Owning Our Expertise and Embracing Well-Being
This year’s NZQBA Bookkeepers Conference in Auckland was nothing short of a revitalizing experience. It was all about stepping up, owning our skills, and taking care of ourselves—without any of the usual guilt that comes from juggling work, life, and everything in between.
Networking: From Nerves to Genuine Connection
Let’s be real—networking can be a little daunting. The thought of introducing yourself, explaining your business, and swapping stories can trigger those conference nerves. But this year’s conference had a welcoming vibe, making it easy for everyone to connect and share ideas. With a lineup of 10 inspiring speakers—led by the fantastic Natalie Tolhopf—and 28 exhibitors showcasing the latest and greatest for bookkeepers, there was plenty to dive into. Even though there wasn’t enough time to see every stand, we managed to make some meaningful connections, pick up some goodies, and have some real conversations.
Owning Our Value: We Are Enough
A standout theme this year was simple but powerful: we are enough. Bookkeepers are the unsung heroes of so many businesses, and it’s time we start believing it. The speakers didn’t focus on what we could do better—they focused on acknowledging that what we do already matters. It was a refreshing shift away from self-critique, with a clear message: stop doubting your skills and own your expertise. We are a crucial part of the businesses we manage, and it’s time to celebrate that.
Real Stories, Real Success: A Human Approach
What really hit home this year were the stories. These weren’t just success stories—they were real, honest accounts of the highs and lows of building a career. The speakers shared their own doubts, failures, and messy moments, which made them all the more relatable. It turns out, even the most successful among us have faced setbacks, uncertainty, and moments of feeling like they weren’t enough. Each speaker had their own way of coping—whether it was through solid systems, habits, or just sheer perseverance—and their stories turned a room of 200 professionals into a tight-knit community.
Mental Well-Being Takes Center Stage
Mental well-being was front and center this year, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. Let’s face it—balancing work, family, and life can feel like a never-ending circus. The speakers gave some solid, practical tips to manage it all: setting firm boundaries, prioritizing what truly matters, and finding what recharges you—whether it’s a morning run, meditation, or a good book. A favorite takeaway? “Keep your head where your feet are”—a powerful reminder to stay present and be in the moment, no matter what’s happening around you.
Self-Care Is the New Success
This year’s conference wasn’t just about becoming better at what we do. It was about remembering that we are already good enough. It was about taking a step back, taking care of ourselves, and understanding that success isn’t just about skills or knowledge—it’s about showing up as your best self. That means prioritizing self-care without feeling selfish about it. It means treating ourselves with the same kindness and encouragement we’d give to others.
The 2024 NZQBA Bookkeepers Conference left everyone buzzing with a renewed sense of purpose—not just for our work, but for how we live our lives. It was a chance to reconnect, get inspired, and remember that we’re all in this together. At the end of the day, it's not just about the numbers we manage—it's about finding balance, embracing our worth, and believing that we are enough just as we are.
This year’s conference was a celebration of the work we do, the skills we have, and the people we are. Here’s to owning it, every step of the way!
