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6a0133f5884316970b0264e2de96f9200dOf the many lessons 2020 has taught us, one is the importance of self-care. We are often so busy making sure we take care of the things around us that we bypass taking care of ourselves. In our efforts to make sure our employers, clients, children, parents and pets have what they need to thrive, we can overlook our health and happiness.

As we wrapup Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I urge you not to make this mistake. Being a two-time breast cancer survivor, I cannot stress enough the importance of early cancer detection — it saves lives. I encourage you to prioritize your well-being and get your screening on time. If you are already late, make an appointment today.

Some additional examples of how you can practice self-care as October ends include:

  • Set a reminder on your phone to perform a monthly breast self-exam.
  • Get ahead of it and schedule your next appointment for an annual clinical breast exam or mammogram.
  • Get information from your parents about your family’s cancer history, and share the information with your children.
  • Talk to your doctor about breast cancer risk factors and symptoms.

Of course, there are many other important health care screenings to discuss with your doctor. To make sure you and your loved ones stay healthy, you can practice self-care together!

For those of you who are leaders in the profession, it is important to discuss self-care and well-being in general with your staff and to lead by example. Younger professionals look to you for guidance on how to act, so “talk the talk” and “walk the walk” when it comes to taking good care of yourself. If you are a young professional, establish good habits that will last throughout your career. Make time now for routine health care checkups.

Regardless of whether you are an experienced professional or just getting started — whatever your practice area or where you live — take time for yourself and your well-being. While Breast Cancer Awareness Month may be ending, your health should always be a priority.

Tracey Golden, CPA, CGMA, Chair of the American Institute of CPAs, Chair of the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants

Originally published by AICPA.org