How to take care of yourself when work won’t stop
As a CPA and Certified Coach, I know firsthand how overwhelming tax season can be. The long hours, endless client demands, and pressure to meet deadlines can make it feel like there’s no time for anything else. I’ve been there…exhausted, running on caffeine, and telling myself, “I’ll rest when tax season is over.” But the truth is, if you don’t take care of yourself now, you won’t be at your best when your clients need you the most.
The good news is there’s a better way. I found this out personally when I hired my first coach, and I’ve been able to manage my tax seasons with much less stress and overwhelm, and I make time to ensure I am taking care of myself all throughout the busy season. I’ve seen such a drastic change and I want you to know that you don’t have to choose between your career and your well-being. By making small but powerful changes, you can reduce stress, boost your energy, and actually enjoy your work again. Here are a few tips to follow…
1. Identify Your Stress Triggers
Before you can reduce stress, you have to understand where it’s coming from. For most accountants, the biggest stressors during the tax season include:
- Tight deadlines that seem impossible to meet
- Workloads that seem to never end
- Client emails and calls that never stop
- Feeling like there’s never enough time for yourself or your friends and family
- The pressure to be perfect and never make a mistake or forget something important
Do any of these sound familiar to you? If so, you’re not alone. Recognizing these stressors is the first step in taking control.
2. Small Habits, Big Impact
You don’t need a full-day spa retreat to feel better, although that would be nice, right? Instead, focus on the small habits you can fit into your day:
- Take 5 minutes to step away from your desk, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Breathe in for five seconds, hold for five seconds, and release for five seconds. By taking even five minutes for yourself, you can clear your mind and lower stress.
- Skip the sugar-loaded snacks that leave you crashing later in the day. Instead, keep easy, healthy options such as nuts, protein bars, or fruit available.
- Try to move your body more. You don’t need a full workout, but stretching or a quick walk can boost your focus and energy.
3. Create Your Personalized Self-Care Plan
Many accountants think self-care is a luxury, but it is actually a productivity tool. When you feel better, you work smarter and faster. Here’s how to create a plan that works for you:
- Set healthy boundaries for yourself by choosing a time each night when you stop checking emails. Let clients know when your response hours are.
- Plan your breaks and personal time. Especially during busy days, schedule short breaks to reset your mind. A five-minute stretch or deep-breathing exercise can make a huge difference. Planning personal time for things that make you happy allows you to look forward to something you enjoy rather than dreading those tasks you don’t want to do.
- Tax season can be lonely. Don’t isolate yourself. Make sure you continue to talk to family, friends, and colleagues, or reach out to a mentor. You can also join us in the support group I created specifically for accountants during tax season; it’s free and helps you create a sense of community.
You Don’t Have To Do This Alone
I’ve helped accountants like you live healthier and happier lives that match their desired lifestyle by reducing stress, managing time, and increasing productivity. I know how hard it is to manage stress and still perform at your best. If you are ready to take back control of your life without sacrificing everything you’ve worked so hard to accomplish in your career, join us for the Coach’s Corner on March 26, 2025, or email Chris Panek at Info@FinancialAdventure.com for more information about my RE*INVENTION™ Process or support group for accountants. You deserve a tax season where you feel focused and in control, and I’m here to help.
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CPE Credits - 1.0 Hour
Field of Study - Personal Development
Course Level: Basic
Instructional Method - Group Internet Based
Prerequisites: None
Advanced Preparation: None
Who Should attend: CPA, Bookkeeper, Accountant, Enrolled Agents, Tax Preparer
This is a premium content member's only training event. You can learn more and join the program here. Annual membership is $599. The program includes 3 monthly CPE webinars with 1-2 hours of Q&A following each event plus access to members only content throughout the year.