Category: Podcast

Before I get started let me just mention to make sure you listen until the end because I have started sharing some key takeaways for each episode and some action steps you can take.  As I’ve created with the one-of-a-kind Smarter Accountant Podcast Guide, I want to help you apply what you’re learning in each of these episodes.

Today is all about helping you to have an easier accounting career.  As I say all the time, you worked hard to become an accountant; it’s time to make it easier for you to be one.

For a second, think about everything that went into you becoming an accountant – all the education, the training, and the hard work.  Now think about this – did you ever think being an accountant was going to be as challenging as it is?

I’ll be the first to admit that I had come to a point in my career a number of years ago when I thought to myself, “Are you sure you want to be doing this for the long-term?”  Just like many of you, I was getting burned out by a lot of the aspects of being an accountant and I was at a crossroads.

Do I try to figure out something else to do with my career or do I try to figure out how to have an easier accounting career?  Thankfully, I’m pretty stubborn and don’t like to give up easily, so I decided to focus on how to have an easier accounting career instead of giving up what I had worked so hard for.

Fast forward to today, and I’ve never felt better about my career and the steps I’ve taken to make it much more sustainable.  That’s also the reason why I wrote my book, “The Smarter Accountant,” because I wanted to teach accountants what I had learned that has made it possible for me to have an easier accounting career and a happier life.

What I’ve noticed over the years and with coaching many accountants is that there are 5 mistakes most accountants make that are creating a lot of the issues they’re having with their accounting careers.  These 5 mistakes are incredibly common which can make it challenging to realize that they’re actually mistakes.

Think about it – if you’re surrounded by other accountants making the same mistakes, then you probably think it’s pretty normal.  Plus, you probably don’t even see what you’re doing as a mistake by virtue of the fact that if everyone else is dealing with the same issues as you, then it must not be fixable.

I’m here to tell you that having an easier accounting career is simpler than you might think, especially when you deal with the 5 mistakes I’m going to share with you now.

Mistake #1: Assuming that Stress and Overwhelm are Par for the Course

Let’s be honest, in the world of accounting, it’s far too easy to fall into the trap of thinking stress and overwhelm are just part of the job description. After all, when we’re surrounded by other accountants who are equally stressed and overwhelmed, it’s easy to think it’s just how things are. 

But have you stopped to consider what this assumption is costing you? Take a moment to see if any of these statements hit close to home:

• “The pressure to meet deadlines is overwhelming, and I worry that one mistake could have serious consequences.”
• “I used to love my job, but now it feels like a never-ending cycle of stress and anxiety.”
• “I find it difficult to focus and concentrate, which makes simple tasks take much longer than they should.”
• “I’m struggling to balance work and personal life, and it’s taking a toll on my relationships and my health.”

As I often remind my coaching clients, trying to tackle accounting work when you’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed is like attempting to drive a car with the parking brake on while trying to drive 100 mph—it doesn’t work.

Instead of accepting stress and overwhelm as just part of the job description, it’s important to recognize the significant impact these feelings have on your ability to have an easier and more sustainable career in accounting by considering the following:

• How frequently do you find yourself overwhelmed?
• Do you carry those feelings home with you?
• How does stress affect your performance and productivity?
• Do you notice yourself procrastinating more when stressed?
• How do you feel at the end of each workday or week?
• Are stress and overwhelm pushing you closer to burnout?

It’s time to start paying attention to how stress and overwhelm are affecting your work and personal life. Remember, assuming they’re just part of the job makes it harder for you to take action to address them.

You also need to address the high costs of stress and overwhelm.  Since we’re accountants and we love numbers, let’s talk numbers for a moment. 

Research shows that stress and overwhelm can lead to a significant decrease in productivity, with stressed individuals being up to 50% less efficient at work. Also, chronic stress has been linked to a higher risk of developing health issues such as heart disease, obesity, and depression.

In my book, “The Smarter Accountant,” I shared the story of Jim, a CPA and partner in a firm who had a wife and 5 young children.  One day Jim died of a heart attack in front of his family, due to chronic stress at the age of 38.

The reason this story is personal to me is because he was my husband’s father.  I am married to the 8 year old boy whose mother was widowed with 5 young children.  This is why I’m so passionate about helping accountants have easier careers.

The truth is that the toll of stress and overwhelm can’t be underestimated. 

The bottom line is that stress and overwhelm don’t need to be the norm in your accounting career. Recognizing this and taking steps to manage them effectively can lead to a happier, more productive, and sustainable career.

Mistake #2: Working Off A To-Do List and Not Having Effective Time Management 

Here’s what I know for sure – effective time management for accountants is a critical skill that, in my experience, is not taught correctly.  We’re typically given work to do, possibly a budgeted amount of time to do it in, but not taught how to actually manage our time.

That’s why it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying solely on a never-ending to-do list to manage our workload. With countless tasks and deadlines looming, it might seem like the most practical solution. 

But have you ever stopped to consider what this mistake is truly costing you? Take a moment to see if any of these statements resonate with you:

• “I’m constantly busy but my to-do list never seems to get shorter.”
• “No matter how hard I work, I always seem to be behind schedule and playing catch-up.”
• “Working longer hours than I want has become normal as I try to keep up with my workload.”
• “I never seem to have enough time.”

