduce you to something I call The Smarter Accountant Procrastination Framework. It’s a simple, three-step process—Awareness, Adjustment, and Action—that can help you tackle procrastination without the stress and overwhelm. 

Think of it as your go-to strategy for getting unstuck and moving forward, one step at a time.

Step 1: Awareness

The first step is Awareness—recognizing what’s really driving your procrastination. This means getting curious about the thoughts and feelings that are holding you back. 

Are you avoiding that client email because you’re anxious about their reaction? Are you putting off starting a big audit because it feels overwhelming? 

Awareness is about pausing and asking yourself, “What’s stopping me right now?” Once you identify the feeling—whether it’s fear, boredom, or perfectionism—you can start to take control.

Step 2: Adjustment

Next comes Adjustment—shifting your thoughts to make the task feel more manageable. For example, instead of thinking, “This project is way too big, and I don’t know where to start,” you could tell yourself, “I can take one small step and go from there.” 

It’s not about tackling the whole mountain at once; it’s about breaking it down into pieces that feel doable. This mindset shift is powerful because it reduces overwhelm and makes it easier to take action.

Step 3: Action

Finally, we get to Action—the part where you actually start moving forward. But here’s the key: you don’t need to do everything at once. Start with the smallest, simplest task. 

Maybe it’s opening the file, reviewing the first set of numbers, or drafting one email. Taking that first step creates momentum, and before you know it, you’re making progress. Momentum is your secret weapon when dealing with procrastination because it builds confidence and keeps you going.

The beauty of this framework is that it’s simple and repeatable. Anytime you catch yourself procrastinating, just walk through these three steps. 

Start with Awareness to identify what’s holding you back, move to Adjustment to reframe your thinking, and then take Action—no matter how small.

Thankfully, procrastination doesn’t have to control your day. With The Smarter Accountant Procrastination Framework, you can take charge, reduce your stress, and get things done—one step at a time.

Now that you know the framework, let me share a real-life example of how one of my clients applied these steps to overcome procrastination—and how it transformed her work and life.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Overcoming Procrastination

This client is a senior accountant who felt like she was constantly drowning. Deadlines were always looming, her task list never seemed to shrink, and no matter how hard she worked, she couldn’t shake that “I’m always behind” feeling. She told me she was exhausted, frustrated, and honestly questioning how she could keep going like this.

The thing is, her perfectionism was running the show. She was so afraid of making mistakes that she’d put off starting tasks altogether. And of course, that just led to late nights, missed family time, and a lot of stress. 

We started by getting clear on what was really happening—what I call Awareness. She began to notice how her thoughts, like “If I don’t do this perfectly, I’ll disappoint everyone,” were making everything feel so much harder than it needed to be. Just recognizing that pattern gave her some relief—it’s like she finally understood why she was feeling stuck.

Then we worked on Adjustment. Instead of aiming for perfection, she started to shift her mindset. I had her try thoughts like, “I can just start small,” or, “B+ work is still great work.” 

She said these little changes made a huge difference. Suddenly, the pressure to do everything perfectly started to ease, and she felt lighter, like she could actually take a breath.

Finally, we focused on Action. We broke her big, overwhelming projects into tiny, manageable steps. Instead of staring at her to-do list in panic, she’d pick one simple thing to do—like opening a file or reviewing one section of data. Once she got started, she realized the tasks weren’t as scary as she’d built them up to be and she created momentum.

After just a few weeks, she started finishing her work ahead of deadlines, she felt calmer, and for the first time in years, she was able to reclaim her evenings and weekends. She even told me she felt like herself again—confident, capable, and in control.

I hope her story inspires you because it’s proof that procrastination isn’t a permanent obstacle—it’s a habit that can be broken. You can conquer procrastination when you learn what’s driving it.

Okay, let’s wrap things up with a key takeaway and an action step you can start using today.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway is that procrastination isn’t about laziness—it’s typically your brain reacting to fear, overwhelm, or the need for perfection. By recognizing the emotions driving your procrastination, shifting your thoughts to reduce the pressure, and taking small, manageable actions, you can break the cycle and start moving forward with less stress and more confidence.

The next time you find yourself procrastinating, ask yourself, “What feeling is giving me permission to put this off, and how can I take one small step to move forward despite it?”

This question is designed to help you uncover the root cause of your procrastination. Often, procrastination isn’t just about the task itself—it’s about the emotions you’re experiencing in the moment. 

Maybe it’s fear of getting it wrong, overwhelm at how big the task feels, or boredom because the work seems tedious. By identifying the specific feeling that’s giving you permission to delay, you bring awareness to what’s really holding you back.

The second part of the question—“How can I take one small step to move forward despite it?”—shifts your focus from the emotion to action. It reminds you that you don’t have to fix the entire problem or complete the whole task in one go. Instead, you can take a small, manageable step that feels doable even with the emotion present. 

For example, if anxiety is holding you back from starting a complex project, your small step could be reviewing the instructions or organizing your materials.

This question will empower you to acknowledge your feelings without letting them control your actions. It’s a way to take back control of your time and make progress, even when procrastination is tempting.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed overcoming procrastination.  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.

Don’t forget to download The Smarter Accountant Tax Season Survival Checklist.  Here’s what you can expect:   Weekly action steps to keep you organized and on track, tips to avoid burnout and maintain your energy and practical strategies to manage client demands without sacrificing your sanity.

You can download it at https://thesmarteraccountant.com/survival-checklist/

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.

Let’s talk about raising your rates. Does the thought of that make you a little uncomfortable? You’re not alone. Money—it’s such a tricky subject, isn’t it? And asking clients to pay more? That can bring up all kinds of feelings.

But here’s the thing: raising your rates isn’t just about numbers. It’s about acknowledging your worth, valuing the years of experience you’ve built, and respecting the energy you pour into your work every single day.

Think about it. How many times have you worked long hours, handled those last-minute client calls, or solved a major issue, only to realize your rates don’t reflect what you’re really bringing to the table? That’s frustrating, right?

And let’s be real—thoughts like, “What if clients push back?” or “Am I going to come off as greedy?” have probably crossed your mind. That’s totally normal. But here’s the truth: raising your rates is just part of running a sustainable business. Other professionals do it all the time as they grow and gain experience—why not you?

The key to doing this with confidence isn’t just about deciding on a new number; it’s about knowing your value and being able to communicate it in a way that feels honest and fair. When you’re clear on why this matters and you believe in what you do, raising your rates doesn’t feel as scary—it feels empowering.

If this sounds like something you’re ready to tackle, but you’re still feeling a bit hesitant, don’t worry. You’re in the right place. Let’s walk through this together, so this tax season, you can step into your worth with confidence.

Why Raising Your Rates is Essential This Tax Season

So, let me ask you—why not raise your rates? I know, it’s not an easy decision, and it’s definitely not something most of us jump into lightly. But here’s the thing: there are some really good reasons why now might be the perfect time to make that change.

First, let’s clear something up—this isn’t about being greedy. It’s about running a business that makes sense and reflects the value of your time and expertise. Think about it: inflation is hitting everyone, including you. The cost of everything—software, office supplies, you name it—is going up. Your rates need to keep up too, or you’re the one footing the bill.

And let’s not forget client expectations. People want more these days—faster responses, more personalized service, and extra support. If you’re delivering all that (and I’m sure you are), it’s only fair for your rates to reflect the level of service you’re providing.

Then there’s the self-worth piece. I know, it’s a heavy topic, but it matters. When you keep your rates low just to avoid rocking the boat, you’re sending a message—to yourself and to others—that your time and expertise aren’t as valuable as they really are. That’s not the message you want to put out there, is it?

Think about this: if a friend of yours—a contractor, consultant, or anyone else—told you they haven’t raised their rates in five years, despite all the experience and growth they’ve gained, what would you say? You’d probably tell them it’s time to update their prices. So, why shouldn’t the same apply to you?

Here’s another big reason: work-life balance. If you’re juggling too many clients at lower rates, burnout is just around the corner. Raising your rates allows you to work with fewer clients while still earning the same—or even more. That means you can provide better service to your clients and take better care of yourself. Win-win, right?

At the end of the day, raising your rates is about stepping up. It’s about recognizing your growth, the value you bring, and creating a business that works for you, not just everyone else.

But let’s be real—the hardest part isn’t crunching the numbers; it’s dealing with the mindset shifts that come with it. So, let’s dive into that next.

The Mindset Shift Needed to Raise Rates

Raising your rates isn’t just about updating an invoice—it’s about truly believing you’re worth what you’re charging and confidently standing behind that number. Let’s be honest: for most of us, that’s the hardest part.

If you’re like a lot of accountants, you care deeply about your clients. You want them to feel valued, and the thought of raising your rates might make you feel a little guilty. Maybe you’ve had thoughts like, “What if they think I’m being unreasonable?” or “Will they question my loyalty?” If that’s you, take a deep breath—you’re not alone. These feelings are so common in a profession built on relationships and helping others.

But here’s the truth: charging a fair rate doesn’t mean you’re letting your clients down. In fact, it’s the opposite. When you set rates that match the value of your work, you’re respecting not only yourself but also your clients. You’re showing them that you’re serious about delivering high-quality service and that you believe in what you bring to the table. And here’s the best part—clients can sense that confidence. It builds trust and strengthens the relationship.

Think about it this way: if someone walks into a Mercedes Benz dealership and says, “I can’t afford this,” the dealership doesn’t drop the price to match a Toyota Camry. Why? Because they know their value. They’re confident in the quality of their cars and the experience they provide. They trust that the right buyers will see that value.

The same idea applies to your services. Your work isn’t meant to fit every budget—and that’s okay. There are options out there for every price point, and you don’t need to be the “Camry” when you’re delivering Mercedes-level service.

Here’s the mindset shift that makes all the difference: instead of asking yourself, “Am I worth this much?” try asking, “Look at everything I’m offering—how could I not be?” Your experience, the problems you solve, the peace of mind you bring to your clients—it all has real value. When you focus on what you’re offering, it becomes so much easier to believe in your rates.

Now, I get it—another big fear is losing clients. Nobody wants that, especially when you’ve worked so hard to build those relationships. But here’s the thing: clients who truly value your work and trust your expertise are usually happy to pay a fair rate. And for those who aren’t? Sometimes letting go opens up space for clients who are a better fit for where your business is headed.

Raising your rates with confidence isn’t just about money. It’s about recognizing your worth, honoring your experience, and stepping into a place where you feel proud of the value you provide. Sure, it might take some time to get there. But as you shift your mindset and embrace your value, communicating your rates gets easier, and your confidence grows.

And here’s the best part—it’s not just you who benefits. Your clients do, too. When you feel good about what you’re charging, it shows in your work, your energy, and the service you provide.

Now that we’ve tackled the mindset shift, let’s take a look at how your brain plays into making changes like this—especially when it comes to money and self-worth.

The Brain Science Behind Rate Increases and Confidence

If the idea of raising your rates feels scary or uncomfortable, there’s a reason for it—it’s just how your brain works. But here’s the good news: understanding why this happens can help you take control and approach it with more confidence.

Your brain is wired to love familiarity. It craves routine and predictability because, from a survival perspective, that’s what keeps us safe. So, when you decide to raise your rates—a big change—it can feel like a threat to the status quo. Even though you know it’s a smart business decision, your brain might interpret it as risky, and suddenly, sending out that first invoice with your new rates feels downright nerve-wracking.

Then there’s the fear of rejection. This one runs deep. When you raise your rates, there’s always a chance that a client might push back or even walk away. And your brain? It doesn’t like rejection one bit. On a primal level, being rejected used to mean being cast out from a group, which could have serious consequences. Even though that’s not what’s happening here, your brain reacts the same way, making the idea of a client leaving feel much bigger than it really is.

But here’s the thing—once you recognize these automatic responses, you can start to manage them. It all begins with reframing your thoughts. Instead of thinking, “What if this doesn’t go well?” try, “This rate reflects the quality and value of the service I provide.” That simple shift sends a message to your brain that this isn’t a threat—it’s an empowering move forward.

And here’s where practice comes in. Each time you confidently share your new rates, you’re building a habit. Over time, your brain starts to adapt, and what once felt uncomfortable begins to feel natural—even exciting.

It’s important to remember that feeling a little discomfort doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It’s simply your brain adjusting to growth. And each time you push through that hesitation, you’re training your brain to support your decisions and reinforcing your belief in your value.

So, if you’re feeling unsure or hesitant, know that it’s part of the process. You’re stretching, growing, and building the confidence to stand behind your worth. And trust me—this gets easier with time.

Next, let’s tackle how to handle client pushback and why it’s totally normal.

Understanding Client Pushback and Why It’s Normal

Let’s be real—one of the biggest fears about raising your rates is, “What will my clients think?” It’s completely normal to feel that way, especially when you’ve worked hard to build strong relationships. No one wants to risk upsetting their clients or jeopardizing those connections.

But here’s the thing: client pushback doesn’t mean you’re making a mistake. In fact, it’s actually pretty common—and it can even be a great opportunity to reinforce the value you bring.

When you inform a client about a rate increase, you might hear things like, “Why the change?” or “Can we stick to the old rate?” And yeah, those questions can feel a little uncomfortable in the moment. But most of the time, they’re not rejections. They’re just your clients trying to understand your decision. It’s a conversation, not a confrontation.

Here’s a fresh perspective: when clients ask about a rate increase, they’re giving you the perfect opening to highlight the value of your work. It’s your chance to remind them why they chose you in the first place. You can explain the dedication, expertise, and results you bring to the table. Often, that extra clarity is all they need to see the rate increase as fair and reasonable.

Pushback can actually build trust. When you respond with confidence and transparency, it shows your clients that you’ve thought this through and that your rates are about fairness—not just numbers. They’ll see your professionalism and your commitment to providing top-notch service.

Now, let’s be honest—there’s always a chance that a client may resist or even decide to move on. And while that can feel tough, it’s not a failure. Sometimes, letting go of a client who isn’t aligned with your new rates makes room for one who is—a client who truly values your work and is excited to invest in your services.

So, if you’re feeling nervous about pushback, remember that it’s totally normal. More importantly, it’s an opportunity. With a clear and confident approach, these conversations can actually strengthen your relationships and reinforce the worth of what you provide.

The right clients will recognize your value and understand that raising your rates allows you to continue delivering exceptional service. And who knows? These discussions might even deepen your client relationships in ways you didn’t expect.

Next, let’s set some meaningful goals for this rate increase.

Setting Goals for Your Rate Increase

You might be wondering, “Do I really need goals just to raise my rates?” The short answer? Absolutely. Setting clear goals isn’t just helpful—it can make all the difference in how confidently you approach this change.

Raising your rates isn’t just about updating a number. It’s about deciding what kind of business you want to build, the clients you want to work with, and even the life you want for yourself. Goals give you that clarity and sense of purpose, so you can make this decision with intention instead of hesitation.

Start by asking yourself: What do I want to achieve by raising my rates? This isn’t about justifying the decision to anyone else. It’s about having a clear, personal reason for making the change. Maybe you want to reduce your workload, working with fewer clients at higher rates, so you can focus on providing exceptional service. Or maybe you’ve been wanting to invest in better tools, training, or resources to elevate your client experience. Whatever your reasons are, putting them into words can keep you focused, especially if self-doubt starts to creep in.

Another goal worth considering is how this change could improve your work-life balance. Are your current rates forcing you to stretch yourself too thin, juggling too many clients just to make ends meet? Imagine having a more manageable client load while still earning what you need—or even more. A rate increase isn’t just about earning more money; it’s about creating a workload that’s sustainable for you and beneficial for your clients.

And don’t forget to think long-term. Where do you see your business a year from now? Five years from now? Maybe you want to grow steadily, building a client base that truly values your expertise. Or perhaps you’re looking to specialize in a niche area, where your higher rates reflect the advanced skills and results you provide. Connecting your rate increase to your bigger picture can help you stay motivated and see the “why” behind it all.

