If you ask anyone who has attained their CPA certification, they will tell you it was one of the hardest things they have ever done. In fact, many people don’t pass some units the first time, and they have to study again and retake the test. The amount of time required to study in order to pass those tests is unbelievable. Combining that with your regular job, it is no wonder most people find that they have completely neglected their family and friends.
So, how do you maintain a balance between working on your CPA test prep, doing your job and spending time with your loved ones? Here are five suggestions that have worked for many people before you:
Prepare Your Loved Ones
Unfortunately, most people don’t understand the hell one goes through when studying for the CPA exam. It is, therefore, your job to explain to your close friends that you are about to embark on a very difficult journey and that they need to give you some time to focus. Let them know that you will not be available to hang out as often as they are used to because you really need to study.
Involve Them
When you just lock yourself in a room and shut everybody out, they can get worried and feel neglected. If you want your loved ones to stop feeling that way, you can include them in the study process. Explain to your closest team that you will need their support to do a few things. The tasks can range from bringing you food to taking up your chores so you can study, or even having them quiz you with your CPA practice test.
Be strategic
All big things are achieved through strategy. The uphill climb that is CPA Certification can be conquered by coming up with a study plan that will work for you. Have a schedule of what and when you want to study every day and what you will do with the rest of the hours. You can even try finding a tutor to help with your CPA test prep, who can help you distribute your work over the few months you have, to make the load easier. Do not wait until the last minute to study a few units at a time because that will cause burnout and high levels of stress.
Rest
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. It is very important to take some time off from studying to rest and spend time with your loved ones. This can mean an hour or two every day or a full weekend every week, whatever helps you the best. Being intentional about creating time for family, friends, and rest is very important for the people in your life and yourself because it recharges you.
Appreciate Everyone Along the Way
If your family and friends have been really supportive by helping and giving you a break, you should let them know you appreciate their sacrifice often. Take some time to send messages or make phone calls just to say thank you for the support. If possible, spend quality time with them and even buy them gifts.
Balancing work, studies, and relationships is not easy especially during the CPA test prep. However, it’s achievable with the intentional planning of time and understanding. Be sure that the people who really care about you will understand, and be there for you during that period if you make them part of the journey and appreciate them.
