Our calendars tell us a lot about our daily lives, and these days they’re also saying it’s that time of year to be ‘thankful.’ This got me thinking: What do accountants have to be thankful about?
As you may know, I spend a fair bit of my own time connecting with accountants and those that look to serve and support them in a variety of ways. Between conferences, conversations, speaking engagements, Zoom and Teams meetings, and a fair bit of social listening, I’ve been able to glean a general sense of where accountants are at with work, clients, technology, and even things in their own lives.
In short, the life of an accounting professional is not an easy one. For the most part, it’s one of choice, to be sure, but how they go about it and what they are really getting out of it is what is top of mind of late. As such, based on my observations, and it being That time of year, I’ve but a list of a few things I believe accountants should be thankful for (not that I’m in the business of “shoulding” on anyone, but I hope you find this insightful at least).
1.) Each Other
It may seem trite, but I am telling you for a profession that works so much in the numbers, the true volume of how many of you there are that share similar successes and challenges is overwhelming. And when you find each other and connect in a variety of ways, you see the magic happen. You understand how the support and shared learning impact not only who you are as a professional but also as a human just trying to do their best in an ever-changing, challenging, and rewarding environment. In other words, you should be thankful for the real community that exists and that you are a part of to help you grow in ways you may not yet know or even help support your day-to-day.
2.) Technology
In my time overseeing the accounting profession, I’ve watched technology evolve from an afterthought and almost line-item expense akin to office furniture to the very thing that not only supports the work you do, but also allows opportunities and time that you were not giving yourself or your clients to do and be more than ever before. Yes, it can be all kinds of frustrating, overwhelming, and downright infuriating and even concerning in its imperfection. At the same time, these tools and platforms have evolved not only with you but also in some cases because of you and because it is for you. Be thankful it exists and find ways to coexist with it to continue to make your lives and your clients’ lives that much better. May it also open doors to be the kind of professional you want to be.
3.) YOU
Yes, I know it’s the height of cheese, but man, if this is not the truest thing on this whole list. That’s right, people. Look in the mirror, and chuck yourselves on the shoulder. If you do a bit of yoga, pat that back firmly for all that you do for individuals, businesses, and even your staff while still trying to maintain some semblance of a life. You help support people’s financial dreams. You often guide them through the worst of times and even transition them on to other professionals when they are no longer a fit for you or your firm. You give your staff hope and direction, and when it comes to change, you are not averse (despite popular opinion to the contrary). How, you say? Because you deal with myriad software updates, technological changes, staff uncertainty, and IRS and Tax Code changes on an ongoing basis while somehow keeping your sanity. It is indeed you who should be most thankful of you for everything you are and do on the regular. Embrace your true value, you’ve more than earned it.
Thank You, all of you for all you are and do.