[alloverit]

Hello all!

I passed in the previous window and wanted to share something that saved me.

The CPA exam is a test for young people…not for those with a family and extended obligations.

So with that said, I will tell you that I’m a 40 something year-old with a wife and two young children. My wife works full time as an RN…at night.

This post is about how NOT to neglect others while taking on this behemoth test. I’ll keep this as short as I can.

Assess those closest to you and what TRULY moves them. Start a tradition of doing something special with them once a week.

For me, I took my 6 year old to an old-style arcade for 45 minutes every Sunday afternoon. I spent 20-25 minutes a couple times a week listening to my 12 year old’s music with her and expressing sincere interest.

I talked to my wife and ONLY listened once or twice a week no matter what she wanted to discuss, and I made it a point to take everyone out to eat once a week.

Now you might be thinking, “that sounds like a lot of time”. But the truth is that I quickly realized that the quality of the 4-5 hours a week was SOOOO worth it. AND I was able to focus on studying even better…because I had no guilt (and I also had to make up the 4-5 hours!).

When I was finished, not one single person expressed relief. They were happy, but it wasn’t extreme joy. At first that hurt. But then I realized, I had intentionally created it!. I made them a part of my life in such a way that they felt loved and important throughout…they weren’t starved for attention and didn’t notice all the “extra” they did while I was studying.

Just food for thought…

Good luck to all those still studying.

[Becca]

I needed to read this – it was a slap in the face for me. I haven’t neglected time with our daughter; even though she’s only 19 months and won’t remember this stressful time, I don’t want to miss out on playing with her and being there for her at every stage. But, I do know that I have neglected my husband, and this process is taking a toll on our marriage. We both know this is a temporary situation, and that the benefit will outweigh this awful time. But, you are SO right that relationships are far more important than these tests. Thank you.

[MIsconnie]

Great advice for every candidate. Congratulations on passing!

[PDiddy2000]

Congrats on passing!! Very great lesson and perspective. I would also add don't sacrifice your health either. Take time to maintain a workout schedule. Although you may have to scale your workouts back a little, it's important to stay active. You don't have to gain 20 lbs during your CPA exam experience.

[Jim]

That is one of the best post I've read on here.

also, @PDiddy2000 that is good advice! I had such a hard time doing that because when i would go the gym I cant cut back on my work out(im one of those people that is all or nothing), so i ended up staying at the gym and neglecting studying. What ended up working for me was just running, it helped me really clear my mind and when i got back to studying that day it was like a refresh button. Working out can really prevent burning yourself out.

Aud- 79 Expired retaken November 19th (get score on Dec 8th)
BEC- 81 8/20/2014
REG- 79 7/13/2013
FAR- Jan 9th

[alloverit]

@PDiddy2000,

Most candidates are going to do what they can for themselves. Unfortunately, most never have or will exercise but that is important.

Anyway, just wanted to share something about the other people in a candidates life…those who still need to love and feel loved.

[Tim]

@Jim

Completely agree on the running. Running 2-3 times a week clears your head, gives you more energy and just increases your mood in general so the whole process doesn't suck so much.

[Kimberly]

Thank you for this. This has been the hardest journey for me, as it has for many. This perspective is truly helpful, thank you.

[Author]

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