Setting these goals isn’t just practical—it’s empowering. When you know exactly why you’re raising your rates, it’s so much easier to communicate your decision and stand behind it without hesitation. Your goals serve as a reminder that this isn’t a random or spur-of-the-moment decision. It’s a thoughtful, intentional step toward building the kind of business—and life—you really want.

Take a few minutes to write it down: What does this rate increase mean for my business, my clients, and my overall quality of life? When you’re clear on what you’re working toward, you’ll feel so much more confident about the process. And later, when you look back, you’ll be able to say, “That was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”

Now, let me share a story about a client who went through this process and learned how to raise her rates with confidence.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Raising Her Rates With Confidence

I’ve worked with so many accounting entrepreneurs who’ve struggled with raising their rates. Let me share the story of one CPA client—it’s a great example of what’s possible when you approach this with the right mindset.

When we first started working together, she was feeling stuck. She’d been running her practice for years, had incredibly loyal clients, and had built strong relationships. But despite all her experience and hard work, she hadn’t adjusted her rates in years.

Every time the thought crossed her mind, doubts would flood in: “What if they think I’m being unreasonable? What if they leave?” She worried that raising her rates might make her clients question her loyalty.

Because of this, she found herself juggling way too many clients, working long hours, and feeling burned out. Her workload was overwhelming, and she was sacrificing her personal life to keep up. Deep down, she knew something had to change, but she didn’t know where to start.

The first thing we worked on was shifting her mindset around her value. We spent time digging into the impact her work had on her clients. She started to see how her expertise and dedication gave them peace of mind—something they couldn’t put a price on. This realization was a game-changer. She finally understood that her rates needed to reflect the quality and value she was providing.

Next, we tackled her client conversations. We practiced responses that felt natural, respectful, and confident. She was nervous at first, but when she started having those conversations, something surprising happened. Most of her clients were supportive. They valued her work enough to invest in her services.

A few clients decided to move on, and while that wasn’t easy, it opened the door for new clients—clients who respected her expertise and were happy to pay her higher rates.

It didn’t take long for the changes to kick in. With a lighter workload and clients who truly valued her, she felt more energized, more focused, and, most importantly, more balanced in her life. She even told me, “This has changed everything.”

I hope her story inspires you. Raising your rates isn’t just about numbers. It’s about honoring your worth, valuing the incredible service you provide, and building a business that works for you as much as it does for your clients.

When you’re clear on your value and confident in communicating it, you’ll start making decisions that bring more balance, energy, and fulfillment into your work.

Now, let’s wrap this up with today’s key takeaway and an action item for the week ahead.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Here’s the big takeaway from today: Raising your rates is more than just a financial decision—it’s a way to honor your expertise, reflect the quality of the service you provide, and build a sustainable business that supports you and your clients. When you shift your mindset about your value and prepare for those client conversations, setting rates that align with your worth becomes a confident, empowering move.

So here’s your action item for the week: Take a moment to ask yourself, What value do I consistently bring to my clients that should be reflected in my rates?

Think about it—what results do you help your clients achieve? How does your work give them peace of mind? What expertise do you bring to solve challenges they can’t handle on their own? When you focus on the real value you deliver every day, it becomes clear that your rates should reflect that level of service.

This small shift in perspective can be a game-changer. It not only boosts your confidence but also sets you up to communicate your rates with clarity and professionalism.

Take the time to reflect on this—you might be surprised by what you discover. And remember, this is about more than just numbers. It’s about recognizing and owning your worth. 

Well, that’s what I have for you today. Thank you for joining me as I discussed raising your rates with confidence this tax season. I hope you’re walking away with a fresh perspective on what it means to honor your expertise and the value you bring to your clients.

As I always say, you’ve worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you’d like to discuss anything you’re struggling with, you can schedule a free 30-minute call with me at  https://thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar/. 

Also, if you haven’t already, make sure to take The Smarter Accountant Quiz at www.thesmarteraccountant.com to see if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain. It’s a great starting point to see where you are and how you can improve.

Lastly, if you’ve found today’s episode helpful, I’d really appreciate it if you could spread the word to other accountants. The more we get this message out, the more we can change the narrative in the accounting profession and help accountants everywhere.

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

Let me ask you something—have you ever dreaded a conversation so much that you kept pushing it off? Maybe it was with a client who made a mistake, a coworker who’s missing deadlines, or even your boss piling on too much work. 

We’ve all been there. Those conversations sit in the back of your mind like a ticking clock, but avoiding them doesn’t make the problem go away. 

The thing is, most of us aren’t taught how to handle these moments. It’s not like there’s a chapter in Accounting 101 called “How to Talk About Hard Stuff Without Making It Worse.” 

For accountants, this is a big deal because so much of our work relies on precision and deadlines. Whether it’s addressing a client who keeps sending documents late during tax season or discussing a colleague’s repeated errors in audit schedules, the stakes are high. 

The truth is that how we approach these moments can mean the difference between a smooth workflow and an avalanche of stress later on. That’s where this playbook comes in. 

Today, I’m giving you a step-by-step guide to handling tough conversations with confidence, clarity, and ease. We’re going to start by looking at why these conversations feel so hard in the first place—spoiler alert: it has everything to do with how your brain is wired. Let’s dive in. 

Play 1: Understand the Brain Science Behind Tough Conversations 

Tough conversations feel uncomfortable for a reason—it’s not because you’re bad at them. It’s your brain doing exactly what it’s wired to do: protect you. 

Think about it—why does your brain treat telling a client about mistakes like facing a hungry lion? It’s your Toddler brain, the built-in alarm system that kept us safe back in the day. But now, it can’t tell the difference between actual danger and an awkward conversation. 

Here’s the thing: your brain processes perceived threats in about 200 milliseconds—faster than you blink. That’s why avoiding tough conversations feels automatic. But avoiding them doesn’t protect you—it holds you back. 

For accountants, addressing things like missed deadlines or feedback isn’t life-or-death. These moments are opportunities to solve problems, build trust, and improve relationships. So, how do you calm your brain down? 

First, pause. When that discomfort hits, take a deep breath and remind yourself, “This isn’t dangerous—it’s just a conversation.” 

Next, reframe it. Instead of seeing confrontation, focus on collaboration. What’s the goal? How can this help both of you move forward? 

And here’s a helpful trick: name what’s happening. Saying, “This is just my Toddler brain overreacting,” can reduce emotional intensity by up to 50%, according to research. 

The bottom line is that your brain’s reaction is normal—it’s just a habit. And like any habit, it can change. When you understand what’s happening, you’ll feel more confident stepping into tough conversations. 

Now that we’ve covered why these moments feel so hard, let’s move on to preparing your mindset so you can handle them with clarity and control.

Play 2: Prepare Your Mindset 

Before you step into a tough conversation, the first thing to do is get your head in the right place. Think of this as setting the stage for how you want the conversation to go. 

If you walk in feeling scattered or defensive, that energy will spill over. But if you’re clear and calm, it sets a totally different tone. 

Start by setting an intention. Ask yourself, “What does success look like here?” And no, it’s not about proving the other person wrong or getting them to apologize. Success might mean finding a solution, building trust, or simply clarifying expectations. 

Knowing what you want keeps you focused and makes it easier to guide the conversation in a productive direction. 

Next, check in with your emotions. How do you want to feel during this conversation? Calm? Confident? Curious? Pick one and think about how you’ll maintain it, even if things get tense. 

For example, if calm is your goal, remind yourself to pause and breathe if the conversation starts to heat up. 

Finally, plan your points. This isn’t about scripting every word—it’s just about knowing the key things you want to cover. Think of it like creating a map: if the conversation veers off course, you’ll have a clear way to bring it back on track. 

Studies show that people who visualize a positive outcome before a difficult conversation are 30% more likely to stay calm and focused. When you take the time to prepare your mindset, you’re not just getting ready for the conversation—you’re giving yourself the tools to lead it with clarity and control. 

Now that you’ve got your head in the game, let’s talk about how to set the stage for collaboration. 

Play 3: Set the Stage for Collaboration 

Let’s talk about how you start a conversation because it really does set the tone for everything that follows. If you open on the right foot, even tricky topics can feel more manageable and productive. 

Did you know the first 30 seconds of a conversation set the emotional tone for the rest of it? People decide whether to engage or defend based on how you start. 

Here’s the thing: if you come in hot, frustrated, or pointing fingers, the other person will likely go on the defensive—it’s just human nature. But if you approach it with calm and curiosity, you create space for teamwork instead of conflict. 

For example, let’s say you’re reviewing a client’s bookkeeping and notice repeated errors. Saying, “You need to fix these mistakes,” might make them feel defensive and embarrassed. 

But shifting to, “Let’s review this together and find a way to simplify how these are categorized moving forward,” softens the message and invites collaboration. 

The key is to start by asking yourself what you really want to achieve. Is it about fixing an issue, clarifying expectations, or adjusting behavior? When you know your goal, it’s easier to steer the conversation in the right direction. 

Another tip—don’t make assumptions. Instead of saying, “Why didn’t you meet the deadline?” try, “I noticed the deadline was missed—was something getting in the way?” It softens the tone and shows you’re open to understanding their perspective. 

When people feel heard and respected, they’re much more likely to work with you instead of against you. Starting the conversation this way makes everything that follows smoother and more productive. 

Now that we’ve set the stage for collaboration, let’s talk about the power of words. 

Play 4: The Power of Words 

Let’s be real—words are powerful. The way you phrase something can either build a bridge or put up a wall. Collaborative language pulls people in, while accusatory words almost guarantee resistance. 

In fact, research shows that replacing ‘you should’ with ‘let’s consider’ makes people 80% more receptive to feedback, according to linguistic research. Think about it—if someone said to you, “You should have met the deadline,” wouldn’t you immediately feel defensive? 

Now imagine they said, “Let’s consider what can we do to meet deadlines moving forward.” That small shift changes the whole vibe. Instead of feeling blamed, you feel like part of a solution. 

Here’s another example: swapping, “This is wrong,” for, “Let’s review this together and make adjustments.” The first makes you feel judged, while the second makes it feel like teamwork. 

Even with tough topics, collaborative language creates a sense of safety and partnership. These small changes might seem subtle, but they make a huge difference. 

Words like “we” and “let’s” send a message that you’re in it together. And when the conversation feels collaborative, the other person is far more likely to engage constructively. 

This is especially true for accountants because whether you’re pointing out an error to a client or addressing an issue with a colleague, the way you choose your words can completely change how the conversation unfolds. 

The best part is that collaborative language isn’t just polite—it’s strategic. It helps you get your message across without triggering defensiveness or shutting the other person down. When you show that you’re working toward a shared goal, it creates trust and moves things forward. 

So the next time you need to have a difficult conversation, think about how you can weave words like “we” and “let’s” into your message. Not only will it make your point clearer, but it’ll also help the other person feel included and valued. And that’s how you turn a hard conversation into a productive one. 

Besides the power of your words, it’s also important to master the art of listening. 

Play 5: Master the Art of Listening 

The truth is that listening might seem simple, but it’s actually the secret weapon of effective communication. When people feel heard, their defenses drop, and the conversation becomes much easier to navigate. 

According to Harvard Business Review, people who feel actively listened to are 60% more likely to be open to feedback. Listening isn’t just about sitting quietly while the other person talks. It’s about showing them you’re paying attention and that their perspective matters. 

A great way to do this is through active listening. Paraphrase what they’ve said and ask for confirmation: “What I’m hearing is that this is an issue—did I get that right?” It’s a small step with a big impact. 

For accountants, this is a total game-changer. Whether you’re clarifying a client’s needs or discussing team priorities, careful listening avoids misunderstandings and builds trust. It shows you’re not rushing through the conversation—you’re genuinely invested in understanding the issue. 

But listening isn’t just about gathering facts. It’s about creating a moment where the other person feels valued and respected. When you listen with intention, you send the message, “I care about what you’re saying, and I want to get this right.” That simple act of listening can build trust faster than almost anything else. 

In high-stress situations we often face, this skill is especially critical. Think about a client frustrated over a missed deadline or a coworker struggling with their tasks. By listening carefully and reflecting back what you’ve heard, you diffuse tension and shift the conversation toward collaboration. 

Here’s the best part: listening doesn’t just help the other person—it helps you too. When you really understand their perspective, it’s so much easier to find common ground and move forward. Instead of guessing or assuming, you’re working with the full picture. 

For example, if you’ve ever left a conversation wondering, ‘Did I really hear what they were trying to say?’ then active listening is the answer. It’s not just polite—it’s a game-changer for building trust. 

Next time you’re in a tough conversation, try this: pause, paraphrase, and ask, ‘Did I get that right?’ It’s amazing how much clarity and connection you’ll create with just a few words. 

Last but not least, let’s talk about the final play in the playbook – closing with confidence. 

Play 6: Close with Confidence 

The truth is that how you wrap up a conversation is just as important as how you start it. The way you close can leave everyone feeling more confident about what comes next—or leave them wondering what just happened. 

A clear and positive wrap-up is key. It ties everything together and reassures the other person that you’re both on the same page. 

You might say something like, “Thanks for working through this with me—I think we’ve made great progress.” Or, “Let’s set a follow-up to make sure this stays on track.” Simple, right? But it makes a big difference. 

Even when the conversation is tough, ending on a good note reinforces the relationship. It shows you value their effort and that you’re committed to moving forward together. You’re basically saying, “We’ve tackled this, and we’re in a better place because of it.” 

You may have heard the expression, “People don’t remember what you said, they remember how you made them feel.” Well, it’s true – people remember how they feel at the end of a conversation. 

If you close with positivity and clarity, you leave a lasting impression of collaboration and trust. That’s a huge win, especially in professional relationships. 

A strong close also keeps the door open for future conversations. It’s like planting the seeds for ongoing collaboration. Even if the issue isn’t completely resolved, ending with gratitude or next steps shows that progress is being made. 

So, the next time you’re wrapping up a tough conversation, think about how you can leave it on a high note. Whether it’s thanking them for their input or setting a plan to follow up, a confident close can turn any conversation into an opportunity to build trust and connection.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Examples Of Mastering Difficult Conversations

Let me share a few moments from my own career. As accountants, we’re no strangers to tough conversations. I’ve had my share—some went well, and others taught me valuable lessons about what not to do. 

But here’s the thing: every one of them was an opportunity to grow, build trust, and refine how I approach challenges. I want to show you how I’ve used this playbook in my own journey.

Example 1: Addressing a Client’s Repeated Errors

I’ll never forget this one client who consistently sent in messy reports. I knew I had to say something, but I didn’t want to risk damaging the relationship. So, I started by reframing the situation as an opportunity to improve how we worked together.

I said something like, ‘I’ve noticed a few issues in the reports, and it’s slowing things down on my side. Can we take a look together to figure out a process that works better for both of us?’

Their response surprised me—they admitted their software wasn’t working properly and asked for advice on improving their workflow. What could’ve been a conflict turned into an opportunity to help them and make my life easier.

Example 2: Setting Boundaries with a Manager

Early in my career, I had a manager who constantly handed me extra work at the last minute. I was drowning but didn’t know how to say ‘no’ without sounding like I couldn’t handle it. One day, I decided to try a different approach.

I said, “I really want to do my best on all these projects, but my workload is piling up, and I’m worried about missing deadlines. Could we go over what’s most urgent so I can prioritize the right way?”

To my surprise, they were open to it. We adjusted a few deadlines, and I learned how important it is to speak up before the issue became even bigger.

The reason why this worked is that I wasn’t complaining—I showed I cared about delivering quality work. That shifted the tone from resistance to collaboration.

So hopefully you can see that with just a few tweaks to how you approach these conversations, you can turn potentially awkward moments into opportunities. These examples are proof that even the toughest conversations can be handled with confidence when you take the time to manage your mindset and choose your words carefully.

Now I’m going to share the key takeaway from today and an action item for the upcoming week.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway here is that tough conversations don’t have to feel so tough when you understand what’s really going on. Your brain might be wired to treat these moments like danger zones, but the truth is, they’re opportunities to solve problems, build trust, and strengthen relationships. 

When you work with your brain instead of fighting against it, prepare your mindset, use the right words, listen actively, and close with confidence, you can turn even the most awkward conversations into productive ones.

