Newly Corporate

Its almost the new year, which for most people means resolutions and a new start. However for me, its the beginning of “busy season.” I say busy season with “” because everyone thinks that its the only time of the year we (accountants) are busy. The truth is, if your any good, busy season is year round, extensions, fiscal year ends, all change when tax returns are due, but I digress.

What do you do when it comes time to really get stuff done? When you might be little less than motivated, but you know, this has to get done. I am reaching that moment right now.

A little glimpse into my life: Currently we are finishing up mutual fund tax season at work, and hedge funds are beginning soon. But also on my plate are two CPA exams within 40 days and Masters class beginning mid-January, and a wedding to plan come July. I’m going to be busy! I’m not saying I’m busier than other people, or trying to show off my filled up calender, but just letting you know I’m busy, and this is how I plan to deal with it:

1) Work first: with the exception of love life and relationships, work comes first. I make a general prioritization in my life. For the most part: Love Life, Work, CPA, School. That is how I know what to concentrate on. But remember over-multitasking can be counterprodcutive.

2) Health: There isn’t time to work out. At least not for me, but you can’t neglect your body, or else it will fall apart when you need it most. For me it means eat good food, fresh, healthy food. We order out a lot during busy season and I always go for the better choices. I’m not going to list them because you know what is good for you! My favorite is water. I drink a lot of water when I get busy, two advantages 1) cheap and 2) plain old good for you.

3) Learn to work on less sleep: I’m not saying neglect your sleep and drop to 3 hours and live off of lattes and espressos. But don’t expect to get a full 8 eight hours every night of the week (unless you are a super productive robot). I know I can operate with 4, I am sufficient with 5, and 6 is darn good. I know I am a morning person so I adjust my schedule accordingly. I’ll be going to bed around 10 – 11 and waking at 4:30 am most mornings in order to start work at 5, 5:30.

4) Notepad: Every-time I get busy, I have a notepad. Its my idea keeper, to do list, sanity gaurd, and friend. Although this is a good thing to keep all the time, it becomes twice as important when your busy. I feel lost without it, like when a 16 year old loses their phone. I almost cry!

5) Acceptance: Most important I feel is acceptance. I put myself in this situation so I can’t be upset with anyone. I know it will make me a better accountant and I know it will end eventually. Accepting that you will be really busy will help you plan and deal with it when it comes. Besides if its your passion, you pushing yourself is a must.

Take your breaks when they come cause you will never know when the will come again. How do you deal with busy times? do you have any special tricks that really get you through that tough day? Maybe you have a reliever that brings you back to focus? Share with us.