It’s also important to understand that to-do lists are incredibly overwhelming to your brain.  And do you know what doesn’t help you manage your time effectively?  An overwhelmed brain!

If you’re not sure how this issue is affecting you, consider the following:

• How frequently do you feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of your workload?
• Do you feel organized and focused throughout the day?
• Are you able to maintain a healthy work-life balance with your demanding schedule?
• Do you often find yourself sacrificing personal time to meet work deadlines?
• Do you know how to effectively calendar your time so that you guarantee you follow through?

The truth is that relying on a to-do list without effective time management strategies can make it much harder to have an easier accounting career.  

It’s also important to know that research shows that one of the biggest issues with having enough time is poor time management.  In fact, it’s shown that not having effective time management costs you up to 40% of your time spent on unproductive things.  That’s a lot of wasted time.

Research has also shown that ineffective time management is one of the contributing factors in stress and burnout. As we struggle to keep pace with our workload and meet deadlines, our physical and mental well-being suffer as well as our job satisfaction.

The bottom line is that relying solely on a to-do list without learning effective time management strategies leads to ineffective time management.  Recognizing this mistake can help you take steps towards an easier accounting career.

Mistake # 3: Prioritizing The Wrong Things

As accountants, we often have a lot to get done, and not enough time to get it done.  That’s where prioritizing is indispensable. 

The problem is that we find ourselves focusing on the wrong things, or have no idea what to do next to get our work done efficiently.

See if you relate to any of these:

• Getting caught up in minor tasks or distracted by email while important projects remain untouched.
• Constantly reacting to urgent but ultimately unimportant things instead of focusing on high-impact tasks.
• Juggling multiple tasks without considering a clear plan of action.

The reason you’ll want to avoid this mistake is that prioritizing the wrong things can lead to wasted time, missed deadlines, and increased stress.

If you’re not sure if issues with prioritizing is affecting you, consider the following:

• Are you spending time on tasks that truly matter, or are you getting bogged down in minutiae?
• Do you have a clear understanding of your goals and priorities, both short-term and long-term?
• Are you able to distinguish between tasks that are high versus low impact?
• Do you struggle to say “no”?
• Do you regularly reassess your priorities to ensure you’re focusing on what matters most?

The truth is that prioritizing the wrong things not only affects your productivity and efficiency but also prevents you from getting more done in less time.  When you consistently prioritize low-impact tasks over high-impact ones, you waste valuable time.

In my experience, one of the biggest culprits of wasted time is not being able to handle interruptions effectively.  By pulling our focus and attention away from the task at hand, we’re giving in to interruptions and prioritizing the wrong things, causing even more wasted time.

In fact, a study by the University of California, Irvine found that it takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to regain focus after being interrupted.

The truth is, we all have a limited amount of time in a day, and if we’re not careful about how we prioritize our tasks, we risk wasting valuable time.

The bottom line is that prioritizing the wrong things isn’t just about being busy; it’s about being effective. By learning how to prioritize effectively, you can make the most of your time, achieve your goals, and thrive in your accounting career.

Mistake #4: Ignoring a Lack of Confidence or Imposter Syndrome

As accountants, even though we’re smart people doing smart things, we are often surrounded by other smart people, which can sometimes lead to feelings of self-doubt or imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome, the belief that we’ll be exposed as a fraud, despite evidence of our competence, is more common than you may have realized for accountants.

The problem is that many of us ignore these feelings, hoping they will go away on their own, or worse, we try to push through them without addressing the root cause.

If you’re not sure if you have a problem with self-doubt or imposter syndrome, see if you can relate to any of these:

• You feel like you don’t belong or that you’re not good enough, despite evidence of your qualifications and experience.
• You downplay your achievements or attribute your success to luck or external factors.
• You’re constantly seeking validation or approval from others to affirm your worth.
• You avoid opportunities for growth or advancement because you fear failure or rejection.
• You compare yourself to others and often feel inadequate.

The reason why you’ll want to avoid this mistake is because ignoring a lack of confidence or imposter syndrome can have serious consequences for your career and well-being. 

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with a lack of confidence or imposter syndrome, consider this:

• Do you often doubt your abilities or feel like a fraud, even when others praise your work?
• Are you hesitant to speak up or share your ideas in meetings because you fear being judged or criticized?
• Do you find yourself avoiding new challenges or opportunities for fear of failure or rejection?
• Do you struggle to accept compliments or acknowledge your achievements?
• Have you ever turned down a promotion or leadership role because you didn’t feel qualified or deserving?

The truth is that ignoring a lack of confidence or imposter syndrome not only holds you back professionally but also takes a toll on your mental and emotional well-being. 

Research shows that imposter syndrome can also lead to increased stress, anxiety, and burnout, as you constantly strive to prove yourself and fear being exposed as a fraud. This not only affects your mental and emotional well-being but also impacts your performance and productivity in the long run.

The bottom line is that although issues with self-confidence are normal, the good news is that you don’t have to let these feelings hold you back. By acknowledging and addressing them, you can take control of your confidence and have an easier accounting career.

Mistake #5: Not Setting and Sticking to Boundaries

As accountants, we often find ourselves juggling many responsibilities and deadlines, making it important to establish clear boundaries to protect our time and well-being. However, many of us struggle with setting and sticking to boundaries, often leading to burnout and resentment.