Now, here’s a question to ask yourself before your next conversation: “What’s my goal here, and how can I approach this in a way that builds trust?”

Think about it—having clarity on your goal helps you stay focused, even when things feel uncomfortable. Are you aiming to solve a problem? Build a stronger relationship? Clear up confusion? Once you know your goal, it becomes easier to frame your words, choose a collaborative tone, and really listen to the other person.

Why does this work? Because when you approach a conversation with intention and trust-building in mind, it shifts your energy. You’re not just trying to get something off your chest—you’re creating space for both of you to move forward. And that’s the real game-changer.

So next time, take a moment to pause, ask yourself this question, and let it guide how you show up. 

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the accountant’s playbook for mastering difficult conversations.  I love teaching topics that we all have to deal with as accountants, but in a way that you might not have heard of before.

Again, my goal is to help smart accountants become smarter, so I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

If you’d like to discuss how to become a Smarter Accountant, you can schedule a free 30-minute call with me at  https://thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar/. 

And don’t forget to check back each week for more tips and strategies to help you go from being a stressed accountant to a Smarter Accountant.

Also, if you haven’t already, make sure to take The Smarter Accountant Quiz at www.thesmarteraccountant.com to see if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain. It’s a great starting point to see where you are and how you can improve.

Lastly, if you’ve found today’s episode helpful, I’d really appreciate it if you could spread the word to other accountants. The more we get this message out, the more we can change the narrative in the accounting profession and help accountants everywhere.

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

So, let me ask you something. Have you ever noticed how every January feels like a fresh start? It’s like we turn the page to a new calendar, and suddenly, we’re filled with this rush of motivation. 

This is it. This is the year we’re going to get it all together. We’re going to stick to the plan, be super productive, and finally feel like we’re on top of things.

And then… February rolls around. And it’s like—what happened? 

The excitement fizzles out, old habits sneak back in, and we’re right back to feeling overwhelmed, playing catch-up, and wondering where all that “new year, new me” energy went. Sound familiar?

My husband goes to the gym 3 times a week and always laughs about how the gym is more crowded in January and then it goes back to “normal” in February.  It’s completely normal to start a new year excited, with the best of intentions and then fizzle out pretty quickly.

Here’s the thing—this doesn’t happen because you lack willpower or discipline. It’s not because you’re lazy or bad at following through. 

It’s because of your brain. Your brain is actually wired to resist change, and that’s why all those big plans tend to fall apart once the initial excitement wears off.

But don’t worry—there’s a smarter way to approach the year ahead.

Today, I’m going to share something I call The Smarter Year Framework. It’s a simple, three-step approach that’s going to help you set yourself up for success next year without falling into the same traps that derail most people. 

And here’s what makes this episode different: we’re going to look at why this framework works through the lens of brain science.

Because when you understand how your brain actually works, you can stop fighting it and start using it to your advantage. You’ll be able to create real, lasting change—change that doesn’t just look good in January but actually sticks all year long.

So if you’re tired of repeating the same old cycle and you’re ready to set yourself up for a year that feels different, stick with me. I promise—this isn’t about doing more or working harder. It’s about working smarter by understanding your brain and using it to create the results you really want.

The Brain Science Behind Why We Struggle to Plan Effectively

Here’s something most accountants don’t realize: your brain loves the familiar. It doesn’t care if the familiar is stress, overcommitment, or constantly feeling behind. If that’s the pattern it knows, that’s where it wants to stay—because familiar equals safe, and safe means less effort.

So when you sit down in January with all those big, shiny plans for the year—“I’m going to work out every day, stay on top of emails, grow my business, spend more time with my family”—your brain freaks out. New habits and new plans require energy, and your brain’s first response is, “Whoa, this looks like work. Let’s just stick to what we know.”

This is exactly why you keep ending up in the same spot year after year, even though you’ve promised yourself that this time will be different. It’s not because you’re not trying hard enough. It’s because your brain is working against you, keeping you locked into those familiar patterns.

And let’s talk about overplanning for a second—because I know a lot of us are guilty of this. We write out these huge to-do lists, filled with every single thing we think we should be doing. We convince ourselves that if we just pack more into our day—more goals, more tasks, more commitments—then somehow everything will fall into place.

But here’s the problem: your brain isn’t built to focus on everything at once. It just can’t. When you overload your to-do list, your brain gets overwhelmed, and instead of taking action, it freezes. 

That’s when procrastination sneaks in. You stare at the list, feel completely drained before you even start, and suddenly, you’re doing anything other than what you planned. Sound familiar?

The truth is, there is a smarter way accountants can approach the year. It’s not about adding more—it’s about being intentional, choosing the few things that actually matter, and letting go of the rest. That’s what makes it a smarter year, not just a busier one.

And that’s where The Smarter Year Framework comes in. It’s designed to work with your brain, not against it. We’re going to start by disrupting those old patterns—because if you want to change how next year feels, you have to get clear on what’s working, what isn’t, and what you need to let go of.

The Smarter Year Framework: Step-by-Step with Brain Science

Now that you know why your brain keeps tripping you up, let’s talk about how to work with it instead of against it. That’s where The Smarter Year Framework comes in. 

It’s a simple, three-step process to help you plan intentionally, get clear on what matters, and set yourself up for a year that actually works.

And the best part is that each step is backed by brain science. Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Reflect

The first step is simple, but it’s one most accountants skip: taking time to reflect on the year you just lived through.

Reflection isn’t just about what you accomplished—it’s about understanding what worked, what didn’t, and how it felt. This is the smarter way accountants can break free from autopilot and take back control of their year.

When you pause to reflect, you interrupt that autopilot. You activate the part of the brain I refer to as the Supervising Parent—the decision-making part of your brain—which forces clarity and awareness. Instead of mindlessly jumping into the new year, you get intentional about what you want to change.

Here are two simple questions to guide you:

• What energized me this year?
• What drained me?

Think about that for a minute. What were the moments where you felt focused, productive, or fulfilled? And what were the tasks or habits that left you feeling completely drained or resentful? Be honest here, because those answers are going to be your starting point for everything else.

Step 2: Release

This is the part that can feel uncomfortable, but it’s where the real magic happens: letting go of the tasks, commitments, or mindsets that no longer serve you.

Here’s the thing—your brain hates letting go. It’s called loss aversion. Your brain sees anything you let go of as a loss, and it panics: “What if I regret this? What if I miss out?” That’s why you keep saying yes to things you don’t want to do or holding onto commitments that drain your energy.

But here’s the brain science truth: holding onto unnecessary “mental clutter” eats up your cognitive energy. It’s like having too many tabs open on your computer. You think you’re multitasking, but you’re just slowing everything down.

When you release what isn’t working—whether that’s a low-value task, an unfulfilling project, or even a mindset like “I have to do it all myself”—you create space. You free up the energy and focus you need to work on what does matter.

So here’s your question:

• What am I ready to let go of next year?

This could be a task, a habit, or even a mindset that’s holding you back. Whatever it is, releasing it is going to feel like taking a weight off your shoulders.

Step 3: Refocus

Once you’ve reflected and released, it’s time to refocus. This is where you get clear on the few priorities that will truly move the needle for you next year—both personally and professionally.

The brain science behind this is simple: your brain thrives on focused, high-impact work. Trying to juggle too many priorities at once? That’s just going to overwhelm your brain, slow you down, and make you feel scattered.

When you refocus on fewer, high-value goals, you reduce mental clutter. You’re aligning your brain’s limited energy with the outcomes that actually matter.

Here’s the key: instead of trying to do everything, pick one to three priorities for the year. Ask yourself:

• What are the 1–3 things that matter most to me next year?

Maybe it’s growing your business by focusing on high-value clients. Maybe it’s improving your work-life balance by learning how to effectively manage your time and set better boundaries. Or maybe it’s prioritizing your own growth—personally or professionally.

The point is, when you refocus, you give yourself permission to let the small stuff go. You stop spreading yourself too thin and start making real progress where it matters.

So, to recap:

1. Reflect: Interrupt autopilot and get clear on what worked and what didn’t.
2. Release: Let go of the things that are draining you to create space for what matters.
3. Refocus: Choose the few priorities that will have the biggest impact next year.

Now that you know the framework, let’s talk about why it works—how understanding your brain makes this approach so much smarter.

Why This Framework Works Better Than Traditional Goal Setting

Here’s the problem with most goal-setting approaches: they completely ignore how your brain actually works.

You’ve probably been there—you start the year by setting big, ambitious goals, mapping out every detail, and feeling super motivated. But a month or two in, you’re overwhelmed, avoiding the plan you made, and wondering why you can’t just stick to it.

It’s not your fault. Traditional goal setting tries to force the brain into overdrive, which almost always backfires. 

The brain doesn’t like being overloaded. It’s wired to conserve energy, which means the second you try to “do it all,” it pushes back. That’s when overwhelm hits, procrastination takes over, and you find yourself scrolling your phone instead of making progress.

The Smarter Year Framework works because it respects how your brain operates. Instead of fighting against it, you’re working with it. 

Here’s how:

• Reflection disrupts autopilot – Your brain loves habits and patterns, even if they’re not serving you. Reflecting on the year you just lived through forces you to pause and take stock. It stops you from blindly repeating the same mistakes and helps you make better, intentional decisions moving forward.
  
• Releasing removes mental clutter – Think of your brain like a desk. If it’s covered in piles of paper, random tasks, and outdated commitments, it’s impossible to focus. Letting go of what doesn’t matter is like clearing off that desk. Suddenly, you can think clearly, prioritize, and get things done without feeling like your brain is bursting at the seams.
  
• Refocusing directs energy toward high-value actions – Your brain can only handle so much attention and focus in a day. By narrowing your priorities to the few things that actually matter, you’re telling your brain, “This is where we’re going to direct our energy.” It’s like putting gas in the tank instead of spinning your wheels on things that won’t move you forward.

Here’s the best part: this isn’t about doing more. It’s about making your brain work smarter for you. When you stop trying to cram 20 goals into your year and focus on what really moves the needle, you’ll not only feel less overwhelmed, but you’ll also see real, meaningful progress.

And isn’t that the goal? To get to the end of the year and feel like you didn’t just check boxes—you actually accomplished something that mattered to you?

Now that you know why this works, let me share a real-life story of someone who used this framework and completely transformed the way they approached their year

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: The Smarter Year Framework In Action

I worked with a client last year who, on the surface, was doing well—growing her business, making good money—but underneath, she was burned out and overwhelmed. She was working late nights, juggling too many low-value clients, and saying “yes” to everything because she thought being busy meant being successful.

When she stopped to reflect, she realized much of her time and energy was going to things that drained her. She’d fallen into autopilot and hadn’t questioned it. 

That’s when we moved to release—she let go of difficult clients, delegated tasks that didn’t need her attention, and, most importantly, dropped the mindset that she had to do it all.

Finally, she refocused on the few priorities that mattered most: higher-value clients, growing her advisory services, and setting clear boundaries around her work hours. By working with her brain instead of against it, she stayed consistent and made real progress.

In just a few months, she was working fewer hours but making more money, feeling more in control and less stressed. She didn’t just work smarter—she approached her year like a smarter accountant, and the results proved it.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur or an employee, whether you’re in public or private accounting, this framework will help you have a better year.

Now, let’s wrap this up with a key takeaway you can use to start creating your smarter year.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Alright, here’s the big takeaway: if you want next year to feel different—if you want to stop spinning your wheels and start making real progress—you need to reflect, release, and refocus. 

The bottom line is that when you work with your brain instead of against it, you create a year that’s not just productive but intentional and fulfilling.

So here’s a little challenge for you: What’s one thing you’re ready to let go of next year? 

Maybe it’s a task that drains you, a commitment that doesn’t align with your priorities, or even a mindset that’s been holding you back. Take a minute and really think about that. What’s one thing you can release to make space for what matters most?

And if you’re ready to take this work even deeper and set yourself up for a smarter year, I’d love to help. Head over to www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar and book a free session with me. We’ll work together to create a plan that actually works for you—so you can stop feeling overwhelmed and start seeing real results.

Because here’s the truth: you don’t need to do more next year—you just need to do what matters. That is how you have a smarter year.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the brain science behind the Smarter Year Framework.  I hope I’ve given you something to consider as one year ends and a new year begins.  

Again, my goal is to help smart accountants become smarter, so I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

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.

At the end of each podcast, I always say, “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.” And there’s a reason I repeat this every week.

The accounting profession is built on traditions and long-standing beliefs that often go unquestioned. Many accountants are struggling with stress, overwhelm, and burnout because they’ve accepted these norms without realizing there’s another way. 

This podcast is about offering a different perspective—a way to challenge those beliefs and create a more sustainable, fulfilling career. But for that message to spread, we need more accountants to hear it.

If you’ve been in the accounting profession for a while, you’ve probably heard plenty of phrases like “tax season is stressful” or “the work never really slows down.” These beliefs get passed around so often that they start to feel like facts. 

But what if they’re not? What if the stress we experience as accountants isn’t just part of the job but a result of the stories we’ve been telling ourselves for years?

In many ways, the accounting profession has become stuck in these old narratives. We see others around us feeling stressed and overwhelmed, and we naturally mirror those feelings. 

In fact, it’s human nature to pick up on the emotions of those in our environment—especially in a field like accounting, where long hours, tight deadlines, and high expectations are the norm. But when we do this without questioning it, we end up reinforcing a belief system that might not actually serve us. 

Whether it’s tax season, year-end reviews, or managing difficult clients, we’ve been conditioned to accept that accounting comes with constant pressure. We’ve been taught to believe that if you’re not stressed, maybe you’re not doing enough.

The problem with these narratives is that they become so deeply ingrained that we stop questioning them altogether. They get passed down from one generation of accountants to the next, without anyone taking a step back to ask, “Does it really have to be this way?” 

It’s almost as if we wear our stress like a badge of honor, something that proves our dedication to the job. But at what cost? Burnout, overwhelm, and dissatisfaction have become widespread in the profession, and the very things we’ve been led to believe are necessary for success are often what make the job feel unsustainable.

But what if it didn’t have to be this way? What if the stress we experience isn’t necessarily about the workload but more about the way we’ve been taught to think about it? 

Whether you’re dealing with tax season or a different demanding period in your accounting career, these feelings often stem from beliefs we haven’t stopped to challenge. It’s not just about the amount of work we have to do; it’s the stories we tell ourselves about that work. 

The question we need to start asking ourselves is: Are we stuck in a narrative that’s no longer serving us? And more importantly, what would happen if we chose to change it? 

Imagine what your work experience could look like if you let go of these old, limiting beliefs. What if, instead of focusing on the stress and overwhelm, we started focusing on how we could approach our work differently? What if we challenged the idea that stress is an inevitable part of being an accountant?

It’s time to consider that the old ways don’t have to define our future. No matter what area of accounting you’re in, there’s an opportunity to break free from the narrative of stress and overwhelm. 

By questioning these long-held beliefs, we can create a different, more sustainable way of working that allows us to thrive instead of just survive.

The Tribe Mentality: How We Mirror Those Around Us

As humans, our brains naturally pick up on and mirror the emotions of those around us. This instinct, called “tribe mentality,” has helped humans connect and survive for thousands of years. 

In our jobs, especially in accounting, this often shows up when we take on the stress and overwhelm of our coworkers without even realizing it. When one person feels anxious, it’s easy for that feeling to spread, creating an environment where stress feels like the norm.

Think about the last time you were working during a busy time, like tax season or a major deadline. Everyone around you may have seemed stressed, juggling papers, rushing to meet deadlines, and feeling worn out. Even if you started the day calm, it’s likely you began to feel their stress too. 

This is how easily we absorb the energy around us. You might have started to feel the pressure building, thinking that stress is just part of the job and that you have no choice but to feel the same way as everyone else.

But here’s something to consider: that stress you’re feeling may not actually be yours. Often, we adopt the thoughts and feelings of those around us because we’re wired to connect. We see others acting stressed or overwhelmed, and we naturally fall into the same mindset. 

