Before the end of this quarter- if focused and committed- what could be done?
Sure, October is almost done but I already completed a major goal this month! I'm going to keep this list fairly short since there are only so many things I can focus on if I want to get tangible results.
1. Pass All Three Parts of the EA Exam
Done!
I already finished the third and final part during October and am now waiting for IRS Form 23 to process so I can receive the Enrolled Agent license.
Now I need to try to keep my tax knowledge as sharp as possible to prepare for the upcoming tax season and for any possible job interviews.
2. Try to Reestablish My Network or Build a New Network
I've always been kind of a loner and was never good at maintaining connections with people. If I'm being honest, badgering old contacts who most likely forgot about me for advice and job leads is unlikely to lead anywhere except annoying a bunch of near strangers.
My best bet is probably to try to establish a new network. Joining The National Association of Enrolled Agents is more likely to connect me with relevant contacts in my area or online to talk to.
3. Research the Process of Starting a Solo Tax Practice
I know the first part is to become an authorized e-file provider and get an EFIN number. There are many other questions I still need to address:
Should I buy a dedicated work laptop?
What VPNs are recommended for security in filing client returns?
Which tax preparation software should I purchase? I have to consider price, ease of use, tech support, among other things.
How to effectively advertise to attract clients?
Do I buy liability insurance?
And many more...
4. Find Work for the 2025 Season
While opening my own solo practice is my ultimate goal, getting more experience working with high value clients is invaluable.
While I'm open to working for a large corporation, I'd prefer working in a smaller firm with an established CPA or EA so I can learn more about the day to day processes and techniques I'd have to master to run a viable practice of my own.
In theory, a large corporation has a higher ceiling in terms of job growth and earning potential, but my ultimate aim is to be free.
Free in the sense that I can move to another area without worrying about finding a new employer.
Free in the sense that I only have to worry about pleasing the clients and not the whims of an employer that only sees me as a disposable cog in a larger machine.
Free to know my success is determined mainly by my own efforts.
5. Lose 5 Pounds
Could I stand to lose more? Absolutely! However, the amount of weight I lose isn't as important as ensuring that I'm trending in the right direction. I can't tell my body how much weight to lose, I can only control my diet and exercise more to set up an incentive for my body to drop the excess weight.
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