Robins is chirping in the backyard, geese flying north, opening day of the baseball season, the smell of blooming flowers ......
Confident signs of spring.
Long office hours, short weekends, little time with family and friends .....
Confident signs of a busy season for many accountants.
We all know that Busy Season is a working marathon that so many accountants run every spring to do their work before the onset of taxes. To be able to compete in such prestigious marathons as the Boston Marathon requires a lot of training, and you must be in peak fitness. But even to run the “Busy Season” marathon, you must be in shape - both physically and mentally. And the number "crunch" is not considered an exercise.
Exercise is not only important for the health of your body, it is also important for your brain. According to a study conducted by the Department of Exercise Physiology at the University of Georgia, even a short exercise for 20 minutes per day improves information processing and memory functions. This means that you also get brain enhancement by getting into the gym or going for a run.
Many accounting firms provide fitness loans or even conduct fitness classes in the office to keep their employees in shape. Some firms sponsor various sports teams and employee clubs, including running, scuba diving, curling, hockey and cricket to help their accountants have fun and reduce stress.
And in chaotic times, many firms offer stressful debuts, which can range from massage chairs to bean throwing competitions. But what seems to make stress accountants the happiest is the food. Some firms will provide their employees with treats, such as social ice cream, meals or breakfast for those “I want to press the“ Postpone ”button again on Saturday morning.
Although food can be a great incentive, it can also cause problems, as many people will use food to relieve stress. A study conducted at the University of Michigan in 2010 showed that as cortisol levels increase in healthy, unqualified adults, they consume more snacks. Many nights in the office can lead to late night snacks and trips along the fast food path.
And then there is coffee - the official drink of Zanzi Season. For some, this is what you need to start the day and stay on your guard. And for others, this is what is needed throughout the day - it could really be called dependent on their tax return. A study conducted by researchers at Duke University Medical Center shows that caffeine, obtained in the morning, affects the body, which persists to sleep and increases stress consistently throughout the day.
Long, grueling days in the office can also greatly affect sleep. Sleep is necessary for your body to function properly. Not only does the lack of sleep increase stress and cause irritation - sleep deprivation can have many negative side effects, including overeating, headaches, and a lack of judgment that influence decision making. A recent study by the Institute for Sleep Disorders and Research has shown that drowsiness significantly affects effective decision making. Good night is important for accountants to help them make accurate and informative decisions for their clients.
Potential Unlimited, a coaching and stress management firm that works with accountants to help them avoid burnout and stress during this hectic time, offers some tips.
- Do not skip breakfast or dine because you are busy. You will be undernourished or starved and eventually fill the void with unwanted food. Instead, refuel regularly through foods such as fruits, nuts and yogurt. These products are healthy and easy to pack.
- Get a good night out.
- Do not use food to relieve stress. Try stretching, breathing deeply or some exercise.
- Exercise is a great way to handle stress levels. Even 20 minutes a day can help you recharge your batteries. Or, if you need to, change your fitness program during employment. If you need too much time to go to the gym, then do light exercises at work. Take the stairs or go to work.
- Limit caffeine.
- Do not forget to build time in your schedule for the important people in your life - your family and friends. Life balance is so important.
- Try meditation.
- Laugh.
Not only does Busy Season affect accountants, but also the families of these professionals. Some spouses consider themselves to be "widows of the tax season" during this time, because their accounting spouse marries their work.
“The increased workload requires inquiries from the family of an accountant who do not see their loved one as much as they would like,” said Barry Haney, a BDO certified public accountant and father of four young boys. "But the light at the end of the tunnel for most accountants is a chance to get extra time in the summer when the office usually slows down."
Although this cannot be considered part of the Income Tax Act, there are some unwritten rules when it comes to this time of year for accountants. No weddings or births were planned at this time. And, of course, no one would want their birthday in this difficult period.
At the end of the marathon there is a finish line.
A wonderful evening on the golf course, a pleasant evening with family or friends, a day at the spa, a well-earned day off or vacation.
Confident signs of the end of a busy season for accountants.