The problem is that without boundaries, we risk overextending ourselves, sacrificing our personal time, and ultimately, affecting our health and happiness.

To determine whether you’re making this mistake or not, see if you can relate to any of these:

• Feeling overwhelmed by the constant demands of your job and struggling to find time for yourself or your loved ones.
• Saying “yes” to every request or project, even when it means sacrificing your own needs or priorities.
• Feeling guilty or anxious when you try to set boundaries or say “no” to others.
• Ignoring warning signs of burnout, such as exhaustion, irritability, or physical symptoms, because you feel obligated to keep working.
• Allowing work to “bleed into” your personal time, whether it’s answering emails after hours or working on weekends.

The reason why you’ll want to avoid this mistake is because neglecting to set and stick to boundaries can have serious consequences for your well-being and effectiveness as an accountant. In fact, research shows that individuals who set and enforce boundaries at work experience greater job satisfaction, lower levels of stress, and higher overall well-being.

To see how this issue might be affecting you, consider this:

• Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed or stressed by the demands of your job?
• Do you struggle to find time for self-care, relaxation, or hobbies outside of work?
• Are you able to prioritize your own needs and well-being, even when it means saying “no” to others?
• Do you have clear boundaries around your working hours, personal time, and availability to clients or colleagues?
• Have you ever felt resentful or burned out because you didn’t enforce your boundaries?

The truth is that by establishing clear boundaries and sticking to them consistently, you can protect your time, energy, and mental health, ultimately leading to an easier and more fulfilling career.

In my experience, one of the biggest costs of neglecting to set and stick to boundaries is burnout. When you constantly say “yes” to every request or project, without considering your own limits or needs, you risk depleting your energy.

Research shows that burnout can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even physical and mental health issues, such as chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. This not only affects your performance as an accountant but also your overall well-being and quality of life.

The bottom line is that although it’s not always easy to set and stick to boundaries, the good news is that you have the power to change this pattern. By prioritizing your own needs, setting clear boundaries, and communicating them effectively with others, you can create a healthier and more sustainable approach to work and life.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Avoiding The 5 Mistakes

Now let me share some examples of how avoiding these 5 mistakes can make a huge difference in your accounting career.

By far, the biggest change that has made it possible for me to have an easier accounting career is dealing with the mistake of assuming that stress and overwhelm were par for the course in being an accountant and learning the secret behind eliminating stress and overwhelm.  

Once I learned that stress and overwhelm are feelings that are only ever caused by our thoughts, not by the amount of work we have, the time of year, or any other factor we typically blame, I have been able to have stress-free tax seasons.  Yes, you heard me correctly – stress-free tax seasons!  

The best part is that I now get more done in less time because stress and overwhelm were making me much less productive and efficient.

For the second mistake – working off a to-do list and not having effective time management – I have coached and taught many accountants how to effectively manage their time.  It’s one of my favorite topics to teach because no one is teaching accountants the most effective way to manage their time.

By addressing this mistake, clients have been amazed at how much more work they get done in less time and how much time they’re able to get back.  They now have time for the things and the people they love.

For the third mistake – prioritizing the wrong things – I have a mini-training in The Smarter Accountant Time Management Program that teaches how to effectively prioritize.  Again, this is a topic that no one teaches us properly because no one is blending brain science and accounting the way I do.

The truth is that your brain is wired to believe that everything is urgent.  That’s why this mistake is so easy to make.

Once clients have gotten a better understanding of how to effectively prioritize, they’re amazed at how much easier it is to do what they do.

For the fourth mistake – ignoring a lack of confidence or imposter syndrome – this is one of the most requested topics that I work on with my coaching clients.  They’re often embarrassed to admit that they struggle with self-confidence, but once they do, they’re amazed at how much better they feel about themselves.

It’s so fun to see clients go after and achieve goals that they never thought possible, all because they were willing to stop making the mistake of ignoring a lack of confidence or the fact that they were struggling with imposter syndrome.

And for the fifth and final mistake – not setting and sticking to boundaries – this has also had a huge impact for myself and my coaching clients.  Being able to learn how to effectively set and stick to boundaries has made it possible for us to have the balance that most accountants are looking for.

We’re able to say “no” without feeling guilty and have designed accounting careers that are sustainable in the long run.

What I most want you to know from this episode is that even if you’re making any of these 5 mistakes, you’re not alone.  There are many, many accountants who are making the same mistakes.

But thankfully, you can have an easier accounting career once you address them.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Remember, the path to an easier accounting career starts with recognizing and addressing common mistakes. 

Ask yourself, “”Which of the five common mistakes do I most often make, and what specific steps can I take to avoid it and make my accounting career easier?”

Avoid assuming that stress and overwhelm are just part of the job—manage them actively. 

Don’t rely solely on a to-do list; master effective time management. Prioritize what truly matters, rather than getting bogged down by minor tasks. 

Confront any lack of confidence or imposter syndrome instead of ignoring it. Lastly, set and stick to boundaries to protect your time and well-being. 

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more balanced, productive, and fulfilling accounting career.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed the 5 mistakes to avoid if you want an easier accounting career.  I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

If you are making any of these mistakes or 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.