But just because others are feeling pressured doesn’t mean you have to be. Many of us mirror the feelings in our environment without stopping to ask ourselves, “Do I really need to feel this way?”

Unfortunately, this is how tribe mentality works. We don’t want to be different, and we want to fit in. If everyone else is feeling overwhelmed, it can feel strange to stay calm. 

But what if you allowed yourself to step out of that cycle? What if, instead of taking on the stress of those around you, you decided to manage your own thoughts and emotions? You have the choice to decide how you want to feel, no matter how others are reacting.

Noticing how we mirror others is the first step to changing how we experience work. It’s not about ignoring challenges or pretending everything is fine. That’s not what I’m saying at all.  It’s about recognizing that just because your coworkers are stressed, doesn’t mean you have to be. 

You have the power to choose your own path and, in doing so, you might even inspire others to do the same. 

But thinking differently starts with recognizing the beliefs we’ve taken for granted. To create real change, we need to start challenging what we think we know about accounting and the stress we experience.

Challenging What We Think We Know

In the accounting profession, we tend to accept certain beliefs as facts, but when we take a closer look, they’re often just assumptions we’ve picked up along the way. These thoughts get passed down from one accountant to another until they become so ingrained that we stop questioning them. But the truth is, a lot of what we believe about our work is optional.

Take “tax season is stressful,” for example. This is something we hear all the time, and eventually, it starts to feel like an unavoidable reality. The same goes for “working long hours equals success.” These beliefs have been repeated so often that they’ve become part of the profession’s culture. 

But just because they’re common doesn’t make them true. What if tax season didn’t have to be stressful? What if success wasn’t measured by how many hours you put in, but by the quality of the work you do and the balance you maintain in your life?

In a few minutes I’ll share how I have had stress-free tax seasons for 10 years by challenging what I thought I knew, but that’s not the only limiting belief we have.

There are plenty of other phrases we toss around that perpetuate the stress and overwhelm in accounting:

“You’ll never get ahead unless you put in the extra hours.”

“We’re accountants; we’re supposed to be overworked.”

“Get used to being exhausted—this is how it is.”

“This is what we signed up for.”

“Clients are always going to be difficult, and we just have to deal with it.”

“If you’re not working late, you’re not dedicated enough.”

“You’ll never have a real work-life balance in this field.”

These phrases might seem harmless when we say them in passing, but they reinforce a mindset that stress and exhaustion are inevitable. We rarely stop to ask ourselves, “Is this actually true?” or “Does believing this help me?” Instead, we just accept them as part of the job.

But what if we didn’t? What if we started to challenge these assumptions and asked ourselves whether they serve us? Would we approach our work differently if we stopped believing that long hours are the only path to success? Could we find more peace and balance if we questioned whether stress is really necessary, or just something we’ve been told to expect?

The first step in changing the narrative of the accounting profession is to start questioning the beliefs we’ve taken for granted. By challenging these old ways of thinking, we open the door to new possibilities—ones where success and balance can coexist, and where stress doesn’t have to be the price we pay for being accountants.

By starting to question these long-held beliefs, we can create the mental space to consider a new approach—one where we actively reshape the future of the accounting profession. 

Continuing to hold onto these outdated beliefs is not only unhelpful but also harmful to the future of the profession. That’s why it’s crucial to understand why the ‘old ways’ have to go if we want to create a sustainable future.

Why the ‘Old Ways’ Have to Die Out for a Sustainable Future

Let’s be honest, the traditional attitudes and beliefs that have shaped the accounting profession for so long are no longer working. We’ve been holding on to ideas that are not only outdated but are actively contributing to burnout, stress, and dissatisfaction. 

The “old ways”—believing that long hours equal success, that stress is just part of the job, and that working non-stop is the only way to get ahead—are pushing accountants to their breaking point. And if we don’t change the way we think about our work, we risk pushing an entire generation of accountants out of the profession.

Look at the growing number of accountants experiencing burnout. It’s not just a coincidence. It’s a direct result of the mindset we’ve been conditioned to accept. The constant pressure to perform, meet deadlines, and work long hours is not sustainable. 

The belief that success is measured by how much you sacrifice—whether it’s your time, your health, or your relationships—has created a toxic cycle. Accountants are feeling the weight of this every day, and it’s taking a serious toll.

Continuing with this mindset doesn’t just hurt individual accountants; it hurts the profession as a whole. When we’re constantly stressed and overwhelmed, we can’t do our best work. 

We make more mistakes, we lose our passion for what we do, and eventually, we either burn out or leave the field altogether. If we want to create a sustainable future for accounting, we need to let go of these old, limiting beliefs and embrace a healthier, more balanced approach.

Changing the narrative in the accounting profession isn’t just a nice idea—it’s essential. The profession needs to evolve to survive. 

That means challenging the idea that stress and long hours are a badge of honor and starting to prioritize well-being, balance, and efficiency. It means valuing quality over quantity and recognizing that a successful accountant isn’t one who works the most hours but one who works effectively and maintains their health and happiness along the way.

If we can shift our collective mindset, we can create a future where accountants thrive, not just survive. The old ways have to die out if we want to move forward. 

It’s time for a new approach—one that focuses on sustainability, both personally and professionally, so that the next generation of accountants can enjoy long, fulfilling careers without sacrificing their well-being.

Embracing a more sustainable future starts with changing the way we think, but real transformation happens when we take action to rewrite the story of what it means to be an accountant. So, how do we begin to shift this narrative in a practical way?

The Choice to Change the Narrative

At the end of the day, accountants have a choice: continue following the old, unsustainable narrative or start questioning the beliefs that have been holding the profession back. It’s easy to keep doing things the way they’ve always been done—working long hours, accepting stress as a given, and thinking that burnout is just part of the deal. 

But here’s the thing: we don’t have to keep living that story. We have the power to change it.

Plus, the definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over and expecting different results.  We have to break free from these old patterns, challenge the beliefs that aren’t serving us, and start creating a new narrative—one that leads to healthier, more fulfilling careers in the accounting profession. 

The beliefs we hold about our work shape how we experience it. If we continue to believe that stress is unavoidable, then we’ll keep feeling overwhelmed. If we tell ourselves that working harder is the only path to success, then we’ll keep burning out. 

But if we start questioning those thoughts—if we begin to challenge the idea that being an accountant has to mean being stressed—everything can change.

You have a choice in how you experience your career. You can keep accepting the thoughts and beliefs that lead to stress and dissatisfaction, or you can decide to write a new narrative. It starts with awareness. 

Start noticing the thoughts you’re accepting without question. Ask yourself, “Is this really true?” and “Does believing this help me?” The simple act of questioning what you’ve always taken for granted can open the door to a completely different experience.

Imagine what your career could look like if you let go of the belief that stress and overwhelm are inevitable. What would happen if you redefined success to include balance and well-being, not just hours worked? How would your day-to-day experience shift if you allowed yourself to challenge the old ways and create a new, more sustainable approach to your work?

Now is the time to make that choice. The profession won’t change unless we start to change the way we think. 

By choosing to question the old narrative, we create the possibility of a future where accountants thrive—where the work is fulfilling, and the stress is manageable. It’s a future that’s within reach, but it starts with each of us deciding to think differently.

The choice is yours. Will you continue to follow the old story, or will you begin to write a new one?

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: How I Changed My Narrative

One of the biggest reasons why I wrote my book, “The Smarter Accountant” is because I had changed the narrative for myself and wanted accountants to learn what made that possible.

But the impetus for that change started after the first tax season that my second husband and I were married.  At the end of tax season he said to me, “What just happened?”  I said, “What do you mean?”  He said, “Tax season wasn’t what I expected.  You were always stressed and overwhelmed, you weren’t your normal self, you worked crazy hours, and you weren’t really present when you were home.”

I remember thinking, “Dude, you married a CPA.  What did you think it was going to be like?”  But, instead, I began to take to heart what he said.

I was working with a coach at the time and I told her what my husband had said and added, “Well, tax season is just stressful.”  She told me something that literally changed my career and my life.  She said, “You know that ‘Tax season is stressful’ is just a thought, not a fact.”

I remember thinking, “Well, clearly she has no idea what she’s talking about.”

She explained that it was a fact that I had tax deadlines and that there was more work to do during certain times of the year, but those things weren’t causing me stress.  What was causing me to feel stressed and overwhelmed was what I was thinking about those facts.

In other words, thoughts like “Tax season is stressful” or “I don’t know how I’m going to get all this done” were the cause.  And then she pointed out that our thoughts are 100% optional so if I chose more helpful and useful thoughts, I could reduce and even eliminate stress and overwhelm altogether.

Besides passing the CPA exam over 30 years ago, this was a pivotal point in my career and my life.  I began replacing my unhelpful thoughts and began practicing more helpful and useful thoughts like “Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful” and “I just need to focus on one thing at a time.”

I began feeling more focused and began getting more done in less time.  I had more energy at the end of the day and on the weekends.

The best part is that my husband started noticing without me telling him what I was doing differently.  When I explained what I had done differently that particular tax season he said, “Keep doing it.  It was a night and day difference from the previous year.” 

This is how I started to change my narrative in the accounting profession.  I began to challenge the thoughts and beliefs I had borrowed from other accountants and even publications like Accounting Today who had an article years ago titled, “Brace Yourself For Another Stressful Tax Season!”

I now recognize those unhelpful and unuseful beliefs and I choose wisely.  I get more done in less time than most accountants because I’ve become a Smarter Accountant.

Again, it’s why I wrote my book and why I distilled 10 years of knowledge into a 6-week Smarter Accountant Program.  To show accountants how to change their narrative so that they can have easier, more sustainable careers.

Let’s wrap up with a key takeaway and a simple question to help you apply what you’ve learned.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

As accountants, we have the power to rewrite the narrative of our profession. By questioning long-held beliefs and challenging assumptions like “stress is just part of the job,” we can create a more balanced, sustainable, and fulfilling career. 

The future of accounting doesn’t have to be defined by stress and burnout—we can choose a new path by thinking differently about our work.

This week ask yourself, “What is one thought or belief I’ve been holding onto about my work that I can start questioning today? How might changing that belief improve my experience in the accounting profession?

This question is crucial because the ripple effect of one accountant changing their narrative can be profound. When you shift your mindset and break free from the old, limiting beliefs, you not only transform your own experience but also set an example for those around you. 

When your colleagues see you thriving, getting your work done efficiently, and handling stress in a healthier way, it can make them stop and think about how they’re approaching things. It’s like a ripple effect—when one person starts questioning the idea that stress is just part of the job, it opens the door for others to do the same.

Honestly, it doesn’t take much. One person choosing to think differently can inspire real change and help reshape the whole accounting profession for the better. It all starts with just one small shift.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed changing the narrative in the accounting profession.  I hope that I’ve inspired you to change your narrative about the accounting profession because it just takes one person to make a difference.

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.

Have you ever started your day with a clear plan, ready to tackle everything on your list, and then—bam!—one small interruption throws you off course? Suddenly, it feels like every task is screaming, “Do me now!” Before you know it, you’re scrambling to figure out what to do first, and it’s like your to-do list has taken over your day.

Why does this happen? Why does everything suddenly feel so urgent, even when it’s not?

We all know we should focus on the important things, but those “urgent” tasks have a way of grabbing hold and not letting go. We’ve all been there—jumping on emails the second they hit our inbox, rushing to respond to a client request, or feeling the pull of a time-limited sale we just can’t ignore. It’s like urgency hijacks our day.

Here’s the thing: this isn’t happening because you’re disorganized or bad at time management. The truth is, our brains are hard-wired to respond to urgency—it’s almost impossible to resist. This response, called the “Mere Urgency Effect,” explains why we often get caught up in tasks that feel pressing but aren’t actually important.

Think about this: you’re shopping online, and you see, “Only 3 hours left to save 50%!” Even if you weren’t planning to buy anything, suddenly it feels urgent. That same pull shows up in your work life, too. 

You might have a big project that needs thoughtful attention, but as soon as an “urgent” email or request pops up, your brain jumps into action mode, leaving you constantly putting out fires instead of making real progress.

This cycle is exhausting. It keeps us busy, but not productive. And the tricky part? Those urgent tasks are often much less valuable than they seem in the moment.

So, how do we break free and take back control of our time? That’s what I want to cover today. We’ll dive into the Mere Urgency Effect, the brain science behind it, how it shows up in daily life, and, most importantly, how to manage it.

Let’s start with what the Mere Urgency Effect actually is and why it’s so hard to resist.

The Mere Urgency Effect Explained

You know that feeling when you sit down to work on something important, and just as you’re getting into it, your phone buzzes or an email pops up, and suddenly, you’re off track? It’s like whatever just came in feels so urgent, you have to handle it right away—even though, deep down, you know it’s not that important. 

That’s what’s known as the Mere Urgency Effect.  So, what is the Mere Urgency Effect? Basically, it’s our brain’s annoying habit of prioritizing things that feel urgent—even when they’re not really important. 

It’s like when you’re in the middle of a big project, and your phone alerts you to a “flash sale” that’s ending in an hour. You weren’t even thinking about shopping, but now you’re tempted to stop everything because, well, the deal is about to end.

Our brains are wired for this kind of reaction. It’s a leftover survival instinct from way back when we had to respond immediately to actual threats, like wild animals or dangerous weather. 

But nowadays, it’s more about reacting to every notification, email, or “limited-time offer” that comes our way. The problem is, we’re tricked into thinking everything that seems urgent needs our attention right now.

Let me tell you a funny story. I had set aside an entire morning to work on a big project. It was one of those high-impact tasks that needed my full focus. I was ready to dive in, and then my phone buzzed with a notification from Bath & Body Works—there was a “One-Day Only Sale” on candles. 

Now, I love their candles, so of course, I felt this little pull to check it out. I told myself, “It’s only today.”. Next thing you know, I spent 30 minutes buying candles I didn’t even need. 

And just as I was about to get back to work, my email pinged with a client question. It wasn’t urgent, but I thought, I’ll just answer this real quick. Long story short, that project barely got touched.

I got totally caught up in the Mere Urgency Effect. I let those small, “urgent” things take over, and the important stuff got pushed to the side. 

And let’s be honest, we’ve all been there—whether it’s checking emails the second they come in or tackling small tasks just to feel like we’re getting something done. It’s like we’re constantly busy, but we’re not making real progress on what truly matters.

The issue is that those little urgent tasks often give us a quick sense of accomplishment, which feels good in the moment. But in reality, we’re just putting out tiny fires, not building anything significant. So how do we stop this cycle?

The first step is understanding why we’re so drawn to these urgent distractions. Let’s dig into the brain science behind it and figure out why it feels so hard to resist.

The Brain Science Behind Why Everything Seems Urgent

Let’s break down why everything feels urgent, even when it’s not. I’ve mentioned this before on the podcast, but your lower, primitive brain, the part I like to call the “Toddler brain,” craves instant gratification and reacts in the moment. It’s not thinking about long-term goals—it just wants to feel good or fix something now.

When a notification pops up or a deadline looms, your Toddler brain kicks in, reacting instantly. Tackling a quick task gives you a small dopamine hit—the brain’s reward chemical—which feels great in the moment. 

This “quick win” satisfaction keeps you chasing after small, urgent tasks, even when they don’t move the needle on what truly matters.

Here’s the catch: this instinct made sense when we had to react quickly to survive, but today, it leads to jumping from task to task without focusing on what’s important. For example, you might drop a major project to respond to a non-urgent email, simply because it feels pressing in the moment.

Recognizing this pattern in your brain is the first step toward taking control. But how does this brain response actually play out in our everyday work lives? Let’s take a closer look.

How the Mere Urgency Effect Shows Up in Daily Life

Now that you understand how the brain’s hardwiring can pull you into urgent tasks, let’s talk about how this plays out day to day. It’s that feeling of running around all day, checking things off your list, only to end the day realizing you didn’t make any real progress. That’s the Mere Urgency Effect in action.

This effect tricks us into mistaking busyness for productivity. You might spend hours answering emails, thinking, “I’m getting so much done!” But when you look back, those emails could have waited, and the critical project requiring your focus remains untouched.

