In the spring of 2022, as the world was slowly re-entering normalcy after the COVID-19 pandemic, I decided to challenge myself with something big—a half marathon. It had been a tough couple of years, and I wanted to set a goal that required dedication, discipline, and a structured routine. My niece and I signed up for a race in Bellevue, WA, giving ourselves a concrete deadline to train for.
To prepare, I followed a 14-week training schedule. I started with shorter weekday runs—3 miles at a time—and built up endurance by adding a mile each week to my long Sunday runs. By the time race day arrived, I had worked my way up to 12 consecutive miles. It wasn’t just about physical endurance—it was mental preparation and having the right tools, too.
Tax season feels the same way. Just like a runner relies on the right gear—proper shoes, apparel, and hydration packs—accountants depend on their own set of essential tools, mindset, and physical endurance. Without the right preparation, both can feel overwhelming. But when you equip yourself with the best resources and strategies, the process becomes smoother—and even enjoyable.
Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned—both in training and in tax work—is that having the right tools makes all the difference. A runner wouldn’t wear brand-new shoes on race day or forget to hydrate during long runs. Similarly, tax professionals rely on software, workflows, and automations to stay efficient and focused.
For me, QuickBooks Online and ProConnect Tax Online are like my most trusted running gear. One of the key strategies that has helped me streamline my year-end process is leveraging QuickBooks Online’s Accountant Tools, such as Books Review and Prep for Taxes. These features allow me to efficiently review, adjust, and map financials to ensure accurate tax preparation.
And just like a race, tax season can be grueling. But something I’ve learned along the way is that it helps to enjoy the process instead of just pushing through.
Embracing the Process
Yes, there will be challenges. There will be moments when I wonder, Why did I sign up for this? I love what I do, but that doesn’t mean I love every single minute of it—and I’ve learned that’s okay. The key for me has been embracing the process, taking the pressure off, and appreciating the work I’ve put in while allowing myself some grace along the way.
Preparing for the Race
Every runner knows that training isn’t just about running—it’s about having the right gear, mindset, and recovery plan. What has worked for me is thinking of tax season the same way.
The tools and systems I use are like my race-day equipment—runners invest in the right gear, and tax professionals benefit from utilizing the tools that best fit their workflow, whether it’s tax software, organizational strategies, or streamlined processes. Finding the right setup has helped me work more efficiently and focus on the work that truly matters.
Beyond tools, I’ve also learned that preparation isn’t just about technical skills. Just as runners need to fuel their bodies, I’ve found it essential to take care of myself during these intense 10-12 weeks of work.
In the book The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, John Mark Comer writes:
“We often assume pathological busyness is okay. After all, everybody else is busy too.”
Reading this book has reminded me of the importance of joy and peace. These themes resonated with me, and I’ve been working on incorporating them into my tax season mindset. Instead of rushing through everything, I’ve tried to approach my work with more intentionality and presence.
Finding Joy in Small Rituals
One of the best lessons I’ve learned is that small, intentional moments of joy can make a big difference.
When I trained for my half marathon, I realized the most rewarding part wasn’t just race day—it was the training itself. I found joy in mile 10 because I knew I was close. I had prepared for this moment, and I could appreciate it in real time.
That mindset shift has helped me navigate tax season in a healthier way. Instead of just pushing through, I’ve learned to incorporate small rituals that bring me peace:
- A short jog around my neighborhood – Moving my body and stepping away from work clears my mind.
- Reading five pages of a book I love – A simple way to slow down and reset.
- Enjoying my commute – Instead of dreading the drive, I turn it into a moment of reflection or a podcast break.
These aren’t grand gestures, but they’ve been meaningful in keeping me grounded.
The Power of Rest and Recovery
Something I’ve come to understand—both in training and in tax work—is that rest isn’t optional.
Runners know that recovery days are just as crucial as training days. Without them, injuries happen, motivation drops, and performance suffers. I’ve realized the same is true in tax work.
So, what’s worked for me is:
- Taking breaks in the middle of the day – Standing up, stretching, or stepping outside for fresh air.
- Allowing myself to nap if needed – Even a short rest helps my focus. Yes, it’s okay to take naps in the middle of tax season!
- Enjoying meals with loved ones – Being present and stepping away from work makes a big difference.
- Setting boundaries – I’ve learned not to feel guilty about not responding to that 11:00 PM client message.
I used to think pushing through was the only way to survive tax season, but I’ve learned that burnout doesn’t serve me or my clients. Taking care of myself actually makes me better at what I do.
Crossing the Finish Line
As tax season progresses, there will be long days, tired moments, and stressful deadlines. But there will also be victories—clients who appreciate your expertise, problems you solve, and a sense of accomplishment that comes from completing the race you trained for.
So, what I’ve learned is this:
👉 I am prepared.
👉 I have trained for this.
👉 And just like in a race, I deserve to enjoy the journey.
Because at the end of the day, taking care of myself isn’t just good for me—it’s what helps me go the distance. And that’s what will help me in the long run. 😉
This blog post is part of a paid partnership with Intuit The content has been created collaboratively, and Intuit has compensated Astrid for her time and effort in producing this content.