It's Time to Change the Narrative in Accounting

We are addicted to negativity.

I hate this.

It is quietly damaging the accounting profession and we need to change it!

Everywhere I turn, from news headlines to LinkedIn posts, it's the same story—doom and gloom. This is true even in the accounting profession. And it’s no surprise: study after study shows that negative news sparks more reaction than positive stories. 

But here’s what most people miss—this relentless focus on what’s wrong is blinding us to what might be the most exciting moment in history for accounting professionals. Yes, I said it. Despite all the noise about AI, offshoring, M&A activity, and educational hurdles, we’re standing on the brink of unprecedented opportunity—yet many risk missing it because they’re too busy doom-scrolling.

What once was a quiet profession now has podcasts, YouTube channels, and thriving online communities that inspire and challenge us to grow. These platforms provide education, connection, and a chance to elevate our work—and I’m all in.

But here's my frustration: too often, these platforms emphasize what’s “going wrong” with conflicting narratives for almost every issue:

• "AI will replace accountants" <> "AI doesn’t solve capacity problems"
• "The 150-hour rule is killing the profession" <> "It's too easy to become a tax preparer"
• "Offshore labor is taking our jobs" <> "Offshore labor isn’t effective"
• "Accountants don’t make enough money" <> "Firm owners and partners make too much"
• "Accounting tech is underdeveloped" <> "Tech startups overpromise and underdeliver"
• “Clients don’t appreciate accountants enough” <> “Accountants have too many clients”

Sure, some of these concerns are valid, and there’s room for improvement. But what’s missing from the conversation is that each of these challenges represents an incredible opportunity for the accounting profession.

I truly believe we are in the golden age of accounting. There’s never been a better time to be a professional in this field—or to be building for it. It might take effort to cut through the noise, but the opportunities and positive trends are right in front of us, ready to be embraced.

I get it—positivity may not drive clicks, but I’m shining a light on it anyway. It’s critical for those already in the profession, those entering it, those building for it, and those investing in it to recognize how strong the future really is.

Here are five reasons why I believe accounting professionals have never had it better:

1. Strong Market: The demand for accounting services has never been higher, while the supply of professionals has dwindled. This gap is driving higher fees, better compensation, and more profitable firms, all while fostering deeper, less transactional client relationships. It’s a win-win for those who take advantage of it.
2. AI and Automation: AI isn’t a threat—it’s reshaping accounting for the better. By automating routine tasks, AI is allowing accountants to focus on strategic planning, advisory roles, and deeper client relationships. The future of accounting isn’t about replacement; it’s about elevation.
3. Unprecedented Investment: The accounting industry is in the midst of a financial boom, with significant investments flowing into both firms and technology. Sure, not every investment will succeed, but the innovation, growth, and opportunity being created are undeniable.
4. Remote Work: Remote work has transformed accounting, offering unprecedented access to global talent. While the profession is still finding its balance between in-person and remote work, accountants now enjoy a level of control over their work and life that was unthinkable just a decade ago.
5. Entrepreneurial Opportunity: As an accounting entrepreneur, this one hits home. Technology, a thriving market, and ample financial backing have opened the door for aspiring professionals to build their own firms. Whether you want to be a solopreneur or build the next Top 100 firm, the barriers to entry have never been lower.

The opportunities are vast, and it's time to change the narrative.

Let’s focus on the positives, the potential, and the progress. 

What would you add to this list?

#futureoftax #accounting #AI #positivechange