Originally Posted by SkyHigh (Post 515854)

At least an accountant can get up to use the restroom once in a while without having to ask for permission.

SkyHigh

Originally Posted by RXS676 (Post 515989)

In all seriousness, CPA work isn't just boring. It's TEDIOUS. Imagine having to count the number of pixels on each row of the CRT screen for those 5-16 hours. And if you're incorrect you can be fired.

Sometimes it's like that.

Originally Posted by SkyHigh (Post 516352)

I asked a roofer how he could be so happy breaking his back everyday on hot roofs. He told me that if you stick with any job for at least three years you will become accustomed to the hardships and a master at the job. And from that point on it does not really seem like work at all. I have found the same thing of other grueling professions that outwardly seem like torture however the workers seem to happily do it day after day.

People can condition themselves to just about any job so why not pick one that offers the best pay and quality of life combination? It is a fallacy to think that you can get something for nothing. There is no such thing as a fun and easy job that comes without a significant down side. Everything has is consequences and sacrifices. In accounting you pay up front. Not one considers it to be fun however accountants can be well paid and get to live a normal life.

In time accounting will become as interesting to the worker as just about anything else.

SkyHigh

Originally Posted by Ski Patrol (Post 516397)

I remember a study I read in college about professions and the happiness factor associated with them. The study looked at all aspects pay, work schedule, days off, overtime, job satisfaction, fullfillment etc. Accountants ranked among the highest. Seems like what the job lacked in "sexy" appeal it made up for it in lifestyle. Unfortunately I'm a much better pilot then a paper pusher.

Originally Posted by SkyHigh (Post 516405)

I use to think the same thing of myself. You might be surprised at how your life might change if you were to give another path a try.

SkyHigh

Originally Posted by bryris (Post 512657)

I submitted my resignation from my regional airline job yesterday. I've been sitting on the fence about whether I want to do this job for nearly as long as I've been doing it. I've enjoyed the positives very much (and there are many) and have loathed the negatives (there are also many).

With hiring all but ceased for the next 3-4 years, little to no movement, continued low pay, more and more contract negotiation stalling, domicile transfer to a more difficult airport (commuting), pending furlough notice, I have decided at a minimum that this industry isn't the place for me for the next 2-3 years. Its not so much a decision about whether I want to be a career pilot or not, but rather when sinking, as I am now, what is the best use of my time. I can continue to sit right seat as I have been, on reserve, or at least VERY junior, minimum days off, junior assignments, etc. Or I can quit, be at home, not commute anymore, and work on something that has incredible marketability and is largely recession proof.

I have successfully registered for the first set of classes required to prepare myself to sit for the CPA exam in late 2009 or early 2010. Having that credential in my cap can do nothing but open slews of doors for me, in aviation (especially the business side), or otherwise.

A certified professional in two wholly separate fields is a pretty cool place to be. Lots of work ahead though! 2009 is going to be a tough year - but very rewarding, I am sure.

So, honey, I'll be home for Christmas this year!

Originally Posted by Lone Palm (Post 517172)

I have quite a few friends that went the CPA route and from what they tell me, none of them are happy with what they are currently doing. Most of them work for big accounting firms which pay very well, but they end up working very long hours (well past the 9-5 and weekends off schedule). They are constantly inundated with tedious tasks and practically have no life during tax season. Also, if you do go to a big accounting firm, you WILL be traveling and not at home every night. Most of these big firms have clients all over the U.S. so you can expect to be living in a hotel for a month at a time during various times of the year. To each their own though......................good luck!

Originally Posted by Lone Palm (Post 517172)

I have quite a few friends that went the CPA route and from what they tell me, none of them are happy with what they are currently doing. Most of them work for big accounting firms which pay very well, but they end up working very long hours (well past the 9-5 and weekends off schedule). They are constantly inundated with tedious tasks and practically have no life during tax season. Also, if you do go to a big accounting firm, you WILL be traveling and not at home every night. Most of these big firms have clients all over the U.S. so you can expect to be living in a hotel for a month at a time during various times of the year. To each their own though......................good luck!