Tax season might mean less sleep for accountants, but contrary to popular opinion, life for us isn’t just about the numbers. In fact, along my journey, I’ve found that balancing work and leisure actually fuels my passion. Not just because I’m dedicated to saving my clients money, but also because unwinding on the golf course has led to meaningful industry connections and sharpened my knowledge.
From the intense workload of tax season prep in March and April to the pressure of extended deadlines in September and October, I’ve learned to brace myself for the peak seasons and strategically plan vacations and quality family time. It might be something that’s come with experience, but somehow, even without trying, I manage to stay in the know.
Tax changes up ahead? We’re sure to cover this while hitting a birdie. Whether out golfing or skiing, traveling between states for sports season has also meant brushing up on state-specific tax nuances. Because one thing’s for sure – even if I must admit it myself – accountants always manage to slip their best tax wins into the conversation.
Staying relaxed is the new way to master your art. So, I thought I’d brush you up on where to go to stay in season. With May and June being the most relaxed months for us, here are my sporting favorites. Take your pick when we’re off tax season, and who knows, we might even meet on the fairway.
Golf: The ideal golfing temperature hovers around 50–70°F. States like Florida, Arizona, and Nevada offer year-round play, while northern states enjoy a short season from late spring through early fall.
Skiing: January and February bring peak skiing conditions, but they also collide with the start of tax season. High-altitude resorts in Colorado, Utah, and Vermont offer world-class skiing, but the challenge lies in finding time to enjoy them during the busiest months of the year.
Accountants’ Mental Health Well During Peak Seasons
As we know, these are the busiest times for us: March, April, September, October, January, and February.
At our firm, March is brutal. With corporate tax deadlines and the pressure of the upcoming April 15 due date, we power through with discipline and resilience. Skiing conditions may be superb, but realistically, there’s little time to hit the slopes.
The same goes for April, the climax of tax season. It’s a tough month, and at Fusion CPA, we’re keenly aware of the importance of managing burnout. Our hours are flexible, but we’re united in our goal to get things done.
In September and October, the extension deadlines bring a second wave of tax season stress. However, once the mid-October deadline passes, all systems go for golfing.
January & February: Although skiing is at its peak, balancing early tax season demands with winter sports requires meticulous planning.
Navigating through these months while staying sane isn’t easy, but it’s possible with the right approach. Here’s what helps me stay grounded, even during the most hectic periods:
- Set Realistic Boundaries. I’ve learned to establish clear start and end times for my workday. Even when working long hours, we’re not here to kill ourselves. Knowing when to “clock out” helps me prevent burnout from overworking.
- Take Short, Regular Breaks. Stepping away from my desk for a few minutes every couple of hours does wonders for mental stamina. Even a short walk or some light stretching can help reset my focus.
- Prioritize Physical Activity. It sounds obvious, but it’s easy to feel resentment seeing others out skiing while being chained to the desk. I’ve found that getting my heart rate up – even if it’s just for 20 minutes a day – makes a huge difference in my energy and mood.
- Stay Connected Socially. It might sound counterproductive, but making time for short catch-ups with my kids and family actually keeps me motivated. Those brief moments of connection help me stay grounded.
Balancing work, leisure, and tax season stress requires strategy. But, by understanding the ebb and flow of tax deadlines and aligning them with seasonal activities, we can better plan both our personal and professional development. Mastering this balance allows us not only to excel in our careers but also to thrive year-round from a mental health perspective.
After all, what is life if it can’t be enjoyed? I look forward to winning at work and in sports with all of you!
