Hi all
I spent most of my career in industry, but around two years ago I joined a small accounting practice as a bookkeeper. I thought it would be a good move but I’ve come to realise I really hate it
What gets to me most is the constant pressure every minute is tracked, and there’s a constant sense of falling behind. It’s incredibly stressful and, honestly, not rewarding
I’m curious—what’s your experience working in practice? Is this kind of pressure normal across most firms or is it just me

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welcome to accounting

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I worked for a world renowned research and development non-profit where I was the lead government billing specialist for over 20 years. I loved it. First I got sick, then my parents got sick so I retired to take care of them and myself. After they passed I was hoping to get back into accounting. After being out of it for 14 years I couldn’t get a job in accounting so I became a licensed property and casualty insurance agent. Love the customers, hate sales. Had barely passed my state exam, gotten my license, wrote a few policies and one month later the owner agent says he sold the business, gave us two weeks notice. Entire office out of a job. Now it’s been six weeks, not enough experience as an licensed P&C agent, so I haven’t had luck after applying for those type of jobs either, they all of course want someone with more experience. I really want to get back into accounting but despite my long-term employment in accounting, I can’t get a job in that either. I’m frustrated. I just need someone to give me a chance. Not sure what to do now except keep trying but I can’t go without an income much longer. Any suggestions?

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Welcome to public accounting. You do get used to it when it comes to tracking your time. The rest depends on how good you are with your technical and organizational skills.

The best part I feel like PA is good for me and my fam is flexibility. I could take 2-3 weeks off after my busy season ends and no one cares.

Good luck!

Not yet, give it time. My busy season starts after my busy season

My first job was a bookkeeper at a small firm, loved it, not stressful! Never got CPA due to untreated anxiety and other reasons, so appreciated that only 40 hrs/week expected and no timesheet/billables! Onto other firms, as a staff accountant/auditor, very long hours and some CPAs type-A, stressed out, while others kind, positive, easy going! You can find the right employer but it’s like finding a diamond in the rough, whether public or industry.

Dumb question, but what is “industry”. Seen it referred to as so many different jobs

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