If you’re like most people, you probably had a busy end to 2024 between end-of-year deadlines and the holidays. And, if you’re like most people, while you may have gotten some rest during the time off, it can be almost automatic to jump back into things, start having meetings and get rolling on projects—especially with the traditional tax season looming.

Before you jump into the hustle, though, it’s essential to keep your well-being—and that of your team’s—in mind.

The financial industry is no stranger to stress. Studies consistently rank accounting among the most stressful professions, with burnout being a significant concern during peak periods. The high demands of tax season can lead to long hours and mental exhaustion. So, maintaining well-being is essential for personal health, professional effectiveness and, yes, your bottom line.

Studies show that prioritizing employee well-being through wellness programs can significantly improve productivity, reduce absenteeism and lower health care costs, ultimately leading to increased profitability and a positive impact on the company’s financial performance.

One Harvard study showed that for every dollar companies invest in wellness programs, they save over $3 on medical costs and nearly $3 on absenteeism. Plus, these programs help create a company culture where employees feel valued, happy and motivated—leading to higher productivity, less turnover and a more engaged team overall.

The tone for this, as is often the case, starts at the top. For CPAs in leadership roles, modeling self-care sets the culture for the entire team. When leaders demonstrate healthy habits—such as taking breaks, prioritizing mental health and managing stress—they give their staff permission to do the same.

So, how’s this done? Strategies and programs will look different from firm to firm depending on circumstances, but there are some entry-level steps to take, including offering stand-up
desks, hold walk-and-talk meetings, block out “no meeting” times and include healthy snacks in the office.

For more tips, I invite you to look into our Mental Health Wellness series, which offers courses covering everything from stress reduction to overcoming burnout to building resiliency. Visit our website and search “mental health” for a list of courses.

Tax season will always be challenging, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of health and well-being. By making wellness a priority, CPAs and finance professionals can navigate this demanding period with resilience and grace. Leaders who champion self-care set the stage for a healthier, happier and more productive workforce.

What strategies have worked for you? What innovations have you implemented at your workplace? I would love to hear from you! Please share your experiences with me.