Balancing Work, Life, and CMA® Exam Prep

Leveraging the Workplace

After a full day of work, coming home and studying nonstop might feel impossible — and you're right. This approach leads to burnout. Instead, shift your mindset and think about how you can use your time at work to your advantage.

Here are some practical ways to maximize your time on the job — because advancing your career is likely one of the main reasons you're pursuing CMA certification in the first place.

Ask Your Employer for Support

Your employer can be a pivotal partner in your CMA journey if you allow them to be. Schedule a meeting with your supervisor or HR department to discuss your goals, explain how earning the CMA certification benefits the organization, and explore the support your company or firm can provide. Highlight the skills you'll gain, such as strategic decision-making and advanced financial management, and how these can directly contribute to company success.

Don't hesitate to request flexible work arrangements or financial assistance for exam fees and study materials. Many employers have professional development budgets and happily support certifications such as the CMA for their employees.

Propose a clear plan outlining your study schedule, preparation needs, and how you'll manage work responsibilities during this time. If you ask directly, you might be surprised at the resources and connections available. Involving your employer in your journey aligns your goals with organizational objectives, creating a mutually beneficial partnership.

Implement Micro-Learning Strategies

Optimize opportunities for micro-learning to avoid cramming long study sessions during precious downtime hours. Consider using your commute to listen to CMA lectures or practice recalling key concepts.

Mobile apps with flashcards or quick quizzes are great for brief study sessions during breaks or idle moments in the elevator or commute. Incorporating short, focused sessions into your routine helps you maintain steady progress without studying around the clock.

Explore our UWorld Accounting - Exam Prep mobile app for on-the-go learning.

Network in the CMA Community

CMA certification is an esteemed credential that connects you to a global community of accountants and financial professionals. Your company is not the only resource you have for connections and support.

Seek networking opportunities to connect with accounting professionals who have been in your shoes and may have industry-specific advice about the CMA certification process. These events offer workshops and keynote speakers to guide and motivate you as you prepare for exam day.

Key events for CMA certifying professionals:

• IMA Annual Conference and Expo: This prominent event draws more than 800 attendees and features educational workshops and valuable networking opportunities.
• Local IMA chapter events: These gatherings offer Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credit programs, mentorship opportunities, and community service initiatives.
• CMA-specific webinars offered by universities: Many universities with esteemed accounting and finance programs host open webinars. Contact a specific educational institution to learn more.
• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) events: AICPA organizes several conferences, including the widely attended AICPA ENGAGE, which brings together over 4,000 accounting and finance professionals from varied backgrounds.

Online platforms including LinkedIn also offer opportunities to join discussions, share experiences, and build relationships with others. Networking enhances your CMA study experience and lays the groundwork for future career opportunities in accounting and finance.2

Balancing Other Aspects of Life

Your life doesn't pause when you begin studying for the CMA. Maintaining a healthy balance between CMA preparation, work, and personal responsibilities requires acknowledging and prioritizing the other important aspects of your life that still need your attention — and embracing them.

By making time for your physical health, mental well-being, and social connections, you'll allow yourself to recharge and approach your studies with renewed energy and focus. Neglecting these areas can lead to fatigue, decreased productivity, and unnecessary stress.

Remember that the CMA is just one part of your journey. By nurturing all aspects of your life, you'll be better equipped to stay motivated, handle challenges, and bring your best self to the exam and your career.

Prioritize Your Physical Health

Your physical health is critical to successful exam preparation. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep contribute to enhanced focus, better information retention, and sustained energy levels during study sessions.3

Healthy habits to adopt:

• Incorporate regular exercise: You don't have to run a marathon. Take short walks, do desk stretches, or stand while reading to stay active between study sessions.
• Maintain a balanced diet: Eat nutritious meals that fuel your brain, including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates.
• Stay hydrated: Fill a water bottle at the beginning of each study session and try to finish it before you finish your session.
• Prioritize sleep: Resist the urge to sacrifice rest for study. Aim for 7-8 hours of quality rest each night to ensure memory consolidation and recovery.
• Take regular breaks: Follow the "45/15" rule — study for 45 minutes, then take a 15-minute break to stretch, move, or do light exercises.

Lean on Your Social Network

While it's true that your social priorities may shrink during this focused study period, cutting them out entirely isn't in your best interest. Avoid the urge to neglect your social circle to study more.

Instead, pay attention to how many people want to support you on your CMA journey. Let them know why the CMA certification is important to you, how it will impact your time and energy this season, and how they can help you stay sane and fulfilled.

Tell your friends and family that you'll be busier than usual during this time. Being upfront about your schedule helps them understand your availability and makes your time together more meaningful. When you can spend time with loved ones, step away from the CMA and be fully present. Taking this break from studying will help you recharge and return to your preparation with renewed energy and sharper focus.

Regular social interactions, especially face-to-face interactions, offer emotional support, help you avoid feelings of isolation, and give you a much-needed mental break from intense study schedules. By prioritizing meaningful engagement with others, you can recharge, share challenges, build resilience, and feel less alone as you navigate this challenging certification process.⁴

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Tending to your mental health matters when studying for an exam as rigorous as the CMA. Incorporating habits such as mindfulness, journaling, and visualization can help you manage stress, build confidence, and maintain focus during your studies.

Mental health strategies to adopt:

• Practice relaxation techniques: Try deep breathing, meditation, or other stress-relief methods to maintain mental clarity.
• Engage in activities you enjoy: Set aside time for hobbies or interests you love to maintain balance during CMA study.
• Schedule "worry time": Allocate a specific time each day to address exam-related concerns so anxiety doesn't spill over into other parts of your day.
• Visualize exam success: Spend a few minutes imagining yourself confidently answering questions and performing well on exam day to build self-assurance and reduce stress.
• Journal regularly: Write down your thoughts or goals to process feelings and track your progress as you prepare.

A balanced approach to mental health will help you stay motivated and avoid burnout as you work toward becoming a CMA-certified professional.