Our brains often confuse urgency with importance. A Slack message or email notification grabs your attention because it feels pressing, even if it’s not truly significant. This cycle of reacting to urgent-but-unimportant tasks can leave you stuck on a hamster wheel, constantly busy but not moving forward on what matters.

For accountants, this challenge is magnified by constant deadlines. Monthly closings, tax season, and client demands all feel urgent, making it hard to prioritize effectively. Imagine sitting down to prepare for a major client presentation only to get derailed by a less critical email or a quick team update. By the end of the day, the high-impact task hasn’t even started.

Breaking free from this cycle begins with recognizing the Mere Urgency Effect for what it is—a distraction from meaningful work. Once you’re aware of how it influences your choices, you can start to regain control. Let’s explore how to do that next.

What to Do About the Urgency Effect

Breaking free from the urgency trap starts with awareness. Think about the last time you sat down to work on something important, like preparing a client presentation or finalizing a month-end report. You were ready to dive in, but then a “quick” email popped up, or a colleague stopped by with a question. 

Before you knew it, half an hour had passed, and you hadn’t even started the task you planned to focus on. That’s the urgency effect at work—pulling your attention to what feels pressing instead of what truly matters.

The key to taking control is pausing. When you feel the pull of urgency, stop and ask yourself, “Is this really important, or does it just feel like I have to do it now?” This moment of pause gives you space to evaluate your priorities instead of reacting automatically. 

For example, when a client emails you with a non-urgent question while you’re reviewing a tax return with a tight deadline, pausing allows you to recognize that the return takes priority, and the email can wait until later.

Once you’ve paused, the next step is reframing your thoughts. Instead of thinking, “If I don’t answer this now, I’ll fall behind,” try something like, “This can wait while I focus on what’s most important.” 

Reframing helps you quiet that inner voice that tells you everything needs your attention immediately. For accountants, this can mean consciously choosing to let emails or less-critical client requests sit until you’ve completed a high-impact task.

Let’s look at another example. Imagine it’s close to the end of the month, and you’re balancing multiple responsibilities: preparing financial statements, responding to client questions, and managing last-minute team updates. Everything feels urgent. 

But if you pause and think it through, you might realize that while answering client questions feels pressing, completing the financial statements is the most important task because it affects your firm’s deadlines. By reframing your thoughts—“I can circle back to these questions after I finish the statements”—you give yourself permission to stay focused on the bigger priority.

This process of pausing and reframing becomes even more effective when you pair it with a clear plan. At the start of your day, take five minutes to outline your top priorities. Ask yourself, “What will make the biggest difference today?” Then, when something urgent-feeling pops up, you can remind yourself of the plan you already made.

For instance, if a team member messages you with a last-minute question while you’re working on a tax projection, you can respond with, “Let’s discuss this later—I’m wrapping up something critical right now.”

The goal isn’t to ignore everything that feels urgent but to consciously decide when and how to address it. Practicing this process takes time, but the more you pause, reframe, and stick to your plan, the easier it gets. 

You’ve already heard me talk about the Supervising Parent part of your brain—it’s all about letting that calm, rational side take charge instead of reacting to every distraction.

So, the next time you feel the pull of urgency, remember: pausing is powerful. It’s not about doing less but about doing what truly matters. 

With practice, you’ll notice a shift—you’ll feel more in control, less rushed, and far more productive. And that’s how you start breaking free from the urgency trap.

Practical Strategies to Manage Urgency

Let’s talk about some practical strategies to manage urgency. One of the best ways to manage it is to take a page out of an emergency room’s playbook. Think about it—ER doctors deal with urgency all day, but they don’t just jump into action for every case that comes through the door. They use triage to decide what needs immediate attention and what can wait. 

You can do the same with your tasks by asking, “What’s truly important here, and what can wait?” This small habit can save you from constantly reacting to every notification or request.

Once you’ve got that mindset, time blocking becomes a lifesaver. It’s like making appointments with yourself for the most important work. Set aside time specifically for high-impact tasks, and treat it like a meeting you wouldn’t cancel. 

The beauty of time blocking is that it helps you focus on what matters most while giving you permission to set aside distractions. Even when other things pop up that feel urgent, you can remind yourself, “This time is already spoken for.”

Prioritizing is just as crucial. At the start of your day—or better yet, the night before—ask yourself, “What will make the biggest difference in the long run?” 

Write down those priorities and commit to tackling them first. Let the smaller, less important tasks fall into place later. This way, you’re making intentional decisions about your time, rather than letting the day dictate your focus.

These strategies take practice, but they work. The more intentional you are with your time, the easier it gets to break free from that constant rush of urgency. 

You’ll feel more in control, less stressed, and far more productive. Remember, it’s not about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things. 

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Getting A Handle On Urgency

One of the biggest benefits of The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program is getting a better handle on The Mere Urgency Effect. As accountants, no one teaches us how to manage our minds so that we can better manage our time. That’s why I do what I do.

Let me tell you about a client who felt like she was constantly running on fumes. Every day, she dove into emails, client calls, and last-minute requests, but by the end of the day, she was exhausted and frustrated. Despite working nonstop, the most important projects were still untouched. She told me, “I’m busy all the time, but I’m not making real progress.”

When we started working together, she realized how much small, urgent-seeming tasks were hijacking her focus. Emails and quick client questions felt pressing, but most of them could wait. The game-changer for her was learning to pause and ask herself, “Do I need to handle this now, or can it wait while I focus on what’s truly important?”

We also implemented time blocking for her high-priority tasks. At first, it felt strange to let some things wait, but she quickly saw the difference. Those “urgent” tasks weren’t as critical as they seemed, and for the first time in years, she made real progress on her big projects.

After a few weeks, she told me, “I finally feel in control of my time.” She was calmer, more productive, and even more present with her family. The constant stress of urgency was gone, and she felt like she had her life back.

Her story is proof that you don’t have to stay stuck in the urgency trap. When you pause, focus on what matters, and let the small stuff wait, you can take back your time and energy. If she could do it, so can you.

I hope you can see that while everything may seem urgent, it doesn’t have to be.  

Let’s wrap up with a key takeaway and a simple question to help you apply what you’ve learned.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway is that the Mere Urgency Effect can easily trick you into spending your time on tasks that feel pressing but aren’t truly important. By becoming aware of this effect and learning to reframe your thoughts, you can break free from the constant cycle of urgency. This allows you to focus on what truly matters, leading to a more productive and less stressful day.

This week ask yourself, “Is this task truly important, or does it just feel urgent?”

This question is crucial because it helps you pause and evaluate your actions before diving into a task. By asking this, you’re training your brain to distinguish between urgency and importance, which is the first step toward managing your time more effectively. 

This simple question can be a game-changer in how you approach your day and make decisions about where to invest your energy.

I promise you, everything is NOT urgent, even though it seems that way.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed why everything seems urgent and what to do about it.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

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.

Let’s talk about something we all deal with—your inbox. Have you ever stopped to think about whether it’s helping or hurting your productivity?

Take a second to ask yourself: how many hours have you lost to email this week? If you’re like most accountants, the answer might surprise you.

The average professional spends about 28% of their workweek managing emails. That’s over 11 hours—basically an entire workday spent just on email!

We tend to think of email as something we quickly check between tasks or respond to when we have a free moment. But have you noticed how often a “quick check” spirals into way more time than you intended?

The truth is, email can easily take over your day if you’re not careful. And let’s be honest—it’s hard to stay on top of everything when unread messages keep piling up.

Have you ever come in on a Monday morning, opened your inbox, and immediately felt overwhelmed? Hundreds of unread emails staring back at you can make you feel behind before you even start.

Or maybe you’ve caught yourself thinking about emails even when you’re off the clock. That mental clutter can drain your energy, even when you’re not actively working.

Here’s the thing—email is supposed to make communication easier, but if it’s not managed well, it can do the opposite. It can pull you away from the work that really matters and leave you feeling scattered.

Think about it: how often do you stop what you’re doing to check your inbox? How many times have you reread the same email because you didn’t have time to deal with it the first time?

All those little interruptions add up. They break your focus, waste your time, and make it harder to get back on track.

Over time, an overflowing inbox doesn’t just waste hours—it creates stress and leaves you feeling like you’re always playing catch-up. That’s no way to work.

What if your inbox wasn’t such a constant source of frustration? Imagine opening it and seeing only the messages that actually matter, without all the clutter.

In today’s episode, we’ll dive into why your inbox feels so overwhelming and, more importantly, what you can do to fix it. It’s time to stop letting email run your day and start taking control.

Your inbox should be a tool to help you, not a time suck that drains your energy. Let’s make it work for you instead of against you.

The Brain Science Behind Inbox Overload

Let’s start by talking about why email feels like it’s taking over your day. You might not think of your inbox as a source of stress, but trust me, it totally is—and here’s why.

Your brain can’t automatically organize an inbox full of read and unread emails. It sees every unread email as something unfinished, which just piles on mental stress and makes it harder to focus.

Honestly, I often joke that email is an accountant’s “drug of choice.” Think about it—every time you hear that little ding or see a notification, your brain gets a quick hit of dopamine, the same feel-good chemical you get from eating dessert or getting a compliment.

It feels great in the moment, but that dopamine hit is what makes email so addictive. Before you know it, you’re constantly checking, craving that next “fix,” and feeling a little panicked if you can’t step away.

The problem is, every time you stop what you’re doing to check an email, it pulls you out of focus. And the more you do it, the harder it gets to concentrate on what really matters.

Here’s the thing—your brain can handle a lot, but it has limits. This is called decision fatigue, and it’s why things like making choices or staying focused get harder as the day goes on.

And email is like decision fatigue on steroids. Every time you check your inbox, your brain is flooded with questions: Should I reply now or later? Is this email even important? Should I save this or delete it?

Even those little decisions—like whether to open an email or ignore it—start to add up. With dozens, maybe even hundreds of emails coming in every day, your brain gets overwhelmed fast.

When your brain is in overdrive like this, your focus slips, and even simple tasks feel like climbing a mountain. That’s why you feel drained and less productive by the end of the day.

The truth is, an overflowing inbox doesn’t just eat up your time—it drains your energy and clarity too. It’s like trying to run a marathon while carrying a heavy backpack. You might make it, but it’s going to feel way harder than it should.

This is what email overload does to your brain. It weighs you down with mental clutter and makes it harder to focus on the things that actually matter.

Here’s the bottom line: It’s not just about freeing up your time—it’s about freeing up your mind too. If you want to be a smarter accountant, you’ve got to learn how to take care of your accountant brain.

Three Email Habits Getting In Your Way

Now that we’ve discussed how an overflowing inbox can overwhelm your brain, let’s dig into some specific habits that might be making things worse. These are common pitfalls that many of us fall into, often without even realizing the damage they’re causing to our productivity. And believe me, I’ve got the research that backs up just how serious these problems can be.

Habit 1: Lack of Scheduled Email Processing Time

One of the biggest productivity killers is the habit of reacting to every email as soon as it arrives. You’re focused on a task, and then ding—a new email notification pulls your attention away. Before you know it, you’re deep into responding to emails instead of working on the project you had planned.

This constant interruption is more harmful than you might think. Studies show that it takes an average of 23 minutes to fully regain focus after an interruption, a phenomenon known as “attention residue.”

This means that every time you check an email, even if it’s just for a moment, your brain struggles to refocus on what you were originally doing. Over the course of a day, these interruptions add up, leaving you feeling scattered and less productive.

Even worse, this habit can create a cycle of stress. The more you interrupt yourself to check emails, the more you feel the need to stay on top of them, and the less time you have to actually get meaningful work done. It’s a vicious circle that can leave you feeling like you’re always playing catch-up.

Habit 2: Subscription Overload

Another common issue is the habit of subscribing to too many newsletters, industry updates, or promotional emails. At first, it might seem like a good idea to stay informed and up-to-date. But before you know it, your inbox is overflowing with emails that aren’t directly related to your work.

The problem with this is that it creates unnecessary noise. One study showed that the average professional receives around 121 emails per day. 

With so many messages coming in, it’s easy for important emails from clients or colleagues to get lost in the shuffle. You might find yourself spending valuable time sifting through irrelevant content just to find the emails that really matter.

This overload doesn’t just waste time—it also contributes to decision fatigue. The more emails you have to process, the more your brain has to work to decide what’s important and what can be ignored. Over time, this can lead to mental exhaustion and reduced productivity.

Habit 3: Using the Inbox as a Catch-All

Finally, there’s the habit of using your inbox as a storage space for everything—tasks, reminders, documents, and more. It’s easy to fall into this trap because it feels convenient at the moment. 

For example, need to remember something? Just email it to yourself. Want to keep a document handy? Leave it in your inbox.

But this habit can create a digital mess that’s just as overwhelming as a physical one. Research shows that cluttered environments, whether physical or digital, can lead to reduced focus and increased stress. 

When your inbox is filled with non-email tasks and documents, it becomes harder to find what you need. You end up wasting time searching for information and feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of stuff sitting in your inbox.

It’s also important to understand that using your inbox as a catch-all means that your brain is constantly trying to process different types of information—reminders, documents, tasks—on top of regular emails. This adds to your cognitive load, making it harder to concentrate and get things done.

The bottom line is that even though we all have issues with one or more of these habits, they are making it harder for us to be productive and efficient accountants.  That’s why it’s important to recognize your unhelpful email habits and understand the toll they’re taking on your productivity and mental clarity.

How to Take Back Control of Your Inbox

Now that we’ve identified the habits that can make your inbox a source of stress and inefficiency, let’s talk about how you can start taking control. It’s all about making a few simple changes that can lead to big improvements in how you manage your emails—and ultimately, how you manage your day.

One of the most popular mini-training videos in The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program covers email management, but today I just want to share a few strategies with you:

Strategy 1: Implement Scheduled Email Times

One of the most effective ways to regain control of your inbox is to set up specific times to check and process emails. Instead of reacting to every email as soon as it comes in, you’ll handle them in batches. This approach helps you stay focused on your work without constantly being interrupted.

Here’s how you can do it:

Choose Your Times: Pick a few times during the day when you’ll check your email. Good options might be first thing in the morning, after lunch, and before you finish work for the day. These are natural breaks in your day when it makes sense to clear out your inbox.  The most important thing here is that you should be in charge of when to give attention to email; email shouldn’t be in charge of your focus and attention.

Stick to the Schedule: Once you’ve set your email times for no more than 15 to 30 minutes, it’s important to stick to them. This means resisting the urge to check your email outside of these times. It might be tough at first, especially if you’re used to checking your inbox constantly, but it’s worth it. By limiting when you check emails, you’ll reduce decision fatigue and free up mental space for more important tasks.  I’m telling you, this is a game-changer.

Turn Off Notifications: To help yourself stick to the schedule, turn off email notifications. This way, you’re not tempted to peek at your inbox every time a new message arrives. Instead, you can focus on your work and handle emails when it’s time.  Every time you hear or see an email notification, your brain gets a hit of dopamine—the feel-good hormone. To stay focused, it’s important to break this habit by turning off notifications.

Strategy 2: Declutter Your Subscriptions

Another key step in taking control of your inbox is decluttering all those subscriptions that you’ve signed up for over the years. While staying informed is important, too many newsletters and promotional emails can clutter your inbox and distract you from the messages that really matter.

Here’s how to clean things up:

Review Your Subscriptions: Take a look at the emails you receive regularly. Are there newsletters you never read or promotions you’re not interested in? If so, it’s time to unsubscribe. Most emails have an unsubscribe link at the bottom, and it only takes a few seconds to remove yourself from the list.

Use Unsubscribe Tools: If you have a lot of subscriptions, consider using an unsubscribe tool like Unroll.me or Clean Email. These tools can help you quickly identify and unsubscribe from emails you don’t need, making the process faster and easier.

Benefit from a Cleaner Inbox: Once you’ve decluttered your subscriptions, you’ll notice a big difference. Fewer emails mean less distraction for your brain, and you’ll be able to focus more easily on the important messages. Plus, a cleaner inbox is less overwhelming to your brain, which can improve your overall focus and productivity.

