ENDURANCE
As a VAT specialist, I try to stay in shape—both physically and mentally. The physical part ranges from a brisk walk to the coffee machine to proper outdoor activity like biking or jogging. Mentally, nothing keeps the brain fitter than the daily workout called VAT.
I’ve picked up running again recently, and I must admit—it’s not quite as smooth as it used to be. Where I once ran 10 miles (16 km) in 90 minutes—from Amsterdam to Zaandam, no less—I now struggle to complete 5 km in under 45. The silver lining? I get to enjoy the scenery a lot more. And for much longer, while breathing like a locomotive and with a heart rate that defies medical advice.
Still, somewhere between gasps for air and awkward strides, I started pondering how running and VAT actually have quite a bit in common. At first glance, they seem miles apart. But the deeper I jog into the thought, the stronger the analogy becomes.
Take the terrain, for starters. Runners face slopes, bumps, and unexpected turns. In VAT, it’s the same: a regulatory marathon with uphill challenges—registration hurdles, compliance detours, and ever-changing rules. Both demand stamina, discipline, and a good GPS.
And just like sticking to the trail matters in running, sticking to the rules matters in VAT. Stray too far and you’re risking a twisted ankle—or worse, a VAT audit. Knowing the route, and respecting its contours, is half the battle.
But let’s not forget the joy of the journey—whether on the trail or through the tax code. Runners seek out new paths; businesses explore new markets. VAT may pose challenges, but it also opens doors. With the right preparation and a bit of warm-up (read: solid planning and sound advice), VAT doesn’t have to be a burden. It can be a tool—a springboard to your long-term goals.
So whether you’re tightening your laces or reconciling your ledgers, may your journey—physical or fiscal—be steady, rewarding, and maybe even joyful. Just remember to stretch.