Is your breathing shallow, your heart racing, your shoulders up around your ears? Yes, my friend, that is Tax Season Stress!
It’s a beautiful weekend, and if you are doing your taxes right now, you may be feeling additional stress from friends or family who want your attention. And of course, you want to play – but you also need to devote just a little more time to your taxes.
The first thing to do, of course, is explain to your loved ones you will join them soon, since you’ve done most of the work already. Send them away for a few hours with a plan for the late afternoon.
Once at your desk, set your smart phone to buzz you once per hour, to remind you to walk outside and take a deep breath. Put your face up to the sun and enjoy a moment of peace and self-assurance. When you are ready, return to your desk with a body that is refreshed. Of course, remind yourself that you will be off and enjoying the weekend in just a little while.
Take a moment and ask yourself – How does money anxiety show up in my body, what is it telling me, and how do I react to the messages it’s giving me? How would I prefer to respond instead? It’s all up to you. You are laying new tracks in your brain for an easier tax season next year.
Often times, our body is telling us to slow down, pause, breath, get help, or maybe do a gratitude practice. A good way to honor your body’s intelligence is to keep coming back to the breath, noticing your back against the chair, or feet on the ground.
Experts agree that improving your concentration begins with a healthy lifestyle, so avoid sudden high intakes of sugar (including alcohol) as it causes the blood sugar level to rise and then drop sharply, which can cause drowsiness. Get regular exercise. Drink plenty of water. Maintain regular bedtimes. If less sleep is required to get the work done, consider going to bed at your regular time but getting up earlier instead.
Keep your eye on the prize and, at least for a little while, keep your mind on those numbers. All of the prep work you’ve done thus far will pay off with a better attitude when you do get that time with friends and family!