[bobby]

I’m currently enrolled in a master’s of accounting program and working towards getting my CPA before starting my full-time job in May. Recently, I’ve been feeling really down about myself and with studying constantly.

Currently, my routine has been studying pretty much consisted of 30+ hours per week working on master’s classes and studying for the CPA. With that being said, I really haven’t had much time to get out and socialize with friends and meet new people, so I’ve been feeling really trapped in by it all and have become pretty negative about my routine as a whole. I want to be able to continue studying at a beneficial rate but also feel good about myself!

Anybody have advice on how to not lose my mind while studying and working on my master’s courses? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[CoachEmUp]

I study full time. I like to try to get in the gym at least 4-5 times a week. It gets you out of the house, even if you aren't talking to other people you're around them and it will have benefits when you sit down to study (exerting energy, etc).

If you aren't into working out then have a hobby. Cooking, grilling, even cleaning. There's always stuff to do around an apartment or house.

Overall I like to study 4-5 hours a day and I've found any more and I get burned out. Best of luck!

[itooshallpass]

I'm in a similar situation. I'm studying at least 40 hours per week. It can be really hard to stay focused and motivated. I like to get out and about as I can, I take my dog walking twice a day and other little things like a short shopping trip. When studying, I like to keep things mixed up in my routine. For example, after reading the textbook or reviewing notes for a while, I spend some time doing quizzes, then review flashcards, before going back to notes on a NEW topic. Changing activities and moving on at the right time helps keep my mind engaged.

It's also good to just take a break from time to time. Watch some tv or take a good nap. The way I see it is if you have so much time available to study, better to make good use out of less time than to take up the max amount of time and not be as productive as you can.

Best of luck to you… We're all in this together!

[Ana]

no advice just here to let you know you're not alone. I'm studying full time and at it for almost 2 years. For the past 5 months haven't worked either. It gets pretty boring, depressing, and lonely. My husband is the only person I pretty much talk to and see. I did end up going back to the gym and that helps.

[kdcpa]

@Bobby I am in the same situation. Studying masters program and being a full-time student is very challenging. Have multiple breaks in between your study time. Talking to your family members or closed ones during your free time will help you a lot.

[Anonymous]

As I have mentioned on other threads, you need to take long walks at least 4 days/nights a week. I try to walk 2 miles 5 days a week. It really does keep your head clear.
During the walks, don't think about your CPA studies. Don't listen to audios, don't have your flashcards with you, just use it as a time to clear out your brain for a while.
On weekends, it is advisable to not just do 10-12 hour marathons of studying. Work for 2 hours, then take another hour off. You can still do 10-12 hours for Sat and Sun, just not all at once.
You won't lose your mind unless you become so completely obsessed with it that you let it take over your whole existence. Actually some people do let it take them over completely.
And, they either do outstandingly well or crash and burn hard. No two people do this thing the same way. Finding what works for you and only you is the key to not losing your mind.
So, I hope you don't lose yours. One of my favorite sayings, “I have lost my head. Fortunately, I have another.”

[Anonymous]

That’s a really good question – no lie. This exam takes a toll on you both mentally and physically. This process is the most demoralizing sequence of events I have ever endured. However, I remind myself of the long term benefits and keep on pushing myself no matter what. Increasing my antidepressant and going for walks helps me.

Goodluck and know you are not alone. Stay strong my friend.

[nalratoss]

Go to spotify and listen to your favorite sound track

My favorite are Papa Roach playlist, Rock radio and Pop radio

It helps ease you up. But seriously, don't study too long per day

[Anonymous]

Well to be honest and in all seriousness you DO have to be a LITTLE crazy to pursue a career in accounting as a CPA.

Takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice that's for sure 😉

[Author]

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