I’ll share some of the quick tips that will make it easier for you to get a jump start on addressing these mistakes.

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.

Before I get started let me just mention to make sure you listen until the end because I have started sharing some key takeaways for each episode and some action steps you can take.  As I’ve created with the one-of-a-kind Smarter Accountant Podcast Guide, I want to help you apply what you’re learning in each of these episodes.

If you haven’t downloaded The Smarter Accountant Podcast Guide yet, you can go to https://thesmarteraccountant.com/podcast-guide/  

So today, I want to dive into a topic that many of my coaching clients have been struggling with lately: owning their financial value and worth. Whether they’re employees, managers, or firm owners, they all seem to wrestle with this.

The thing is, they’re pros at valuing assets and businesses for their clients, but when it comes to valuing their own skills and contributions, things get a bit fuzzy. So, let me ask you: How do you see your financial value? 

Do you ever doubt if you truly deserve the recognition and compensation you’re seeking? Do you find it tough to ask for a raise or increase your client fees?

As financial professionals, we’re crucial in shaping the financial health of individuals and businesses. But here’s the issue – even though we’re valuable to others, many of us struggle to recognize our own financial value. 

The truth is, it’s not just about our credentials or where we work; it’s about how our brains interpret these factors.

In other words, while our accountant brains are great at finances, they’re not so great at valuing ourselves. And this matters because not acknowledging our worth can hold us back and slow our career growth. 

So today, I want to explore how to understand your true worth, how your brain sees it, and how to own your financial value and worth.

The Brain’s Influence on Financial Value

As accountants, we’re all smart, but just like everyone else, we’re affected by what society thinks about money and how it values us. The thing is, what we learn about work and money when we’re young affects how we see our own financial worth later on in life. 

For example, if you grew up in a family or a culture that says you should be humble, it might be hard for you to recognize your successes and see how much your work is worth.  If you were raised by a blue-collar family, you might struggle with making more money than other people in your family.  

You might even downplay your worth in order to be accepted by others or not feel greedy.  It’s important to understand that your brain has a tribe mentality which means it will do anything to be accepted by the tribe, even if that means not making more money.

It’s also important to realize that your own experiences growing up have a big impact on how you think about money. If you didn’t have much money when you were young, or if you saw people being really careful with money, it could make you feel like there’s not enough to go around, and affect how you see your own value.

On the flip side, a positive financial upbringing may create a sense of confidence in owning your worth.  Either way, reflecting on your early experiences can provide valuable insights into your current financial self-valuation.

It’s also important to point out that imposter syndrome is incredibly common for accountants and will affect whether we own our financial value and worth.  Because we’re surrounded day in and day out with other smart people, this can often cause our brain’s to compare and despair.

Imposter syndrome happens when your brain offers you thoughts that doubt your achievements, making you feel like you don’t deserve your success. I coach many accountants on the topic of imposter syndrome, and if it’s not addressed, it can get in the way of believing that your financial expertise is more valuable than you might believe.

Overcoming impostor syndrome involves recognizing and challenging these self-doubts and actively acknowledging accomplishments.

When working with coaching clients on this issue I’ve had them put on the top of a piece of paper “Why my clients/employer are lucky to have me” and list all the reasons why.  I’m telling you, they are amazed at how much they’re able to come up with, or others are, when they ask them for their opinions.  

Another issue to be aware of is the brain’s natural tendency to compare you to others.  Your brain believes it’s keeping you safe by doing this but it can become a significant roadblock in recognizing your financial value. 

In the competitive world of accounting, where benchmarks and industry standards are all around us, constant comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy. For example, one of my coaching clients would get discouraged every time he saw someone’s accomplishments on Linkedin.

Thankfully, we worked together to deal with the comparison bias in his accountant brain and shift his focus inward.  He was able to see others accomplishments as examples of what’s possible for him, appreciate his own progress, and set goals that we worked toward him achieving.

The last issue when it comes to our brain’s influence on our financial value and worth is the fear of failure.  It’s important to understand that a fear of failure is a cognitive bias that can impact how we perceive our financial value. 

The thing is, we’re taught to be scared of mistakes or things going wrong, which stops us from trying things that could help us make more money. To get past this fear, we need to see mistakes as chances to learn, take some smart risks, and know that setbacks are just part of getting better at what we do.

In other words, by acknowledging that occasional missteps are part of the journey, we can create a healthier mindset toward risk and reward.

Hopefully, you can now see why knowing how your accountant brain works and the biases it has is really important for realizing your financial value. When you understand your accountant brain better, you’ll feel more in control and confident in your accounting job and how much you’re worth professionally.

The Consequences of Undervaluing Yourself Financially

The issue with undervaluing yourself financially is that it can have profound implications on your career and business. For example, if you consistently undervalue your skills and expertise, you’re more likely to accept lower compensation or lower rates than industry standards. 

Over time, this undervaluation not only affects personal income but may also limit access to higher-profile projects and job opportunities. Employers and clients often associate value with the price paid for services, and consistently positioning yourself below market value may inadvertently communicate a lack of confidence in your abilities.

The truth is that not owning your financial value and worth is seen as a sign of weakness.  Clients and employers may be less likely to trust someone who does not assert their worth.

