25 Questions Every Junior Accountant Should Ask Themselves

Stepping into the accounting profession can be a wild mix of imposter syndrome, spreadsheets, unexpected deadlines, and moments of real pride when something finally clicks. Whether you're one month in or about to wrap up your first few years, it’s easy to get caught in the “do” without pausing to think about the “why.”

But here’s a truth many seniors and partners will tell you: the people who rise fastest aren’t always the ones with the best marks or the strongest technical skills. They’re the ones who are curious, self-aware, and intentional about how they show up and grow.

Below are 25 questions every junior accountant should ask themselves to stay grounded and focused in the workplace. You won’t always have the answers, but the act of asking puts you ahead.

Self-Awareness & Confidence

1. Do I know why I have chosen to become an accountant?
   You don’t need to have it all figured out but knowing your purpose to help you power through and build motivation is a powerful staring point.

2. What part of my job energises me and what drains me?
   Notice your patterns. They’ll guide your future career choices.

3. Am I asking questions when I don’t understand something?
   Silence won’t protect you. Curiosity will accelerate you.

4. What’s one thing I’m proud of in the past month?
   Build confidence through small wins. You’re doing better than you think.

5. What’s one area I feel insecure about, and who can help me improve it?
   Identifying your gaps is brave. Acting on them is strategic.

Workplace Relationships

6. Do I have someone I trust enough to ask “dumb” questions?
   You’ll grow faster if you have a safe space to be unsure.

7. Have I introduced myself to someone outside of my immediate team?
   Careers are built on relationships, not just performance.

8. Do I understand how my work contributes to the bigger picture?
   Context turns tasks into meaning. Ask to see the client view.

9. Am I actively building a reputation as dependable and curious?
   Every email, every follow-up, every attitude. You're building a brand.

10. How would my manager describe me right now?
    If you’re not sure, ask. Feedback is a gift, not a threat.

Learning & Growth

11. Am I just doing tasks or learning why they matter?
    Understanding the “why” is what turns juniors into future advisors.

12. What’s one skill I want to master in the next 3 months?
    Specific goals make learning feel less overwhelming.

13. Have I asked for feedback in the last two weeks?
    Don’t wait for performance reviews. Make feedback a habit.

14. What gaps in my technical knowledge are slowing me down?
    Be honest here. Then make a plan.

15. Am I taking notes that future me can actually understand?
    Your future self will thank you during next year’s audit season.

Career & Capability Building

16. What industries or services do I enjoy working in most?
    This can help guide the kind of clients or niches you want to build around.

17. Am I working toward CA/CPA and do I know why?
    Don’t just tick the box. Know what it opens up for you.

18. What roles or pathways exist beyond junior accountant that interest me?
    Look ahead. The more you know, the more intentionally you can steer.

19. Have I taken time to speak to a Senior, Manager or Partner about their career path?
    You’ll be surprised how many will gladly share their journey with you.

20. Do I know how to communicate my value to others?
    Learning to talk about your work in clear, confident ways is a career superpower.

Balance & Sustainability

21. Am I setting healthy boundaries around work and life?
    Burnout isn’t a badge of honour. Sustainable energy = sustainable career.

22. How am I managing stress during deadline heavy weeks?
    Track your coping habits. Improve them as you grow.

23. Do I reflect on wins or just move straight to the next task?
    Take time to acknowledge progress. Celebration fuels momentum.

24. How do I protect my energy and motivation in this season?
    You can’t give your best if your tank is empty.

25. What would it look like for me to thrive in this role and not just survive?
    This is your career. Take ownership early.

These aren’t just questions for junior accountants, they’re questions for anyone building a meaningful career in a fast-moving profession. So don’t wait for permission. Ask more. Reflect often. And never forget that being thoughtful, intentional and self-aware is a competitive advantage.