Last year, I took a brave leap into the wild world of taxes, tackling both my business and personal ones for the very first time! It was like diving into a whirlpool of stress and discovery. It really did change my perspective on everything. Filing taxes feels like an immersive crash course in “America 101″—where you learn the ins and outs of industry classifications and sharpen your financial acumen.
Surprisingly, only a select few tackle their own taxes—but doing so feels like cracking open a treasure chest packed with real-world lessons in civics, business, and law. It’s everyday life turned into a masterclass. As much as I cherish formal education, I’ve discovered an entire universe of free knowledge just begging to be explored. A few years ago, when I was dabbling in selling houses, I felt that earning my real estate license gave me that “I’m officially adulting” feeling—especially diving into ethics. But learning the ins and outs of taxes? That was the real transformation. It reshaped how I handle money and responsibility, leveling me up in ways no classroom ever could.
So, if you haven’t tried preparing your own taxes you should. Additionally, I am a great listener. I have been around enough lawyers in New City during tax time and I learned a lot. Sadly, none of the cheat codes applied to me, but I have them in my mental rolodex for a rainy day. I was once asked if I ever regretted not jumping on an opportunity. Looking back, I would say leaving finance. I had really bad imposter syndrome because I was counting on my fingers and overspending at the sushi bar. It’s too late now. (and yes, it is) but I love the things that finance teaches you.
Embarking on tough tasks whether they are successful or not– is a reminder that you can do anything you set your mind too.