Whether you realize it or not, undervaluing yourself financially also takes a toll on your emotional well-being. Constantly underpricing your skills can lead to a sense of dissatisfaction and frustration. 

The emotional stress that comes from undervaluation can show up in various forms, such as burnout, anxiety, or a general sense of unfulfillment. This, in turn, may impact your overall job satisfaction and affect your ability to perform at your best.

In the context of professional growth, consistently positioning yourself below your true worth may result in missed opportunities for promotions, leadership roles, or specialized training. The hard truth is that employers may be less inclined to invest in the advancement of someone who doesn’t fully recognize and advocate for their own value.

Additionally, when it comes to negotiations, a lack of self-valuation can lead to agreeing to less than you deserve.  Whether discussing salary increases, client fees, or contract terms, a failure to assert your worth may result in settling for less than what you genuinely deserve. 

This, in turn, reinforces a cycle of undervaluation and can have long-term financial implications.

Here’s the thing – understanding the far-reaching consequences of undervaluing yourself is the first step toward breaking free from this cycle. Once you see how it affects your job chances, how you feel, and how well you negotiate, you can take proactive steps to own how valuable you truly are.

Strategies for Owning Your Financial Value

The first step in owning your financial value involves identifying and challenging limiting beliefs that may have been with you for a while.  For example, if you were taught that discussing money is taboo or that you shouldn’t brag about your accomplishments, you’re going to need to reframe these beliefs.

You need to get clear about your current beliefs about money and value so that you can create a more empowered mindset. By recognizing and challenging any limiting beliefs, you can begin to own your financial value.

For example, one of my clients was taught that talking about money is impolite and bragging about achievements is wrong so she avoided discussing her salary and downplayed her successes. Once we worked together she started openly discussing her compensation and proudly sharing her achievements, feeling more confident in owning her financial value.

The second strategy is practicing gratitude by shifting your focus from your perceived shortcomings to your accomplishments. Take time to reflect on milestones, successful projects, or even personal financial goals achieved. 

As accountants, we often dismiss the things we’re good at because we’re surrounded by other people who are also good at what they do.  But by acknowledging and expressing gratitude for your accomplishments, you reinforce your sense of worth and competence, no matter what anyone else has done or is doing.

For example, one of my clients was an experienced financial analyst who struggled with owning her financial value and worth. Instead of getting fixated on challenges during a tough quarter, we worked on practicing gratitude for all the cost-saving measures she had already implemented.

This shift in mindset not only improved her confidence but also strengthened her sense of worth, creating a healthier connection with her achievements.  She had been so used to moving on to the next project, that she wasn’t taking time to appreciate everything she had done for the current project.

The third strategy for owning your financial value is to set clear and attainable financial goals. Whether it’s a short-term goal like securing a particular client or long-term goals like retiring at a specific age with a specific amount in retirement, having a roadmap provides direction. 

For example, one of my clients was an ambitious accountant but wasn’t taking proactive steps to achieve his financial goal of retiring early. Once we worked together on his lack of self-confidence, he set short-term goals like securing a high-profile client and long-term goals such as building a substantial retirement fund. 

By having a clear roadmap, he began charging much more for his services. Not only did his clientele improve, but so did his ability to achieve his retirement goals.  

The fourth strategy is to consider mentorship or coaching.  The truth is that you are not meant to have an accounting career alone and getting help is not a sign of weakness. 

The thing is that engaging with a mentor or seeking guidance from a professional coach like me provides valuable insights into specific barriers holding you back and what to do about them.

For example, one of my clients was a partner in a small firm and told me he wished he had come to me sooner because he had been struggling with raising his prices.  He admitted that he had some people-pleasing tendencies that were getting in the way of him building his business to the level he wanted.

Once we worked together, he was able to own his financial value and worth, increase his prices, let go of clients who pushed back, and make room for many more clients wanting his valuable expertise.  He made more money the following year than he had his entire time in business.

If you have been struggling to ask for more compensation in your job, raise your prices in your firm, or achieve your financial goals, just know that there are so many ways you can overcome any hurdles.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Overcoming Brain-Related Challenges

As I’ve shared before in other episodes, this podcast is the place where brain science meets accounting.  In order to deal with issues involving your financial value and worth, you have to get clear on your brain’s role and how to overcome these brain-related challenges.

Let me share how various clients have handled each brain-related challenge in order to improve professionally and personally.

The first challenge is insecurity.  One of my clients had several years of experience in public accounting but was struggling with persistent feelings of insecurity about her financial value even though she consistently delivered high-quality work.

She struggled to speak up in meetings or reviews, often not giving herself credit for what she did well. This made her less confident and stopped her from moving up in her career.

She realized she had a lot of limiting beliefs around money that were holding her back.

But after becoming a Smarter Accountant, she learned to see how valuable she really was. She started talking about what she’d achieved proudly and thinking more positively about herself. 

She began joining in more in meetings, showing off her financial skills without holding back. Feeling more sure of herself, she not only got a raise she deserved but also took on bigger jobs.

Another client was really struggling with feeling like a fraud. Even though he did great work for his clients and got good feedback, he thought it was all just luck.

This made it hard for him to show how good he was to new clients and made him often doubt himself. He wanted to grow his small business, but feeling like a fraud always got in the way.

