When filing mistakes can be costly, it’s understandable that tax time can be stressful if trying to handle your finances on your own. This time of year can be especially difficult if you’re dealing with issues like Seasonal Affective Disorder, as wintry weather can add extra stress. So, how do you manage stress to stay in control now and during other stressful times?
Avoid financial surprises.
Last year, Capital One found that 73% of Americans say their finances are a major cause of anxiety. But money doesn’t have to be so stressful! While you can’t always predict a costly emergency, working with an accountant throughout the year can help you avoid many other unexpected costs, like a surprise tax bill. With a good accountant by your side, finances can be one less worry on your plate, allowing you to feel more in control of your situation.
Keep your desk or work area clean.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, try tidying your workspace. You may find that a clean desk can be a huge boost to your productivity—up to 84%! Regularly cleaning and disinfecting commonly touched surfaces can also help you avoid getting sick.
Open and sort any physical mail.
When you get mail, open it, and consider what kind of mail it is. Is it something to do, something to delegate, something to file, or something to toss? Sort your mail accordingly. Make sure you’re holding onto any financial statements or tax documents for your accountant. Don’t forget to actually do the task or toss the junk! Even neat piles become a mess tomorrow.
Organize your email inbox.
Read your incoming emails and sort them the same way as your physical mail. If you find email notifications distracting, you can try a strategy called email batching. Instead of checking and responding to emails constantly, set aside time to respond to them in “batches.” Checking your email only a few times a day can help you manage stress and may give you more time to focus on other tasks.
Set realistic priorities.
Don’t overload yourself or commit to doing more than you’re able. Consider what you can realistically get done in your time frame. If you’ve already overcommitted, prioritize your tasks. Do what you can, and for what you can’t…
Communicate honestly and promptly.
When problems arise, let people know as early as you can if a commitment you made can’t be met. If possible, reschedule for when you will be able to meet their needs. Keeping communication open—with both your clients or customers, your staff, and your coworkers—can help avoid a lot of stress. And when you’re short on time, don’t be afraid to skip the small talk and focus on business.
Establish checklists and set procedures.
If you have standard ways of doing tasks, you may find yourself feeling less worried about things getting done correctly. Research has shown that having a routine can make it easier to manage stress. Whether it’s getting your financial system organized with an accountant, setting procedures for handling incoming tasks, or just developing daily habits for yourself, maintaining structure during stressful times can help you feel like you’re in control of your surroundings.
Don’t do it alone.
Mental health is as nuanced and individualized as physical health, so no solution is one-size-fits-all. As with taxes, mental health is something you shouldn’t hesitate to discuss with a professional, especially if you are struggling with serious negative thoughts or intense anxiety.
If you’re feeling overworked, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others. That’s where Padgett can help. Finding a full-time tax and accounting partner can help take some time-consuming tasks off your plate so you can spend more time and energy on the things that matter most. Reach out to a Padgett tax professional near you today to find out how we can help get your life back in balance.