February is winding down and you might feel like your workload is piling on. Research suggests that there are a number of small things you can do to help mitigate the stress. After 35 tax seasons, I'm more than a little familiar with the job hazards caused by our profession's annual cram session. Here are some of my favorite tips for reducing burnout.
1. Don't let long hours be your excuse to eat poorly - sugary snacks can leave you feeling drained of energy. A balanced diet with healthy snacks will help keep you energized. (poor diet can contribute to stress!)
2. Resist the urge to procrastinate. Start tough assignments in the morning when you're freshest. Even if you have to go back to complete it later in the day, it's often easier knowing you've already made progress.
3. Take frequent, timed breaks. Set your smart phone alarm to help you keep conversations to a minimum so you can stay on track (for fun, check out one of the many fake call apps).
5. Get outside - take a walk, go for a drive, or ride your bike to work - and soak in that vitamin D and fresh air!
8. Reward yourself at the end of the day or the end of the week - go skiing, hiking, dine out...
10. Listen to music. Bring in an iPod, or tune to a favorite radio station online. Be courteous to your colleagues if you're in a shared space and use earbuds.
11. Laugh…read a favorite comic, keep a joke book handy, or (if permitted) watch a short clip from a favorite comedy. Laughter helps put things in perspective.
