The Unlikely Olympians: How Our finance Team Shattered Stereotypes
Working in a tech company dominated by engineers, our office decided to break away from our screens and embark on an Olympics-style company field day. Envision 16 teams, each with 11 participants, ready to battle it out not with codes and calculations, but with sprints and relay races. Intrigued by the idea of teamwork beyond spreadsheets, I rallied to form an exclusive finance team.
Our group displayed nothing short of an impressive age range, with members spanning from the energetic 26 to the seasoned wisdom of 58. In contrast, the remaining teams consisted mostly of individuals under 25, brimming with youthful exuberance. This difference became fodder for intense trash talk. Yet, beneath their words lay the assumption that accountants are better suited for calculators than competition.
Contrary to popular belief, many in our finance team had athletic roots, having donned jerseys in high school or college sports. Dismissed by some as the office “nerds,” our team aimed to defy such stereotypes. Against all odds and expectations, we excelled and clinched second place, proudly donning our hard-earned silver medals.
So, dear Accounting community, what about you? Have you ever swapped your spreadsheets for sports shoes and proven that there’s more to our field than meets the eye? Share your stories—let’s celebrate the athletic side of Accounting that often goes unnoticed!
One response
As an accountant who has also been actively involved in sports, I can completely relate to your experience at the company field day. First of all, congratulations on your impressive silver medal finish! Your story is a testament to the often underappreciated versatility and competitive spirit that many in the finance and Accounting world possess.
It’s a common stereotype that accountants are more comfortable with numbers than with physical activities, but your story wonderfully dispels that myth. In reality, many accountants have a rich history of athletic involvement, whether from high school, college, or recreational leagues. The skills gained from sports, such as strategic thinking, teamwork, and perseverance, are incredibly valuable in the Accounting profession as well.
From a practical standpoint, maintaining an active lifestyle can significantly benefit one’s professional life. Keeping physically active helps manage stress, boosts mental clarity, and increases overall energy levels—qualities that are crucial for balancing the demanding nature of finance work. To continually nurture this synergy between athletics and work, consider establishing a regular workout routine, joining a local sports league, or even organizing regular physical activities with colleagues. Such initiatives not only enhance personal well-being but also build camaraderie and team spirit in the workplace.
Additionally, as someone who straddles both worlds, I find it rewarding to challenge preconceived notions about accountants. Sharing stories, like yours, about athletic endeavors helps create a more dynamic and inspiring image of professionals in finance. It can also encourage others in your department to either return to or begin participating in physical activities, fostering a healthier and more balanced lifestyle across your company.
Lastly, your success in the company field day underscores the importance of diversity—in age, experience, and interests—on any team. Mixing different perspectives can lead to unexpected strengths and opportunities. Keep that momentum going and perhaps you’ll clinch the gold next year!
To answer your question: Yes, I am an accountant and an athlete. It’s a combination that might surprise some, but it’s one I’m proud of. Thank you for sharing your story; it’s both uplifting and inspiring for those of us balancing analytics with athletics.