The big picture

There are only 24 hours in a day and Clark Monson CPA, CA doesn’t take that for granted. Clark lists the following as just some of his hobbies: landscape photography, piano, guitar, mountain climbing, reading, and playing the cello—all while working as the Accounting Manager at Lancaster Capital Advisory Corp. and being an engaged husband and father!

Clark describes himself as someone who likes to have a lot going on. He credits his piano teacher mother and former all-state choir singer father for cultivating his passion for music at an early age. That nurtured desire for adventure and exploring new things is partly why he accepted a job opportunity in Calgary, and moved his family from Texas in 2014 to be closer to his in-laws and the Rockies, where he could enjoy mountain climbing and landscape photography.

The move to Canada came with the typical grind of a new job and stress. “I had to learn to put in long hours sometimes if I wanted to take time off,” says Clark.

However, Clark finds maintaining his hobbies benefits him professionally. The creativity he brings to photography or music translates well into his role as a CPA. “Creativity is an essential part of being a CPA,” he explains. “So much of what we do is about finding creative solutions to solve various business and client needs.”

If you are a busy CPA looking for a hobby, Clark recommends starting with what sparks your interest. “Once you find an interest, make time to learn about it,” he says. ”Also use the internet. It’s a great way to learn whatever you’re trying to do.”

However, Clark cautions against spending too much money upfront. When he started getting into photography, he purchased a cheap camera to practice and slowly upgraded his equipment as he fell more in love with the hobby.

When Clark camps or spends time in nature with his family, he is often the first to rise and the last to go to bed because of his pursuit of the next great shot. And while his sleep is some times sacrificed, the cost of pursuing his hobbies will always be priceless.

“When I’m out in the mountains, there’s a sense of contentment and gratitude that I live here, that I’m alive, and that I have the physical and mental capacities that I do,” he says. “It’s gratitude for everything I have and it’s good to be reminded of that.”