Strategy 3: Organize and Streamline Your Workflow

For this strategy it’s important to set up a system for organizing your emails and managing the information that doesn’t belong in your inbox. A well-organized inbox makes it easier to find what you need and helps you stay on top of tasks without feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s how to do it:

Create Folders or Tags: Set up folders or tags in your email client to categorize your emails. For example, you might have folders for clients, ongoing projects, or important documents. As emails come in, file them away in the appropriate folder, so your inbox stays clean and organized.  I use Outlook and have my email folders set up by client.  I sort my inbox by the “From” tab and swipe all the emails related to that client into their appropriate folder.  I also have a folder labeled “#TBD” for the most important things I need to focus on, this way nothing gets lost. 

Use Other Tools for Non-Email Tasks: If you’re currently using your inbox to store reminders, documents, or to-do lists, it’s time to find a better system. Apps like Trello, Asana, or even a simple notes app are better suited for managing these tasks. By keeping non-email tasks out of your inbox, you’ll reduce clutter and make it easier to stay organized.

Schedule Regular Clean-Ups: Set aside some time, like an hour on Fridays, to declutter your inbox and tidy up your folders. This helps prevent your inbox from becoming overwhelming again and keeps your email management system running smoothly. For example, at the end of the year I go into each client’s email folder, sort by date, and delete anything over 7 years old.

Strategy 4: Set Up an Email Autoresponder

The last powerful strategy to take control of your inbox is to set up an email autoresponder. This tool can automatically let people know when they can expect a response from you, allowing you to stick to your email schedule without feeling pressured to reply immediately.

Here’s why this is important: In our always-on culture, there’s often an expectation of immediate responses to emails. But this constant pressure can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. By using an autoresponder, you set clear boundaries for yourself and others, making it easier to focus on deep work without interruptions.

An autoresponder message might look something like this:

“Thank you for your email. To be as productive and efficient as possible, I check emails at (specific times during the day). I will get back to you within (specific amount of time like 24 hours) if a response is necessary. Thank you for your understanding.”

This message does a few important things:

It Sets Expectations: By letting people know when you’ll respond, you reduce the pressure to reply instantly. This gives you the space to focus on your work during non-email times.

It Closes The Loop: One of the biggest struggles that people deal with is not being sure that their email was received or will be addressed.  The autoresponder message closes the loop in the sender’s brain letting them know that it was received and will be addressed within a specific amount of time, allowing for less anxiety.

It Reinforces Your Boundaries: Establishing and communicating clear boundaries helps you maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevents email from taking over your day.  You need to learn how to take back control of your time and attention.

You might be thinking that setting up an autoresponder feels like a small step, but it can have a big impact on how you manage your time and energy. By letting others know that you’re committed to a more focused and efficient way of working, you’ll find it easier to stick to your new email habits and take back control of your inbox.

The bottom line is that by implementing these strategies, you’ll start to see a real difference in how you manage your emails. Your inbox will feel more manageable, and you’ll have more mental energy to devote to the tasks that really matter. 

The key is that taking control of your inbox is not just about clearing out emails—it’s about taking back control of your time and your focus.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Getting Control Of Her Inbox

As I said before, one of the on-demand mini-trainings I have in The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program deals with email management.  Every coaching client has told me it was one of the most helpful trainings they’ve ever learned.

For example, one of my coaching clients was feeling completely overwhelmed by her inbox. She used to dread opening her email every morning, knowing that she’d be greeted by hundreds of unread messages, most of which weren’t even important.

The constant ping of new emails throughout the day kept her on edge, and she found herself reacting to every notification, no matter how trivial. This constant interruption made it nearly impossible for her to focus on her work, and by the end of the day, she felt drained and unproductive.

During our coaching sessions, we started by identifying the habits that were causing her inbox stress. She realized she was checking her email dozens of times a day, subscribing to newsletters she never read, and using her inbox as a dumping ground for reminders and documents.

We worked together to create a plan: she set up specific times to check her email, started unsubscribing from anything that wasn’t essential, and organized her emails with folders and tags.

We also added an autoresponder to let people know when they could expect a reply, which took a huge weight off her shoulders.

A few weeks later, the difference was night and day. She no longer felt the constant pressure to respond immediately, and her inbox was cleaner and more organized.

She told me how freeing it was to know that she could focus on her tasks without being distracted by every new email. Her productivity improved, and she even found she had more energy at the end of the day.

The best part? She regained a sense of control over her work and her time, which reduced her stress and made her much happier in her job. It was a powerful transformation that all started with getting control of her inbox.

I hope you can see that although taking control of your inbox might seem like a small change, it can have a big impact on your productivity and peace of mind. By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only reduce stress but also free up valuable time to focus on what really matters.

Remember, your inbox is a tool—don’t let it control you. Take charge, and watch how much easier your workday becomes.

Let’s wrap up with a key takeaway and a simple question to help you apply what you’ve learned.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway is that your inbox should be a tool that helps you get things done, not something that stresses you out or takes over your day. When you manage your email with intention, you can actually free up time and energy for the things that matter most.

This week, try asking yourself, “Is my inbox helping me stay productive, or is it running the show?” It’s such a simple question, but it really makes you pause and think. 

Are you in control, or are you just reacting—checking notifications, getting stuck in emails that don’t even matter, or rereading the same ones because you’re not sure what to do with them?

The beauty of this question is that it helps you spot where your inbox might be getting in the way. Once you see it, you can start making changes, like setting specific times to check your email or unsubscribing from stuff you don’t need. 

The goal is to take charge of how you handle email so it works for you—not the other way around. You deserve to feel in control of your time, not overwhelmed by your inbox!

Well, that’s what I have for you today! Thank you so much for joining me as we talked about the email inbox makeover every accountant needs. My hope is that you’ve picked up at least one thing you can start using right away.

Remember, you worked hard to become an accountant—it’s time to make it easier to be one.

If you’re feeling stuck or struggling with any part of being an accountant, don’t hesitate to reach out. You can book a free session with me at www.thesmarteraccountant.com/calendar. Let’s tackle what’s holding you back and get you on the path to feeling more confident and in control.

Also, have you taken The Smarter Accountant Quiz yet? Head over to www.thesmarteraccountant.com and find out what’s been getting in the way of you having success without the struggle. It’s the perfect starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant.

And finally, if you’ve enjoyed this episode, I’d love for you to share it with other accountants. The more we spread the word, the closer we get to changing the narrative of what it means to thrive in this profession.

And don’t forget – the truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.

Have you ever felt like your identity is more tied to your work than anything else in your life? If so, you’re not alone. In a demanding field like accounting, it’s easy for the lines between who you are and what you do to blur.

For many accountants, work isn’t just a job—it’s a massive part of how we see ourselves. And while dedication to your profession is something to be proud of, there’s a fine line between commitment and something called work martyrdom.

Work martyrdom happens when your dedication crosses over into sacrificing your well-being, relationships, and happiness just to get the job done. It’s when working harder, longer, and with fewer boundaries feels like a badge of honor—a badge that’s tough to take off.

In the accounting world, with its tight deadlines and high stakes, it’s easy to fall into this trap. Work becomes not just what you do, but how you define yourself.

But here’s the truth: while work martyrdom might seem like it’s helping you get ahead, it’s often doing the opposite. The more you tie your identity to staying late, skipping vacations, and taking on more, the more you risk burnout, stress, and even resentment.

And it’s not just your career that suffers—work martyrdom spills over into every area of your life. It can feel like running a marathon without taking care of yourself. You might cross the finish line, but at what cost?

So, now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what work martyrdom is, let’s talk about why it’s such a problem—especially for accountants. What’s really going on when we fall into this trap, and why does it feel so hard to avoid?

Why Work Martyrdom Is a Problem For Accountants

At its core, it’s when working long hours, taking on extra tasks, and pushing yourself to the brink starts to feel like the “right” thing to do—like it’s the only way to be a good accountant.

Maybe you’ve found yourself staying late every night, checking emails during family dinners, or even feeling guilty for taking a vacation. Sound familiar? That’s the slippery slope into work martyrdom.

But here’s the thing—this isn’t just about working hard. It’s a mindset, and it’s one that’s deeply ingrained in our profession. 

In accounting, there’s this unspoken expectation that you should always be available, always be working, and always be pushing yourself to do more. It’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking, If I work harder, I’ll be more successful.

And honestly? A lot of this isn’t even your fault. Our society loves to glorify people who seem to have an endless capacity for hard work. 

Think about it: how often is the person who stays the latest or skips vacations seen as the most dedicated? It’s almost like overworking becomes a badge of honor.

In many accounting firms and companies, this gets rewarded. People who sacrifice their personal lives to work longer hours often get promotions, praise, or even more responsibility. 

And when you see that happening around you, it’s easy to think that’s what you have to do to succeed. But this is where it starts to go wrong.

Work martyrdom can seem like the answer, but it has some serious consequences—ones that can creep up on you before you even realize it. First and foremost, it takes a massive toll on your health. When you’re constantly pushing yourself without breaks, stress piles up, and so do physical problems. 

Things like insomnia, headaches, or even high blood pressure can become part of your day-to-day life. You might feel exhausted all the time but still keep going because you believe you have to.

And let’s talk about what happens to your relationships. When you’re always working, there’s just no time left for the people who matter most. Little by little, that can lead to feelings of isolation—not just for you but for your loved ones, too. 

They might start to feel like they’re not as important as your job. And honestly, that disconnect can hurt in ways that are hard to fix later.

But here’s what really hits home for me: work martyrdom doesn’t even make you more productive. In fact, it does the opposite. When you’re burnt out, your focus and creativity tank. 

You start making mistakes, missing details, and feeling like you’re running on empty. All those late nights and extra hours? They don’t actually help you move forward. If anything, they hold you back.

What’s worse is that it doesn’t lead to the kind of career growth you’re hoping for. You might still feel stuck, wondering why all this effort isn’t paying off. It’s frustrating, and it’s exhausting. I’ve been there, and I know how easy it is to think, Maybe I just need to try harder. But that’s not the answer.

The truth is, work martyrdom doesn’t lead to the success or fulfillment you want. Instead, it creates a vicious cycle: you work harder, burn out, and end up feeling even more stuck. And it doesn’t just hurt your career—it spills over into every other part of your life.

This is why recognizing it is so important. Once you can see it for what it is, you can start making changes. You can take back control and find a healthier, more balanced way to succeed—both in your career and in your life. You deserve that.

The Brain Science Behind Work Martyrdom

Since this is the podcast that blends brain science with accounting, let’s take a closer look at what’s really going on in your brain when work martyrdom takes over. It’s not just about working hard—it’s about how your brain is wired to make you feel like you have to overwork. And honestly, some of it comes from instincts that have been with us forever.

Your brain’s number one job is to keep you safe and secure, and one of the ways it does this is by equating work with survival. Think about it—back in the day, survival meant working hard to gather food, find shelter, and protect yourself from danger. If you weren’t putting in the effort, you weren’t safe.

Fast forward to today, and while we’re not out hunting for food anymore, that same survival instinct is still there. Your brain sees your job as essential for providing security—for you and your family. 

So when you feel like you’re overworking, it’s not just a habit; it’s your brain quietly telling you, “Work harder—this is how we stay safe.”

But it doesn’t stop there. Your brain also has a built-in reward system that plays a huge role in why you might keep overworking. Every time you check something off your to-do list—whether it’s finishing a project, answering emails, or staying late to meet a deadline—your brain releases dopamine. 

You might know it as the “feel-good” hormone. It gives you that little hit of satisfaction and makes you want more of it.

Here’s how it works: you finish a task, your brain gives you a burst of dopamine, and you think, “That felt good—I should keep going.” The more you work, the more dopamine you get, and before you know it, you’re in a cycle of chasing those little rewards. 

It feels like progress, but it’s actually exhausting you. It’s like running on a hamster wheel—your brain keeps you going because it’s hooked on that next dopamine hit, even though you’re not really getting anywhere.

And then there’s fear and insecurity, which can be a major driver of work martyrdom. If you’ve ever thought, “I’m not doing enough,” or “I’m not as good as everyone else,” you know exactly what I’m talking about. Those feelings can trigger your brain’s stress response, putting you into survival mode again.

When you’re in that mode, your brain pushes you to work harder, take on more, and prove yourself. It’s trying to protect you from failure or criticism, but in the process, it’s pushing you toward burnout. 

You might think, “If I just put in a few more hours, or take on that extra project, I’ll feel better about myself.” But here’s the problem: it never feels like enough. Instead, you’re just reinforcing the cycle—more work, more stress, and more exhaustion.

What’s tricky is that your brain doesn’t realize it’s working against you. It’s just doing what it’s wired to do—keep you safe, keep you motivated, and keep you pushing forward. But understanding these patterns is the first step to breaking free from them.

When you recognize that your brain is equating work with survival, chasing dopamine, and reacting to fear, you can start to interrupt those patterns. It’s not about blaming yourself or your brain—it’s about seeing what’s happening and choosing a different way forward.

The next step? Start paying attention to the signs of work martyrdom in your life. Once you can spot those patterns, you’ll be able to take back control before it spirals out of hand.

Signs of Work Martyrdom You Need to Pay Attention To

So how do you know if you’re slipping into work martyrdom? Sometimes it’s subtle—so subtle that it feels normal at first. But once you start noticing the patterns, it’s easier to recognize when work is taking over more than it should.

Let’s talk about a few common signs that might mean you’re on the path to becoming a work martyr.

One of the first red flags is feeling like you have to respond to emails immediately—no matter what time it is or what you’re doing. Maybe it’s late at night, you’re in the middle of a family dinner, or even on vacation, and you feel that itch to check your inbox and fire off a reply. 

Sound familiar? It’s as if not responding right away might cause the sky to fall or make people think you’re slacking.

I see this all the time with my coaching clients, and let me tell you—it’s exhausting. This habit might seem harmless, but it’s a clear sign that work is starting to run the show. You’re prioritizing your inbox over everything else, and that’s a key indicator of work martyrdom sneaking in.

Then there’s the fear of taking time off. Vacation days are there for a reason—they’re meant to help you recharge and maintain some balance. But if you find yourself hesitating to use them, or worse, letting them expire unused, that’s a problem.

Maybe you’re worried that taking time off will make you look less dedicated, or that everything at work will fall apart while you’re gone. This mindset is classic work martyr behavior. It’s like telling yourself that the office can’t survive without you, which only adds to your stress and makes stepping away feel impossible.

Another big sign? Struggling to delegate. If you’re constantly saying, “No one else can do it as well as I can,” you’re piling unnecessary stress onto your plate. 

Delegation isn’t just about lightening your load—it’s also about giving others the chance to grow. When you refuse to let go of tasks, you’re not protecting the quality of the work; you’re just making everything harder for yourself. And let’s be real—that’s not sustainable.

Now, let’s talk about something I know a lot of us do: constantly talking about how busy and stressed we are. If you find yourself saying, “I have so much on my plate,” or “I’m so overwhelmed,” more often than not, it might be your way of justifying those long hours and sacrifices. 

It’s like you’re trying to prove to yourself—and maybe others—that all this work is necessary. But this stress-talk isn’t helping. It’s actually a clear sign that work martyrdom is taking a toll on you.

I’ll share a quick story that I shared in my book “The Smarter Accountant”. One day, I was walking behind two accountants in my building. One said to the other, “Did you notice Joe’s car wasn’t in the parking lot last night?” The other replied, “Well, he must not be very good at what he does.”

That comment stopped me in my tracks. These two genuinely believed that being the last one in the office was a sign of being a good accountant. It’s the kind of mindset that feeds work martyrdom, and it’s so easy to fall into if you’re not careful.

Oh, and here’s one more sign to watch out for: resentment and isolation. When work martyrdom takes over, it’s common to start feeling frustrated with people who set boundaries. You might catch yourself judging others for leaving work on time, taking lunch breaks, or prioritizing their personal lives.

It can feel like you’re the only one truly committed, which creates a sense of isolation. Over time, this resentment builds up, leaving you disconnected from colleagues and more entrenched in the work martyr mindset.

