Still Haven’t Done Taxes?

The tax deadline is fast approaching and many of us still haven't prepared our tax returns.  Why do we procrastinate and what can we do to get motivated and reduce our stress levels?   I did some research and want to share with you some of what I read.  The reasons for waiting until the last minute are varied.  Some people feel they work best under pressure.  Others fear or resent the IRS.  Some people are busy and/or disorganized.   And face it, doing taxes are not fun!  We can find many other things we'd rather do, right?   Rather than spend too much time analyzing WHY you haven't filed yet, let's focus on how to get them done.  Because once they're done and in the mail, THEN we can have fun doing the things we really like to do!   Experts say it helps to find an Accountability Buddy; someone who can check in on you and make sure you're getting your tax prep done.   They also suggest doing work in small segments:  maybe organize your receipts one night and your w-2s or 1099s another night.  If you use tax preparation software, take advantage of the fact you can enter information in bits and pieces.  It doesn't have to get done all in one sitting.   These computer programs are also recommended for people who have "math anxiety."  I've personally reduced my anxiety by turning the job over to a tax professional.   For me, it's worth the money.  But the accountant still requires all my information in an organized fashion so that's what I have to work on in the next few days.  Between family life, the DJ job and running my voiceover business, I have to make good use of the little free time I have; so that's going to require motivation, minimal distractions, and good mental and physical health.  Do you tend to eat chocolate when you're stressed and need a boost of energy?   I do.  Experts say candy is not the answer but rather, we should fuel up at regular intervals on fruit, nuts, and yogurt.   When you're feeling anxious, or your neck or eyes are tired from sitting at the computer or looking down at receipts, try stretching, deep breathing, or a little exercise.  This sounds like good advice, so I'm going to try to take all these suggestions, and report back to you, my Accountability Buddies, when I get everything finished.  Perhaps you can use the "comments" section to below to update all of us on YOUR progress.  Let's get focused and motivated to get our taxes done so we can start enjoying Spring without this dreaded deadline weighing on our shoulders. Good luck!