After becoming a Smarter Accountant, he started to see how much he’d actually achieved. He learned to see that feeling like a fraud didn’t make sense.

So, he started to think more about what he’d done well and how lucky clients would be to work with him. Because of this change in thinking, he was able to get more clients than ever before and was able to charge more.

Now, when a potential client pushes back on his fees, he stands strong and explains how and why they would be lucky to be working with him.

Hopefully these clients can be examples of what’s possible when you learn how to manage your brain.  Whether you’re dealing with insecurity, stress, limiting beliefs, fear of rejection, lack of motivation, or imposter syndrome, owning your financial value and worth is so much easier when you learn how to get your brain onboard. 

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Bottom line: your financial value and worth are not just about your credentials or your job title—it’s about how you perceive and assert your own value. By understanding your brain’s influence, challenging limiting beliefs, and setting clear goals, you can confidently own your financial worth. 

This week, ask yourself, “What specific accomplishments and skills can I highlight to confidently communicate my financial value and worth?”

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Seek mentorship, practice gratitude, and embrace your achievements. Trust in your skills and contributions, and don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve. 

You are more valuable than you’re probably giving yourself credit for.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed how to own your financial value and worth.  Just know this – if you struggle in this area, you are definitely not alone.

Just because you’re smart doesn’t mean your brain offers you supportive thoughts.  In fact, most of the time, it’s doing the opposite.  

That’s why you need to learn a simple way to manage your brain so that you can quickly own your financial worth and value.  They say time is money, but if your brain is not on board, you’re leaving a lot of money on the table.  

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.  And don’t forget about The Smarter Accountant Podcast Guide.  It will help you apply what you learned from the previous episodes.

Also, please keep sending positive thoughts my way as I recover from my surgery and find out what my next steps are.  I believe it takes a village to support someone in healing and I’m honored to have you as part of my village.

And as I end each week, the truth is that you’re already smart, but this podcast will show you how to be smarter.

Before I get started let me just mention to make sure you listen until the end because I’m going to start sharing some key takeaways from each episode and some action steps you can take.  Last week I shared that I’ve created a one-of-a-kind Smarter Accountant Podcast Guide that you can get a copy of at https://thesmarteraccountant.com/podcast-guide/

My mission is to help you apply what you’re learning in each of these episodes because I tell accountants all the time – knowledge isn’t power; applied knowledge is power.

Okay so today I want to talk about something that we’re all probably familiar with – the last minute request.  I think this is important for us as accountants, because we’re often stuck in those “deer caught in the headlights” moments where we’re not sure what to do or what to say.

For example, let’s say it’s the end of the workday, and you’re just about to wrap up, when suddenly, out of nowhere, an urgent email pings into your inbox. Your heart sinks as you realize it’s another last-minute request from a client or colleague, demanding an immediate review of something.  

Sound familiar? Whether you’re in public or private, chances are you’ve experienced this scenario more times than you can count. 

It’s a common dilemma for us, especially when deadlines are tight, expectations are high, and the pressure to produce can sometimes feel overwhelming.

But here’s the thing: while last-minute requests may be an inevitable part of the job, they don’t have to throw you off course or send you into a tailspin of stress and anxiety. With the right strategies and mindset, you can learn to navigate these situations with confidence, professionalism, and yes, even a sense of calm.

If you struggle with handling last minute requests, you’re definitely not alone.  For example, one of my coaching clients dealt with his fair share of last-minute requests.

Whether it was a client who forgot to mention a crucial detail for their tax prep or a sudden audit that required his immediate attention, it seemed like he could never have a nice, predictable day at work and struggled with how to handle last minute requests in a way that he didn’t feel like he was becoming a doormat.

The question is, how do you stay calm, cool, and collected in the face of last-minute requests?  And what warrants your attention or not?

From setting boundaries and managing client expectations to developing effective communication strategies and mastering the art of time management, I’m going to cover it all in this week’s episode.  

Understanding Your Brain’s Role in Navigating Last-Minute Requests

As I say all the time, this podcast is the place where brain science meets accounting, so I want to start by explaining your brain’s role in handling those pesky last-minute requests that seem to pop up out of nowhere. 

For example, you’re focused, you’ve got everything under control, ticking tasks off your to-do list, when suddenly, bam! An urgent email lands in your inbox, and your brain goes into overdrive.

So, what’s really going on up there when this happens? Well, your brain has a built-in alarm system and it’s responsible for keeping you safe from threats—real or perceived. When a last-minute request comes in, your lower, primitive brain, the part I refer to as the Toddler, kicks into high gear, triggering a rush of adrenaline and cortisol that revs up your fight-or-flight response.

In other words, your body goes into emergency mode, and your brain starts shouting, “Danger, danger!” This can leave you feeling jittery, stressed out, and not exactly in the best frame of mind to make sound decisions.

But here’s the thing: while this primal response might have helped our ancestors outrun hungry predators, it’s not exactly helpful when you’re trying to balance a spreadsheet or draft a financial report. Reacting impulsively to last-minute requests can throw you off, leading to mistakes, or leaving you feeling frazzled or resentful.