Recognizing these signs is the first step to making a change. Once you can spot these patterns in yourself, you can start reclaiming your time and energy.

Now that we’ve uncovered what work martyrdom looks like, let’s talk about what you can do to stop it and create a more balanced, fulfilling life—both professionally and personally.

How to Stop Work Martyrdom

So, you’ve recognized some of the signs of work martyrdom in your life. Now what? The good news is that you don’t have to stay stuck in this cycle forever. 

You can break free and create a healthier, more balanced way of working. It just takes a little self-awareness and a willingness to make some changes.

The first step is to really take a good, honest look at your work habits. Ask yourself, Why am I working the way I am? 

Are you staying late at the office because the work truly requires it, or is it because you feel like you should? Are you checking emails late at night because it’s urgent, or because you’re worried about how it might look if you don’t respond right away?

Being honest about what’s driving your behavior is huge. Maybe it’s fear—fear of not being good enough, fear of falling behind, or fear of being judged. If you can identify those feelings, you can start to understand them instead of letting them control you.

One of the most important things you can do is allow yourself to feel negative emotions without using overwork as a way to escape them. I know that sounds uncomfortable—no one wants to sit with feelings like anxiety, self-doubt, or insecurity. 

But here’s the thing: those feelings are temporary. They don’t define you, and they definitely don’t need to dictate your actions.

When you let yourself feel those emotions instead of avoiding them by diving into more work, you start to take their power away. Over time, this makes it much easier to step back and say, I don’t have to do more just to feel better.

Next up is setting boundaries. And yes, I know this can feel awkward at first, especially if you’re used to being “always on.” But boundaries are essential for your well-being. 

Start by deciding on clear work hours and sticking to them. Maybe you say, “After 6 p.m., I’m done for the day—no more emails, no more projects.”

You can also set boundaries for how you handle work on weekends or during vacations. Remember, time off isn’t just a nice idea; it’s necessary. Taking breaks recharges you, and that makes you more effective when you’re back at work.

Another big piece of this puzzle is managing your mind. A lot of work martyrdom is driven by thoughts that aren’t really serving you, like “I need to work harder to prove my value,” or “If I don’t do it all, no one else will.” These beliefs feel so real, but they’re often just stories we’ve told ourselves.

What if you challenged those thoughts? How?  By looking for evidence that success doesn’t have to mean sacrificing everything. 

Think about people you know—or maybe even your own experiences—where balance and boundaries didn’t get in the way of success. Shifting your mindset can be powerful, and it helps you make choices that actually support a more fulfilling life.

And here’s something important to keep in mind: this is a process. You’re not going to flip a switch and suddenly have it all figured out. And that’s okay. The key is to keep moving forward, even if it’s just one small step at a time. Every little change you make adds up.

The more you practice self-awareness, allow yourself to feel your emotions, set boundaries, and challenge unhelpful beliefs, the closer you’ll get to a life that feels balanced and fulfilling—not just professionally, but personally, too.

The bottom line is that you don’t have to be a work martyr to be successful. In fact, letting go of that mindset will likely make you more successful. You’ll feel healthier, happier, and more productive, and your relationships will improve as well.

So, start today. Take that first step by reflecting on your work habits and asking yourself, What can I change to create a better balance in my life? Then commit to making those changes. You deserve a life that works for you, not one where work is all you have.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Letting Go Of Work Martyrdom

Before I share a coaching client’s story, let me just say that work martyrdom is one of the most common and sneakiest issues I help my clients with.  Like carbon monoxide poisoning, it’s undetectable and deadly unless you have a carbon monoxide detector.

That’s kind of what I consider myself – a detector of work martyrdom before it’s too late.

For example, I worked with a client who was a dedicated accountant, always working long hours and believing that staying late was the key to success. He was constantly at the office, often the first one in and the last one out. 

But despite all his hard work, he started feeling completely drained. His relationships were suffering, and he wasn’t as happy with his job as he thought he’d be.

When we first started working together, he told me he felt trapped. He couldn’t remember the last time he had dinner with his family without checking his phone, and he felt like he was failing—not just at work, but as a husband and father. 

The more he pushed himself at work, the further away he felt from the things and people that mattered most. He was exhausted, frustrated, and honestly, scared. He worried he might burn out completely but didn’t know how to stop.

When he finally set boundaries—like committing to family dinner without interruptions—it wasn’t just his work that improved. He said something I’ll never forget: ‘I didn’t realize how much life I was missing until I got some of it back.’ Seeing him rediscover joy in both his work and his personal life was a powerful reminder that success doesn’t mean sacrificing everything else.

The bottom line is that there’s no shame in admitting that you’re a work martyr, but there’s no reason to continue being one.  You deserve to take off the thorny martyr crown and have a balanced, happy life.

Let’s wrap up with a key takeaway and a simple question to help you apply what you’ve learned.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The key takeaway is that work martyrdom might feel like the path to success, but in reality, it leads to burnout, strained relationships, and decreased productivity. It’s a cycle that can quietly take over your life, leaving you exhausted and feeling like no matter how much you do, it’s never enough. The good news is that you don’t have to stay stuck here.

Recognizing the signs and making small, intentional changes, like setting boundaries and managing your emotions, can help you break free. Remember, it’s not about overhauling your life overnight—it’s about taking small, meaningful steps that add up over time. 

Whether it’s deciding to log off at a certain time each day or learning to sit with uncomfortable emotions instead of diving into more work, these changes will create space for a healthier, more balanced life.

This week, take a moment to reflect and ask yourself, “Am I sacrificing my well-being and happiness for work? And if I am, what’s one small step I can take today to start reclaiming balance in my life?” 

Maybe it’s as simple as stepping away from your email during dinner or finally using a vacation day you’ve been putting off. The important thing is to start—because you deserve a life where success doesn’t come at the expense of your health and happiness.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the issue with work martyrdom in the accounting profession.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

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.

I want to start this episode with sharing a story my mentor told us that really stuck. She’s one of the most successful businesswomen I know and she was the only woman in a multi-millionaire mastermind group.

So, when it was her turn to introduce herself, she said something that blew everyone away: she makes over 50 million dollars a year but only works three days a week. Naturally, the men in the room were speechless. You can imagine the curiosity—they all wanted to know her secret.

Her answer? It wasn’t about working harder or longer hours. She said, “I know the power of emotions and how important they are to running a successful business. Everything we do, or don’t do, is driven by how we feel.  If you’re not managing your emotions, you will not be as happy and successful as you could be.”

Now, don’t get too hung up on the whole 50-million-dollar thing—that’s not really the point. What’s important is how she’s managed to achieve so much by understanding her emotions and using them to her advantage. And honestly? That’s something anyone can do, no matter how much money you make or how many hours you work.

I wanted to share this with you because it highlights something we don’t talk about enough in accounting: emotions. We’re always told to be logical, stick to the numbers, and just get the job done. But have you ever stopped to think that ignoring your emotions might actually be holding you back?

I get it—talking about feelings might seem a little out of place in a profession where data and logic rule. But here’s the truth: whether you acknowledge them or not, you have emotions all day, every day, and those emotions are affecting you. 

For example, stress leads to procrastination, anxiety makes you double-check your work a thousand times, and those feelings don’t just disappear because we try to ignore them.

Here’s the thing – what if, instead of pushing those feelings aside, you learned to use them to your benefit? Your emotions are sending you signals, and when you tune in to them, they can actually help you be a better accountant, make smarter decisions, and feel less overwhelmed.

What if understanding your emotions could be the key to more happiness and success in your career?  I can tell you this – those men in that multi-millionaire mastermind became very interested in the secret behind the happiness and success of my mentor.

That’s why I want to talk about the thing most accountants ignore at a cost to themselves and explore what we can do to change that.

The Thing Most Accountants Ignore At A Cost To Themselves

Emotions are often pushed aside because, well, we’re taught that they don’t belong at work. A lot of accountants believe that feelings just get in the way and might even mess things up.

The unspoken rule is pretty straightforward: if you want to succeed, leave your emotions out of it. But here’s the thing—thinking like that can backfire more than you’d expect.

I totally get it. Accounting is all about being focused and objective. Your clients and your company rely on you for clear, unbiased information. But that laser focus on numbers and data has created this idea that emotions are a weakness. We end up learning to bury our feelings early on in our careers.

But here’s the real issue: ignoring your emotions doesn’t make them go away. They just get shoved aside and, over time, that can lead to even bigger problems.

One of the biggest dangers of ignoring your feelings is burnout. When you keep pushing down stress, frustration, or overwhelm, those emotions don’t disappear. They build up, and eventually, they’ll impact your health, your relationships, and your job satisfaction.

As we all know too well, burnout is a serious risk in accounting. There’s so much pressure to meet deadlines, juggle complex tasks, and keep clients happy. It’s a lot. 

And if you’re not acknowledging your emotions along the way, you can start to feel drained, unmotivated, and disconnected from your work. That’s when you begin to lose that sense of satisfaction, and it holds you back from reaching your full potential.

The truth? It’s tough to excel when you’re barely hanging on.

But that’s not the only problem. Ignoring your emotions can mess with your decision-making, too. We tend to think that by suppressing our feelings, we’re being more logical. 

But emotions actually play a big role in how we process information and make choices. When you don’t recognize what you’re feeling, those hidden emotions are still steering your decisions—whether you realize it or not.

For example, if you’re anxious about a project but refuse to admit it, that anxiety might make you second-guess yourself or avoid risks you should be taking. On the other hand, if you’re feeling overconfident but don’t acknowledge it, you might overlook important details or take on too much.

Either way, your emotions are still driving your decisions, even if you think you’re being completely logical.

The bottom line is, ignoring your feelings doesn’t help. It doesn’t make you a better accountant, and it can actually do the opposite—leading to burnout, poor decisions, and a general sense of dissatisfaction.

By paying attention to your emotions and understanding them, you can use them to make your work better, instead of letting them drag you down.

Since this is the podcast that blends brain science with accounting, I’m now going to talk about the brain science behind happy, successful accountants..

The Brain Science Behind Happy, Successful Accountants

Your brain isn’t just about logic and reasoning. It’s also responsible for how you feel about everything happening around you. Once you understand how your brain plays into your emotions, you’ll see why feelings are so powerful—and how you can actually use them to your advantage.

Let’s break it down simply: your brain handles emotions like a super-efficient computer. Every single thought you have sends a signal to your brain, and your brain responds with a feeling.

For example, imagine you’ve got an upcoming meeting with a challenging client. Your brain might view that as a threat, which could trigger feelings of anxiety or stress. On the flip side, when you think about finishing a big project, your brain might interpret it as a win, giving you a sense of pride or satisfaction.

What’s happening here is your brain is taking your thoughts—whether you are aware of them or not—and turning them into emotions. So, the truth is that your feelings aren’t random. They’re directly tied to what’s going on in your mind.

And here’s the important part: every emotion you feel is linked to a thought, even if it’s a split-second one.

Now, let’s dig a little deeper. Your brain is incredibly adaptable. One of its superpowers is its ability to form what we call “neural pathways.” Think of these like well-worn trails in your brain. The more you think a certain way or react to something, the stronger that trail becomes. Eventually, it becomes a go-to response for your brain.

For example, if you’re always stressed about deadlines, your brain has probably built a strong connection between deadlines and stress. So, the next time a deadline is looming, your brain automatically triggers those stress-related emotions because it’s used to going down that path.

This is why the same emotions tend to pop up in familiar situations, even when things aren’t exactly the same.

The good news is, once you understand how these pathways work, you can start to change those emotional habits. By becoming more aware of your thoughts and deliberately choosing different ones, you can start creating new pathways that lead to more positive, productive emotions.

One more thing to keep in mind—your brain loves efficiency. It’s wired to respond quickly based on past experiences. This can be helpful, but it can also mean your brain reacts before you’ve had a chance to fully process what’s going on. It’s like your brain is on autopilot, trying to protect you from stress or uncertainty.

But here’s the better news: by understanding this, you can interrupt those automatic responses and start taking control over how you feel and react.

The bottom line is, your brain plays a huge role in how you experience and manage your emotions. It processes your thoughts, builds patterns based on your experiences, and works to keep things running smoothly. But once you’re aware of how your brain operates, you can use that knowledge to get a handle on your emotions and make them work for you.

So here’s a quick tip you can try this week: every morning, take a few minutes to check in with yourself. Ask yourself, “How am I feeling? Am I stressed about something coming up? Nervous about a meeting?” 

Once you identify the emotion, ask yourself what thought is driving it. This simple practice will help you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings—and how to manage them better.

Now that we’ve unpacked how your brain handles emotions, let’s talk about how you can use this understanding to improve your work and your overall career in accounting.

Using The Secret Weapon 

My mission with this episode is to help every accountant rethink how they see emotions. Instead of treating them like obstacles, start thinking of them as tools. Emotions aren’t just random feelings; they’re signals, like little messengers giving you important information.

Once you get that, emotions can actually become a powerful asset—a secret weapon in your accounting career.

So again, at their core, emotions are physical reactions to your thoughts. When you think something, your brain sends signals through your body, creating the feelings we label as emotions.

For example, thinking “I’m not prepared for this” might make you feel nervous or tense, while thinking “I’ve got this” makes you feel calm and confident. These emotions are your body’s way of reacting to your thoughts, giving you real-time feedback on what’s happening in your head.

Why does this matter? Because once you realize emotions are tied directly to your thoughts, you get way more control over how you feel.

This understanding lets you use your emotions as a guide. Instead of seeing them as random or disruptive, you can start viewing them as valuable cues about how you’re handling whatever’s going on around you.

The real power comes from being aware of your emotions. When you’re tuned in to how you feel, you can make more thoughtful choices instead of just reacting automatically.

For example, let’s say you’re feeling uneasy before a big presentation. That’s a perfect opportunity to ask yourself why. What thoughts are behind that unease?

Maybe you’re worried about how the presentation will go or afraid you’ll forget something important. Once you identify those thoughts, you can address them—maybe by rehearsing more or reminding yourself of past presentations that went well.

In this way, your emotions become a tool to help you prepare and do your best.

Here are some simple steps to make the most of your emotions:

Step 1: Pinpoint the Emotion. Start by figuring out exactly what you’re feeling. Are you stressed, excited, frustrated? Naming the emotion brings clarity and helps you understand what’s really going on.

Step 2: Trace the Source. Once you’ve identified the emotion, ask yourself, “What thought is causing this feeling?” It might take some digging, but by linking your emotions to your thoughts, you can get a better understanding of what’s driving them.

Step 3: Leverage the Insight. Now that you know the thought behind the emotion, think about how you might shift your thinking. This isn’t about forcing yourself to be positive all the time, but choosing thoughts that support your goals. For instance, changing “This project is too much” to “I can break this down into smaller steps” can totally change how you approach it.

By looking at emotions as valuable feedback, you can use them to make better decisions and be more effective at work. Emotions aren’t just something you manage—they’re something you use.

When you understand and work with your emotions, you’re not just reacting to everything around you. You’re actually shaping how you experience life and how you respond to it.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Becoming a Happy, Successful Accountant

Let me share a story from one of my coaching clients. She was a Tax Manager who seemed successful on the outside but was struggling big time behind the scenes. She was constantly stressed and overwhelmed, especially with all the tight deadlines and pressure that come with her role.

Her way of dealing with it? She tried to push those feelings aside. She figured that as an accountant, emotions just weren’t part of the job. But that mindset led her straight to burnout. She was exhausted, unmotivated, and feeling totally stuck in her career.

When we started working together, we focused on changing how she viewed her emotions. Instead of treating them like obstacles, she began to see them as important signals that could actually guide her actions.

We worked on identifying what she was feeling and the thoughts behind those emotions. She realized that she was telling herself things like “I’m not capable” or “What if I fail?”—and those thoughts were driving her stress. By acknowledging those thoughts, she could start challenging them and replacing them with more helpful ones.

This simple shift made a huge difference. Instead of letting stress take over, she began to see it as a sign to manage her thoughts. Once she realized that paying attention to her emotions was the key to feeling happier and more successful, she could spot those unhelpful thoughts her brain was throwing at her and shift them.

