New Year’s resolutions you can actually stick to

Here we are again...?

It’s January.??

The festive cheer has faded, the Christmas treats have (mostly) been eaten, and we’ve officially reached the halfway point of the decade.??

If you’re an accountant (or working in any corner of public practice), you’re likely already bracing yourself for January madness. Tax season is upon us, but before it all kicks off, let’s hit pause for a second and think:?

What are your New Year’s resolutions for 2025??

Now, I know what you’re thinking…?

"Oh great, another article that will tell me to go to the gym more and make me feel bad about not being on my A-game during the most difficult month of the year.”??

But don’t worry – we too find advice like that to be counter-productive. Instead, we want to give you five small changes that can make a huge difference to your life, both professionally and personally.?

Here are some New Year’s resolutions that accountants can smash 2025.?

Reflect on your career goals?

Let’s start with a nice easy one.??

The start of a new year is the perfect time to step back and take a good look at where you are.?

Are you happy in your role? Are you growing, learning, and progressing? Or are you feeling stuck in the same old routine??

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:?

• What are my career goals for 2025? Do I want to step up to manager level, explore audit director opportunities, or work towards RI status??
• Am I in the right firm? Does my current workplace align with my values and ambitions, or is it time for a change??
• What new challenges do I want to take on? Maybe it’s working with bigger clients, new industries, or even switching from accounts to tax.?

If you’re feeling stagnant, it might be time to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s finally obtaining your ACA or ACCA qualification, specialising in a new area, or exploring opportunities with firms that value progression and development, 2025 could be the year you level up.?

(...and if you need a little career nudge, you know where we are.)?

Striking a better work-life balance?

Yes, this one’s an obvious choice. But you’d be surprised how many accountants struggle to set professional boundaries.??

In fact, a recent report by Sage found that 86% of accountants and bookkeeping are feeling burnout, with 25% of those seriously considering leaving the profession in 2025.??

Contributing factors to industry-wide low morale include “long hours, pressure to keep up with changing tax laws, and the need to meet clients’ complex financial needs.”?

Public practice can be demanding. Long hours, deadlines, and busy seasons can leave you feeling like work is your whole life.??

Here are a few simple resolutions to help you find a better balance:?

• Ditch the late-night emails: Set clear boundaries by logging off at a reasonable time. Use tools like “scheduled send” for non-urgent emails and turn off work notifications after hours to reclaim your evenings.?

• Take up a creative hobby: Maybe it’s painting, baking, or learning an instrument. Finding something you enjoy outside of work can be a brilliant way to unwind.?

• Join a local club or group: Whether it’s a book club, running group, or yoga class, getting involved in something new can help you meet new people and break up the work-week monotony.?

Life is about more than spreadsheets and tax returns (shocking, I know). Make time to enjoy it!?

• Make time for family and friends: Whether it’s planning a family day out once a month or dedicating Sundays to turning off your phone and catching up with loved ones, prioritise the people who matter most.?
• Take regular breaks: A lunch break is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Step away from your desk, grab some fresh air, and recharge. We know this is easier said than done, but learning to say no and recognising the first stages of burnout is essential.??

Work-life balance doesn’t mean being lazy or less committed. It’s about showing up as your best self for your clients, your team, and most importantly, yourself.?

Expand your professional network?

Accountancy isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people too. Building strong relationships with your peers, clients, and industry connections can lead to all kinds of opportunities.?

If time allows, why not try to attend a networking event, webinar or industry conference? Or if your schedule doesn’t allow it, simply take some time after work to build your LinkedIn connections, engage with posts or share your thoughts online.??

Something as small as a “Happy New Year” message could spark a great conversation.??

You never know where a new connection might lead…?

Make 2025 the year you find the perfect role?

Finally, let’s talk about your career. If you’re feeling unfulfilled, undervalued, or ready for a new challenge, there’s no better time to take action.?

Maybe you want:?

• More flexible or hybrid working.?

• A firm that supports your development and helps you grow.?

• A better salary or a role that aligns with your ambitions.?

Whatever it is, you deserve to find a role (and a firm) that works for you.?

At Public Practice Recruitment Ltd, we help accountants just like you find roles where they can thrive. Whether you’re looking for progression, balance, or a fresh start, we’re here to make it happen.?

And now... it’s over to you!?

So, what’s your New Year’s resolution going to be? Will you finally nail that work-life balance, pick up a new hobby, or take the leap to find your perfect role??

Whatever it is, 2025 is your year. Go out there, set those goals, and have one of your most rewarding and fulfilling years yet. And if your resolution happens to involve a shiny new career move… well, you know where to find us.?

Here’s to a happy, successful, and fulfilling year ahead. You’ve got this!?