The other thing that’s important for you to understand is something that I believe I talked about in a previous episode but that I’ve definitely covered in my monthly webinars and masterclasses – The Mere Urgency Effect.  

Basically, your brain is hard-wired to think that everything is urgent, even when most things are not.  But here’s what’s really important to understand – not only is your brain wired with it, but so is everyone else’s.

In other words, everyone who is making a last minute request is doing so with a brain that believes everything is urgent.  So what happens is that they believe whatever their request is is urgent and your brain agrees with them without taking the time to decide on purpose.

I cannot tell you how often the partner that I work with will come to me, freaking out about a last minute request.  For years the urgency in his brain would trigger the urgency in my brain and I’d wind up stressed and overwhelmed.  

The good news is that you’re not at the mercy of your brain’s automatic responses. With a little awareness of what’s happening, and learning how to manage your brain, you can learn to hit the brakes on that adrenaline rush and approach last-minute requests with a cool head and a steady hand.

Dealing With The Emotional Turmoil

Whether you want to admit it or not, you probably feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster when it comes to those unexpected last-minute requests. 

For example, let’s say you’ve got plans with your significant other, you’re planning on leaving work on time, only to be hit with yet another last-minute request. Suddenly, you find yourself torn between two competing priorities: honoring your plans and meeting someone else’s request.

This is a classic case of boundaries in conflict. On one hand, you know you need to honor your commitment to your significant other and set limits on what you’re willing to take on. But on the other hand, you don’t want to let anyone down or come across as unhelpful or uncooperative. 

So, what do you do? Do you stick to your guns and risk disappointing someone else, or do you cave in and sacrifice your personal time for the sake of keeping the peace?

This, or some version of it, is probably a scenario you’re all too familiar with.  And if you’re not careful, you may wind up making split-second decisions that you regret afterwards.

Think about it – you’ve got the last minute request, but then you also have the aftermath of those split-second decisions. You know the feeling: that sinking sensation in the pit of your stomach when you realize you’ve said yes to yet another request, even though every fiber of your being was screaming “no.”

Before you know it, you’re feeling guilt, anxiety, or frustration. You berate yourself for not being stronger, for not standing up for yourself, for letting others walk all over you. 

It’s a vicious cycle that can leave you drained and defeated. But here’s the thing: you’re not alone. 

We’ve all been there, grappling with those same feelings of doubt and insecurity, giving in to last minute requests without stopping to think about it.  It can feel like our brains have a built-in “yes” button that gets pushed whenever someone asks us for a favor, regardless of whether it’s in our best interest or not.

The thing is, we tell ourselves we’re just being helpful, just being accommodating, just being a team player. But deep down, we know the truth: we’re sacrificing our own needs and priorities for the sake of appeasing others. 

We’re putting their needs ahead of our own, even when it means compromising our own boundaries and well-being in the process.

The issue is that giving in to these impulsive reactions only reinforces the cycle of guilt and frustration. It sends the message that our boundaries don’t matter, that our time and energy are expendable, that saying no is somehow selfish or wrong.

But I’m here to tell you that it’s not. Saying no is a boundary that says, “I matter, and so do my wants and needs.” 

The truth is that as hard-working accountants, I believe it’s high time we started giving ourselves permission to prioritize those wants and needs, even in the face of last-minute requests that threaten to derail us. I believe we’ve been taught to say yes for far too long and it’s become our default, knee-jerk reaction.

We need to learn how to overcome those impulsive reactions and reclaim control over our time and energy.  We need to learn how to better handle last minute requests so that we’re less resentful and more empowered.  

A Four-Step Process To Help Handle Last Minute Requests

Now I want to share a four-step process to help you handle last minute requests.

Step 1: Pause and Breathe – You know that feeling when you’re caught off guard by a sudden request, and your first instinct is to react immediately, without even stopping to think? Believe me, we’ve all been there. But here’s the thing: taking a moment to pause and breathe can make all the difference.

So the next time a last-minute request comes knocking, resist the urge to dive in headfirst. Instead, take a deep breath, pause before saying or doing anything, and do whatever it takes to gather your composure amidst the chaos. 

Trust me, a few seconds of mindfulness can go a long way in helping you make clear-headed decisions that align with your priorities and values.

Step 2: Assess the Request – Once you’ve calmed the storm raging inside your brain, it’s time to take a closer look at the request itself. Ask yourself: How urgent is it really? 

Remember, your brain is hard-wired to think everything is urgent so you need to override that default part of your brain.  Ask yourself if the request is something that needs to be addressed immediately, or can it wait until you’ve had a chance to catch your breath?

Next, consider the impact that fulfilling this request will have on your personal priorities and boundaries. Will saying yes mean sacrificing your own well-being or neglecting other important tasks? 

Is it worth the trade-off, or are there alternative solutions that could achieve the same result without throwing your own needs under the bus?

Step 3: Communicate Clearly – Now comes the moment of truth: communicating your decision to the person making the request. This is where assertiveness is key. 

Remember, it’s perfectly okay to say no, as long as you do so respectfully and assertively.

So don’t beat around the bush or make excuses for why you can’t fulfill the request. Instead, be upfront and honest about your boundaries and limitations. 

And if necessary, offer alternative solutions or compromises that take both parties’ needs into account. Trust me, people will appreciate your honesty and transparency more than you realize.

