For small business bookkeepers and accountants especially, this time of year can be especially stressful.  Not only do you have to keep up with all the regulations for taxes, you’re filling out W-2’s and processing all of the year-end information as well as the normal monthly work you do.  You’re putting in long hours trying to get everything done.  On top of that you have pressure from clients to get their work done NOW.

The temptation is to eat on the run, survive on caffeine, stop going to the gym, drink more alcohol, etc.  All of which will only lead to burnout and possibly serious health consequences.  Now is the time when bookkeepers and accounting professionals really need to take care of your mental and physical health.

Here are some tips to help bookkeepers and accountants greatly reduce your stress during the tax season:

• If you honestly can’t fit time in to go to the gym, make opportunities for exercise.  Park farther away in the parking lot and take the stairs wherever you go.  Go for a short walk during lunch break.

• Play soft, relaxing music as you work.  And every hour stretch out your neck and shoulder muscles. 

• Continue to practice healthy eating habits, not skipping breakfast or lunch. Stock up on high protein snacks so you’re not grabbing junk food that will only add to your fatigue.

• You need to take time to decompress at lunchtime, so get out of the office and go somewhere pleasant and peaceful to eat your lunch.

• Leave work at the office even if you work at home.  Set a time you’re not going to answer the phone or think about work so you can concentrate on being with your family or doing something you enjoy. That way you can get a good night’s sleep and face the office with a fresh attitude in the morning.

• “Humor is the best medicine” is a well-known phrase.  It really does work at relieving stress and anxiety and boosting your immune system. 

• Talk with a trusted friend who can empathize with you. 

• Treat yourself to a massage.  It works the tension out of your muscles and relieves stress headaches.

Do your clients and yourself a favor and take time for yourself.  Are you looking for support from people who understand what freelance bookkeepers are going through?  Why don’t you join us at The Bookkeeper’s Club?  We’d love to see you there.

~Albert Einstein~