As she started feeling better, she noticed her actions became more effective. Her stress levels dropped, and her confidence went up. She started taking on bigger responsibilities and making real progress in her career.

It wasn’t long before she broke free from the burnout cycle and regained her motivation. By learning to use her emotions as a tool, she was able to make better decisions and find more fulfillment in her work.

So, if you think emotions don’t belong in accounting, think again. If you want a career that’s not only sustainable but also makes you happy and successful, you need to pay attention to how you’re feeling.

This is the secret weapon no one else is talking about—but I am.

At the end of the day, emotions aren’t a weakness. They’re a huge part of what makes you both human and effective at your job. You already have the skills to be a great accountant, but mastering your emotional awareness is what’s going to take you to the next level.

Before we wrap up, let me leave you with this: Don’t underestimate the power of your emotions. They’re not something to push aside—they’re your body’s way of telling you what matters.

Start paying attention to how you feel, understand the thoughts behind those feelings, and use that awareness to guide your actions. When your emotions are aligned with your goals, you’ll start achieving more with less effort.

Remember, success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart. And that starts with understanding yourself.

Now, let’s wrap this up with a key takeaway and a quick action step to help you start applying this today.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Here’s the big takeaway: understanding and embracing your emotions can be a total game-changer for your success in accounting. Instead of ignoring or pushing your feelings aside (which, let’s be honest, we’ve all done), start recognizing them as valuable pieces of information. 

Your emotions are telling you something important—something that can guide your decisions, improve your performance, and ultimately help you feel happier and more fulfilled in your career.

Think of it this way: your emotions are like your internal GPS. If you pay attention to them, they can help you navigate challenging situations, figure out where you might need to adjust, and keep you on track toward your goals. But if you ignore them, you might end up feeling stuck, stressed, or like you’re constantly spinning your wheels.

So here’s your action step for this week: take a few minutes each day to check in with yourself. Ask, “How I am feeling right now and what thoughts are driving those feelings?” It could be stress, excitement, frustration—whatever comes up. Once you identify the emotions, dig a little deeper and figure out the thoughts behind them.

Maybe you’re stressed because you’re thinking, “I’ll never get this done in time.” Or maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed because the thought, “I can’t handle all of this,” is running through your mind. Whatever it is, just notice it.

Then ask yourself, “How do I want to feel and what thoughts can I think on purpose to feel that way?”

By doing this simple check-in, you’ll start to see how much power your emotions have to help you, rather than hold you back. You’ll begin making decisions that feel more aligned with who you are and what you want to achieve, and you’ll notice that your work starts feeling a little easier, a little more manageable.

The more you practice this, the more you’ll see how understanding your emotions isn’t just something “nice” to do—it’s essential for working smarter, not harder. So give it a try this week and see how tuning into your emotions can shift the way you work, and also make you a happier accountant.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the hidden secret behind happy, successful accountants.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

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.

Have you ever taken one of those personality tests, like DISC, Myers-Briggs, or maybe the Enneagram? If you’re anything like me, you were probably a little curious about what it would say. Maybe you thought, “I’ll finally understand why I do the things I do.” 

Have you ever found yourself nodding along with the results, thinking, “That’s exactly me”? It felt good, didn’t it? It’s like being handed the manual for your life.

As accountants, many of us are drawn to understanding things in a clear, logical way. We want to know why we act the way we do, why we make the decisions we make, and how we can work smarter, not harder. Personality tests seem like a quick and easy way to get those answers. 

They give you a label—maybe you’re a “Type A,” an “Introvert,” or a “Cautious Thinker.” Whatever the label is, it feels like you finally have a way to explain yourself. It’s almost like having a road map that shows you where to go and what to avoid.

But have you ever wondered if these labels are really helping you, or are they just boxing you in?  At first, they might make you feel seen, like someone finally “gets” you. But after a while, you might start to wonder, “Is this all there is to me?” 

Maybe you’ve found yourself saying things like, “I’m just not good at that because I’m an introvert,” or “I could never do that because I’m too much of a perfectionist.” It’s easy to get boxed in by these labels, even though they’re meant to help you understand yourself better.

We all want to know more about ourselves, especially when we’re trying to make improvements in our lives and careers. Knowing how you think and operate can be helpful when you’re trying to get ahead, set boundaries, or even just manage your workload. 

But the question is, are these labels giving you clarity, or are they holding you back?

What if I told you that those personality test results, those labels, aren’t the final word on who you are? What if your personality isn’t as set in stone as you think? 

The truth is, you’re not stuck being one way just because a test said so. Your personality can evolve, grow, and change over time, just like the skills you’ve developed throughout your career.

The idea that we can change who we are may seem surprising, especially when we’ve been conditioned to believe that our personalities are fixed traits. But think about it—haven’t you already grown and changed over the years? 

Who you were when you first started your accounting career is probably different from who you are now. And that’s a good thing! Change isn’t something to fear; it’s something to embrace.

So, what if we started thinking about our personalities the same way? What if we looked at them as something we could shape, just like any other part of our lives? What if you could move beyond those labels and redefine who you are, both personally and professionally?

Today I want to show you that you’re the one in control of who you are and who you can become. The labels can guide you, but they don’t have to confine you. You have the power to grow, change, and redefine yourself whenever you choose.

Your Personality is Not Set in Stone

I want to share something with you that might change the way you see yourself: your personality isn’t something you’re born with and stuck with forever. It’s actually not set in stone at all.

In the book “Your Personality Isn’t Permanent” by Benjamin Hardy, PhD, he explains how personality tests can make it feel like you don’t have a choice about who you are. But that’s not true. 

Your personality isn’t fixed—it’s something you have control over. We humans have this amazing ability to be flexible and adapt to whatever life throws at us.

Dr. Hardy explains that our personalities are shaped by our experiences, choices, and the environments we’re in. So, who you are today isn’t necessarily who you’re going to be tomorrow, or even a few years from now.

Think about it: when you were a kid, you probably acted one way at school and a different way at home. Maybe you were super outgoing with your friends but more reserved around new people. As you grew up, those behaviors likely shifted based on what you experienced. 

For example, maybe you became more confident after leading a project in college or more cautious after going through something tough at work. These changes didn’t just happen randomly—they were influenced by what you went through and how you reacted.

Dr. Hardy’s research challenges the old idea that personality is something you’re born with and can’t change. Instead, he suggests that personality is more like clay—you can mold it and reshape it over time.

This is actually really freeing because it means you’re not stuck with the labels you or others have given you. If you’ve always seen yourself as “the shy one” or “the perfectionist,” that doesn’t mean you have to stay that way forever. You have the power to evolve.

But here’s the tricky part: once you take a personality test and get labeled as a certain type, it’s easy to feel like you’re stuck in that mold. For example, if you’re told you’re an “Introvert,” you might avoid social situations because you believe they’ll exhaust you, even if a part of you is curious about trying new things. 

This is what’s called a “fixed mindset.” It’s the belief that your personality is set in stone and can’t be changed.

The problem with this mindset is that it can seriously limit your personal growth. If you believe you’re only capable of what your personality label suggests, you might avoid new challenges or experiences that could help you grow. 

For example, if a DISC test labels you as “Cautious,” you might hesitate to take on a leadership role, even if deep down you want to.

Here’s the good news: research shows that personality is a lot more flexible than we’ve been led to believe. A long-term study that followed people’s personalities over 63 years found that their personalities changed way more than the researchers expected.

This means that we’re all capable of change. Your personality is not set in stone—it’s a part of you that can grow and evolve. 

So, if there’s something about yourself you want to change—whether that’s becoming more outgoing, more confident, or more resilient—you absolutely can. It might take time and effort, but it’s possible.

The bottom line is this: instead of thinking about your personality as something permanent, start thinking of it as something you can shape and refine over time. Embrace the idea that you’re a work in progress, and that there’s always room for growth.

The Role of Your Brain in Shaping Personality

Now that we’ve talked about how your personality isn’t set in stone, let’s dive into what makes that possible—your brain. What’s amazing is that your brain is always changing and adapting based on your thoughts, experiences, and actions. This ability is called neuroplasticity, which is just a fancy way of saying that your brain can rewire itself.

Let me give you a real-life example. Imagine your brain like a city full of roads. Every time you have a thought or take an action, it’s like driving down a particular road. The more you use that road, the smoother and more familiar it becomes, kind of like a well-worn highway you’ve traveled a thousand times.

But here’s the cool part—if you decide to take a new route, your brain can actually start building a brand-new road. Over time, this new path can become just as strong as the old one, maybe even stronger.

For example, think about how you might have labeled yourself as “shy” or “cautious” in meetings. Every time you held back from sharing your thoughts, you were reinforcing that “quiet road” in your brain. But what if you decided you wanted to be more vocal and confident? 

By choosing to speak up, even if it feels uncomfortable at first, you start building a new road in your brain—the “confidence road.” The more you practice speaking up, the easier it becomes, and before you know it, that new behavior starts to feel natural.

I had a client who used to avoid speaking in team meetings because she thought of herself as too reserved. But once she decided to challenge that label, she started small—she made a goal to share just one thought in each meeting. It felt awkward at first, but over time, she became more comfortable. Eventually, her new “confidence road” was so strong that speaking up became second nature to her. That’s neuroplasticity at work.

So, when you think about reshaping your personality, remember—you have the power to build new roads in your brain that lead to the version of yourself you want to become.

Becoming the Architect of Your Personality

Let’s clear up a common misconception: that your “authentic self” is some fixed thing—like once you figure it out, that’s it, and you’re stuck with it forever. We hear things like, “Just be your authentic self,” but what does that actually mean, especially when you’re working in a fast-paced career like accounting?

Here’s the thing—if you’ve ever felt stuck trying to figure out who your “authentic self” is, you’re definitely not alone. I felt the same way earlier in my career. I used to think that because I was good at staying behind the scenes, that’s where I belonged. It felt like my role was set in stone. But the truth is, our authentic selves are not set in stone. They’re something we can shape, redefine, and evolve over time.

Think about who you were five or ten years ago. Do you feel like the same person? Probably not! Your experiences, whether it’s the challenges you faced during tax season or the wins you celebrated with passing the CPA exam, all helped shape the person you are today.

So, instead of feeling like there’s one version of yourself that’s locked in, what if you thought of yourself as a work in progress? Your authentic self isn’t something you “discover”—it’s something you create. You have the power to shape who you are, personally and professionally, by deciding which traits, habits, and behaviors you want to bring into your life

Overcoming Obstacles to Change

Let’s get real—changing anything about yourself, whether it’s how you approach your work or how you see yourself, is rarely smooth sailing. Even when you’re excited about becoming a better version of yourself, obstacles are going to pop up along the way.

But here’s the thing—those roadblocks don’t have to stop you. Once you recognize the challenges you’re facing, you can come up with ways to work through them and keep growing.

One of the biggest obstacles? Fear of change. It’s perfectly natural to feel nervous when you step into something unfamiliar. Our brains love comfort and predictability, even if those things are keeping us stuck in habits or routines that don’t serve us. 

You might wonder, “What if I fail?” or “What will other people think?” And that fear can make you hesitate or stay in your comfort zone.

Another challenge is self-doubt—that little voice in your head that makes you question whether you’re really capable of making a change. You might think, “Who am I to try this?” or “What if I’m not good enough?” 

Self-doubt is tricky because it can easily convince you to stay where you are, even if you know you need to grow.

And then there’s the issue of feeling overwhelmed. When you think about all the steps involved in making a big change, it can feel like too much. 

Whether you’re working on setting boundaries at work, taking on a leadership role, or making time for your personal life, it’s easy to get caught up in the sheer size of the task. You might not know where to start, and that can lead to procrastination or avoidance.

Don’t worry if this sounds tricky—I’ll walk you through it. The first step is to normalize them. It’s completely okay to feel scared, doubtful, or overwhelmed. Everyone goes through it. 

But instead of letting those feelings stop you, use them as signals to slow down and figure out what’s really going on. Fear and doubt often pop up when you’re about to do something important.

Next, focus on what’s within your control. You can’t control everything, but you can control your response. Break the change down into small, doable steps. 

If you’re overwhelmed, try focusing on just one thing you can do today. If self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself that everyone struggles at times. What matters is how you move through it.

It’s also important to give yourself permission to grow at your own pace. Change doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a gradual process that comes with setbacks. Be kind to yourself, celebrate the small wins, and remind yourself that progress is what counts, not perfection.

Lastly, find a support system. Whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or a coach like me, having people in your corner who believe in your growth can make all the difference. They can give you the encouragement you need when you’re feeling stuck and remind you of your potential when you’re doubting yourself.

The bottom line is that obstacles will show up, but they don’t have to derail your progress. Recognize them for what they are—challenges that you can work through. By breaking things down, staying patient with yourself, and surrounding yourself with support, you can keep pushing forward.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Showing That Your Personality Isn’t Permanent

Let me tell you about a client of mine—her story ties right into what we’ve been talking about in this episode.

When she first came to me, she felt completely stuck in her career. She’s a CPA, and while she was great at her job, she had always seen herself as the “quiet, behind-the-scenes” type. From a young age, she’d been labeled an introvert, and she genuinely believed that meant she wasn’t cut out for leadership roles.

In her mind, her personality didn’t align with being a leader, and that belief kept her from going after promotions or new opportunities at work.

When we started working together, we dove into that label. We talked about how personality isn’t fixed and how she actually had the power to redefine herself if she wanted to. We explored the concept of neuroplasticity—basically, the idea that by changing her thoughts and behaviors, she could reshape her personality over time.

At first, she was hesitant. It’s not easy to question a label you’ve lived with for so long—it felt like an unchangeable truth to her. But there was also this spark of excitement about what might be possible if she let herself grow.

So, we started small. She set manageable goals, like speaking up more in meetings. Even if it was just a quick comment or sharing an idea, those little moments added up. We worked on shifting her mindset, building her confidence by helping her practice visualizing herself as a confident, assertive leader.

And then something amazing happened. Fast forward a few months, and she wasn’t the same person who had felt stuck. She began taking on more visible projects at work. She even volunteered to lead a team for a new initiative.

Her colleagues started seeing her in a new light—not just as the quiet, reliable worker but as someone who could step up, take charge, and inspire others. The transformation wasn’t about her changing who she was at her core; it was about breaking free from those old labels and allowing herself to grow beyond them.

Today, she’s thriving in her leadership role. She’s confident in her ability to lead her team and tackle challenges that once seemed way out of reach.

I’m sharing this story because I want you to see that when you question those limiting labels and embrace the idea that your personality can change, real growth happens—both personally and professionally. She didn’t stop being herself; she just allowed herself to grow beyond the labels that had been holding her back.

So, if you’ve ever felt like your personality is limiting you, I hope this shows you that it doesn’t have to. Your personality isn’t permanent—unless you want it to be.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

The big takeaway here is this: your personality isn’t something set in stone. It’s a dynamic, ever-evolving part of who you are. When you understand that your personality can shift and grow based on the choices you make, the thoughts you think, and the actions you take, you realize that you have the power to shape who you are and who you want to become.

Sure, personality tests and labels can give you some insight into yourself, but they don’t have to define or limit you. You’re in control of your growth and transformation—you get to decide what direction you want to take.

Here’s something to think about this week: ask yourself, “What is one label or belief about myself that I’ve accepted as unchangeable, and how could I start challenging it today to open up new possibilities for my growth?”

Why is this question important? Because it helps you pinpoint those hidden beliefs or labels that may be holding you back without you even realizing it. 

Maybe you’ve always thought of yourself as “not a leader” or “bad at public speaking,” and that belief has stopped you from pursuing new opportunities. By questioning that label, you’re opening up the possibility that it’s not a permanent part of who you are—it’s just a story you’ve been telling yourself. 

Once you challenge that belief, you can start taking small steps to move beyond it and create new opportunities for growth.

Remember, the first step toward change is awareness, and this question helps you become aware of the labels that might be limiting you. From there, you can start breaking free and creating the version of yourself you truly want to be.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed why your personality isn’t permanent.  I hope you’ve learned something that you can begin to apply in your career or in your personal life.

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.