When dealing with the partner who thought everything was urgent, I would point out all the previous things he said were urgent and needed to be worked on, giving his brain a chance to think rationally instead of reactionary.  90% of the time, the thing wasn’t as urgent as his brain made him believe it was.

Step 4: Manage Emotions – Last but certainly not least, it’s time to take care of yourself. Acknowledge and process any feelings of guilt or frustration that may arise from saying no. 

Remember, it’s natural to feel a twinge of guilt when you’re prioritizing your own needs over someone else’s—but that doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Make sure you reaffirm the importance of your boundaries and remind yourself that saying no is an act of self-respect, not selfishness. Trust me, the more you practice this, the easier it will become to navigate those last-minute requests with confidence and grace.

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Handling Last Minute Requests Successfully 

Now let me share how a coaching client was able to handle last minute requests successfully.  

One of my clients had been the go-to person in her office whenever a last-minute request came in. Whether it was a sudden audit, a client in crisis, or a deadline that seemed impossible to meet, she always rose to the occasion, sacrificing her own needs and priorities in the process.

But as the years went by, she began to feel the strain of constantly putting others’ needs ahead of her own, and no matter how much she gave, it never seemed to be enough. The requests kept coming, and she felt like she was drowning in a sea of never-ending deadlines and obligations.

Once she went through The Smarter Accountant program she decided enough was enough. Together we worked on her work-life balance and boundary-setting.

She learned to set firm boundaries without feeling guilty or selfish. She practiced saying no with confidence and assertiveness, even when it meant disappointing others or risking their disapproval. 

And slowly but surely, she began to reclaim control over her time and energy, carving out space for the things that truly mattered to her outside of work.  Today, she no longer feels overwhelmed by last-minute requests or beholden to the demands of others. 

Instead, she approaches each new challenge with a sense of calm and clarity, knowing that she has the power to choose how she responds. And while the requests still come in from time to time, she no longer lets them dictate her life. 

She’s found a balance that works for her, and she’s never been happier or more fulfilled.

Bottom line: You have the power to choose how you respond to life’s curveballs, even when they come in the form of last-minute requests. 

By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing your own needs, and communicating assertively with others, you can navigate even the trickiest of situations with grace and confidence.  While there may be times that you give in to last minute requests, make sure you like your reason for deciding to deal with it.

And if you choose to wait, remember, it’s not about saying no for the sake of saying no—it’s about honoring your own worth and value, and making choices that align with your priorities and values. You’re not bad or less valuable because you choose to say no.

So the next time a last-minute request comes knocking, take a deep breath, gather your composure, and remember that you have the power to choose how you respond.

And if you ever find yourself struggling to maintain your boundaries or navigate the challenges of last-minute requests, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. I’m here to help you find your footing and reclaim control over your life.

Key Takeaway and Action Item

Remember, the power to handle last-minute requests with confidence lies within you. It’s not about being perfect or saying yes to everything—it’s about setting boundaries, prioritizing your own needs, and communicating assertively. 

Ask yourself, “What boundaries do I need to set or reinforce to better handle last-minute requests while maintaining my well-being and priorities?”

Embrace your worth, honor your values, and make choices that reflect your true priorities. You have the ability to navigate even the most unexpected challenges with grace and control. 

Stay empowered, stay calm, and trust in your capability to handle whatever comes your way.

Well, that’s what I have for you.  Thank you for joining me as I discussed how to handle last minute requests.  As always, I hope you’ve gained valuable insights and practical tools.

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

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

You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But trust me, it’s worth the effort.

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

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

Dead-End Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why can’t I start?

Why can’t I finish?

Why am I so busy?

Why do I always feel like this?

Why did I do this to myself?

Why did they do this to me?

Why can’t I get it together?

Why can’t they get it together?

Why can’t someone else do this?

Why is this happening to me?

Why is my life so hard?

Why haven’t I learned this yet?

What’s wrong with me?

What did I do to deserve this?

What will they think of me?

When is it going to get better?

Why can’t he/she _______?

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

Powerful Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I want to feel?

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

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

How can I make this easier?

How can I get this done in less time?

How can I create what I want?

How can I make this more fun?

How can I delegate this?

What can I do to reach my goal?

What’s my next best step?

What am I grateful for?

What’s great about this?

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

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

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

Incorporating Powerful Questions

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

Here are some things to consider:

Is there a positive belief built into your question?

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

Does your question empower you to take responsibility?

Does your question inspire you to take action?

Does your question generate insight?

Does your question open your mind?

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

Does your question allow for appreciation and compassion?

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

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

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

Using a Powerful Question To Have An Easier Accounting Career

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Accountants Asking Better Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’re going to want to know if you’ve been underutilizing your accountant brain so that you have a starting point for becoming a Smarter Accountant..

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Handling Other People’s Opinions of You

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Handling Other People’s Opinions of Everything Else

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Curiosity Instead Of Condemnation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Common Reasons For Avoidance For Accountants

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Brain’s Role in Avoidance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Step-by-Step Approach For Overcoming Avoidance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Becoming a Smarter Accountant: Overcoming Avoidance

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Comfort Zone Trap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

.

Fear of Failure

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

But thankfully, we can totally conquer it.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Imposter Syndrome

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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