Doing Joyful Work
Financial Cents
Accounting Practice Management Software to Easily Track Client Work, Manage Staff & Hit Your Deadlines. #GetWorkDone
Joy isn’t just a fleeting emotion—it can actually boost your productivity and well-being. According to Ingrid Fetell Lee, author of Joyful, even small tweaks like adding a pop of color to your workspace, keeping a favorite trinket nearby, or letting in natural light can spark moments of joy that shift your mindset.
This idea is backed by research published in ScienceDirect, which found that joyful work environments aren’t just nice-to-haves. They actually improve performance, resilience, and even creativity. Joy helps your brain work better, plain and simple.
Nancy McClelland agrees. In her interview with us, she shared that celebrating small wins, staying connected with colleagues, and weaving in tiny moments of mindfulness can make your day feel lighter, even when it’s packed with deadlines.
So, what’s one small change you can make to see a big difference? Add something joyful to your space, share a quick laugh with a coworker, or pause to recognize a small victory.
This matters even more during the busy season when the grind feels endless. A little joy might be the best productivity hack you haven’t tried yet.
“I’ve had years where tax season completely drained me,” she admits. “But over time, I realized I have control. I’ve learned to set boundaries and focus on what brings me joy.” - Nancy McClelland.
Communities
The Collaboration Room - A Community by Mike Sylvester Imagine having a go-to spot where accounting pros hang out, swap ideas, and troubleshoot the daily grind together. That’s The Collaboration Room by Mike Sylvester. It’s like your virtual breakroom but way more helpful—packed with firm owners and accounting folks sharing real talk, clever hacks, and plenty of “why didn’t I think of that?” moments.
Financial Cents' Tax Season Wellness Breaks Tax season got you feeling like you’re running on caffeine and sheer willpower? Time for a reset. Think 30-minute virtual hangouts with quick deskercise routines, calming meditations, and fun raffles. It’s like hitting the refresh button for your brain—no spreadsheets required.
Hot today
Enhancing Efficiency: Why DeepSeek AI’s R1 Model Deserves Your Attention
AI tools are rapidly becoming the backbone of modern business operations, but not all are created equal. Enter DeepSeek AI’s R1 Model, a game-changing advancement that's making waves for all the right reasons. According to CNBC TV18, this isn’t just another AI tool—it’s a powerful, intelligent assistant designed to improve how you manage workflows, analyze complex data sets, and even predict future trends with remarkable accuracy.
Imagine having an extra brain in your firm, one that doesn’t sleep doesn’t get overwhelmed and thrives on turning raw data into actionable insights. The R1 Model excels at automating routine tasks, enhancing productivity, and supporting data-driven decision-making like never before. Whether you’re looking to improve forecasting, streamline operational processes, or uncover hidden patterns in your business analytics, this tool could be the upgrade your firm has been waiting for.
Curious to see how the R1 Model could transform your workflow? Dive into CNBC TV18’s in-depth guide to understand why this AI breakthrough is more than just hype—it’s a strategic advantage you can’t afford to overlook.
The Secret to Smooth Collaboration in Accounting Firms
Collaboration in accounting firms isn’t just about using the right tools; it’s about creating the right environment. Strong teamwork can be the difference between projects that flow seamlessly and those that get bogged down in miscommunications and missed deadlines. But how do you foster that kind of environment?
This Financial Cents article breaks down practical, actionable strategies to improve collaboration within your firm. It covers everything from setting clear expectations so everyone knows their role, to establishing feedback loops that actually work—no more vague comments or unhelpful check-ins. You’ll learn how to create processes that encourage open communication, mutual accountability, and a shared sense of purpose across your team.
If your firm has ever struggled with siloed workflows, unclear responsibilities, or projects falling through the cracks, this article is packed with tips that are easy to implement and surprisingly effective. Discover how small adjustments in your communication habits and team structure can lead to big improvements in productivity and morale.
Puzzle
Get Work Done Grid: Think you know productivity? One clue reads, “A visual tool that tracks tasks in columns” (six letters). Stumped? You’ve probably used it this week.
Swipe this workflow template
Swipe Arlene Kristensen’s Canadian T1 General Tax Return workflow template to help you remember where you are at with each client and in what order clients initial contact with you.
Get more templates from firm owners like you in our community template library.
Meme
Relatable?
Busy Season Corner
[Almost] Everything You Need to Conquer Busy Season
Busy season is here, and we know it can feel like a marathon—but you don’t have to do it alone. That’s why we’ve created the Tax Season Hub, your go-to resource for surviving (and thriving) during the busiest time of the year.
This hub is packed with everything you need to tackle busy season with confidence, including:
Tax Season Workflow Templates – Streamline your processes and keep everything running smoothly.
Expert Articles – Get tips on managing tax season stress, prioritizing tasks, and staying organized.
Important Deadlines – Never miss a key date with our handy reminders.
Podcasts – Hear from industry pros about how they navigate the busy season.
ADHD-Friendly Resources – Tools and tips to help you stay focused and productive.
The 5-Day Tax Season Workflow Email Course by Nick Boscia – Learn practical strategies to manage your workload efficiently, straight to your inbox.
Everything you need to make this tax season your most organized and stress-free yet!
Plus, don’t forget to take care of yourself during the madness! Our hub also highlights Tax Season Wellness Breaks, designed to help you relax and recharge with yoga, meditation, sound baths, and more.
Ready to make this tax season your best yet?
Have you heard about the #FC6KWalkChallenge?
Here’s how to join: Walk 6,000 steps or more daily this week. Post your daily steps on Facebook, LinkedIn, or X. Don’t forget to tag us @FinancialCents and use the hashtag #FC6KWalkChallenge so we can follow along!
The person with the highest average steps takes home the prize by the end of every week. Learn more here.
Busy Season Wall of Positivity
Need some inspiration and positivity this tax season? Visit our Wall of Positivity for a dose of encouragement, and don’t forget to add your own! Share a tip, a kind word, or a little sunshine to brighten someone else’s day.
Noteworthy
Why “Hustle Culture” Might Be Holding You Back
We get it—grind mode feels productive. But this HuffPost article flips the script on hustle culture. Spoiler: working non-stop isn’t a badge of honor; it might be what’s burning you out. The piece dives into how constantly chasing “more” can kill creativity and drain your focus. Want to work smarter (and feel better doing it)? You might need to do less.
Master Your Mondays with Peter Plink
Watch this
Struggling to start your week on the right foot? In this Workflow Live event, Peter Piluk shares practical strategies to help you take control of your Mondays, boost productivity, and set the tone for a successful week. Watch the recording to learn how to tackle your to-do list with focus and confidence!
Until Next Time,