#179 April 4th, 2025
Blake Carroll, CPA
PwC People Team - Manager | Helping Aspiring CPAs Navigate the CPA Exam with Confidence
In this article, Cal Newport explains that our tendency to procrastinate isn’t simply about laziness but is rooted in our evolutionary past. He paints a vivid picture of our caveman ancestors, whose brains were wired to seek immediate rewards and quick results. We still have this design, and it clashes with today’s need for prolonged focus and deep work. The takeaway is that procrastination is a natural challenge rather than a moral failing, which can help us approach our habits with more understanding. By recognizing our biological wiring, we can begin to design strategies that work with our nature instead of against it.
Newport then examines how modern distractions like smartphones and constant online content amplify our innate impulses. He argues that these external factors make it all too easy to delay important tasks and lose focus on long-term goals. The key insight is to be aware of how our environment plays into our natural tendencies, which is the first step toward reclaiming control over our time. The practical advice is to intentionally create a workspace that minimizes distractions, allowing us to focus deeply on our work.
He offers strategies for overcoming procrastination by breaking tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces and establishing routines that foster a steady work rhythm. Newport recommends scheduling dedicated blocks of time where distractions are minimized. This paves the way for deeper engagement and productivity. This method helps counteract the brain’s natural desire for quick rewards by gradually building the capacity for sustained attention. The takeaway is that structure and consistency can help rewire our habits over time.
Newport emphasizes that while our brains are evolutionarily inclined to seek short-term satisfaction, we can train ourselves to appreciate long-term gains. He encourages experimentation with different techniques until you find what resonates. Each day is an opportunity to improve your focus. The article ultimately serves as a reminder that small, consistent changes can build a lasting ability to overcome procrastination, allowing us to achieve our goals with more ease and less self-criticism.
This article takes a reflective look at how the lessons and coping mechanisms from childhood continue to influence us well into adulthood. It begins by acknowledging that many of the survival strategies we developed as kids, both positive and negative, can linger in our behavior. The author invites us to look back on those early experiences. While they once protected us, they may now hold us back. The practical takeaway is to recognize these patterns so we can decide which ones to keep and which to leave behind.
The article then shifts to offering advice for adapting those childhood strategies to suit adult life. It suggests that while some approaches may have served us in our younger years, they might need a fresh perspective or modification to fit our current challenges. The insight here is to blend the creativity and resilience of youth with the maturity and insight gained over time. One key takeaway is to reassess your old habits and intentionally evolve them to better support your present and future.
Next, the article delves into the emotional barriers that often persist from childhood experiences. It highlights how lingering fears and unresolved issues can hinder our personal and professional growth, so we must confront and work through them. By facing these emotional hurdles, we can free ourselves to adopt more empowering and productive behaviors. The actionable advice is to invest time in self-reflection and seek support whether through journaling, therapy, or candid conversations with trusted friends.
In its closing thoughts, the piece stresses the importance of self-compassion during the transition from childhood into adult responsibilities. It reassures us that while some old habits may be hard to shake, every step toward self-improvement counts. The article encourages a mindset of patience and continuous learning. We can treat our past as a foundation for growth rather than a chain holding us back. The final takeaway is to approach your journey of self-improvement with kindness and an open mind, allowing gradual change to lead to lasting positive transformation.
This article offers a heartfelt reminder that our value isn’t tied to perfection but lies in simply being who we are. It starts by challenging the relentless societal pressure to constantly improve, urging us instead to recognize that our worth is inherent. The message is clear: striving for perfection can lead to unnecessary stress and self-criticism, while embracing our flaws fosters genuine contentment. The practical takeaway is to start by celebrating your authentic self, rather than chasing an elusive ideal.
The author addresses the harsh inner critic that often fuels the drive for perfection. It explains how this internal voice can sabotage our self-esteem and hinder personal growth. By learning to quiet that critic and replace it with self-compassion, we can create a healthier inner dialogue. The advice here is to practice regular self-affirmations and mindfulness, turning moments of self-doubt into opportunities for growth.
The article continues by offering simple ways to shift focus from perfectionism to self-acceptance. It suggests that by redefining success to include progress and personal well-being, we can lessen the burden of constant self-improvement. This approach encourages us to appreciate our journey and the small victories along the way, rather than fixating solely on outcomes. The key takeaway is to allow yourself the freedom to be imperfect and view mistakes as part of the learning process.
Finally, the article closes on a reassuring note, emphasizing that true happiness comes from embracing who we are at our core. It encourages readers to let go of the need for external validation and instead trust in their intrinsic worth. The actionable insight is to make a daily commitment to self-acceptance, fostering a mindset that prioritizes inner peace and authenticity. By doing so, we can live more joyfully and confidently in every aspect of our lives.
This article presents an ambitious blend of ideas aimed at achieving excellence across both professional and personal realms. It begins by stressing that mastery is less about innate talent and more about consistent, deliberate practice over time. The narrative explains that true expertise comes from persistence and a willingness to push through challenges. The takeaway here is to commit to daily efforts that incrementally enhance your skills, turning practice into a habit of excellence.
Next, the article explores the relationship between financial success and personal fulfillment. It challenges the conventional notion that money alone brings happiness, arguing instead that true satisfaction comes from mastering your craft. The idea is that financial rewards naturally follow when you’re deeply engaged in work that aligns with your passion. A key insight is to focus on honing your skills and letting monetary success be a byproduct of genuine expertise and dedication.
The discussion then turns to the psychological aspects of achieving long-term success. It emphasizes that happiness isn’t a mere consequence of external achievements but is closely linked to the internal journey of growth and learning. The article encourages readers to embrace challenges and view setbacks as valuable learning opportunities rather than insurmountable failures. The actionable advice is to maintain a resilient mindset, where every obstacle is seen as a stepping stone toward mastery.
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In its final section, the piece advocates for a balanced approach to success, cautioning against the perils of burnout. It reminds us that even in the pursuit of excellence, it’s essential to make time for rest, reflection, and personal well-being. The practical takeaway is to build a daily routine that supports both intense work and meaningful downtime, ensuring that the journey toward mastery remains sustainable and enjoyable over the long term.
Announcement!
I’m thrilled to announce that I’m launching a brand-new CPA Exam Coaching Group!
This isn’t your typical study group. It's a high-impact, community-driven experience where we’ll review study skills, share actionable tips, and hold each other accountable.
What to Expect:
• Four 1-hour online sessions each month
• Several pieces of coaching and guidance throughout the day on various topics
• Daily check-ins via our group message room for motivation and quick feedback
• Topics like goal-setting, study planning, time management, having the right mindset, and beating procrastination
Spots are limited, and I’m opening enrollment now. Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks. We are targeting starting the group in May. For more information, pleas email me at blakecarrollcpa@gmail.com.
I can’t wait to help you ace the CPA exam!
CPA tip of the week: Most CPA candidates study the way they did in college: passively.
Re-reading notes
Watching lectures without engagement
Highlighting everything in sight
That might have worked for past tests and last-minute cramming, but it won’t get you through the CPA exam.
Instead, focus on active learning:
Do practice questions daily because this is how the CPA exam actually tests you.
Explain concepts out loud. If you can’t teach it, you don’t fully understand it.
Review your mistakes deeply because learning from errors is where real growth happens.
Studying isn’t just about putting in hours. It’s about studying the right way!