Law practice is often busy, stressful, and hectic on its own. Most lawyers know that lawyers often must do more than just practice law. Business development, networking, and community involvement are the extracurricular activities of a healthy law practice. This raises the question: how do you make time for these extras and still maintain well-being?
I talked about these ideas with some other high-achieving lawyers in a recent podcast interview. I am sharing it with you here today because it offers some good insights and tips.
Why Lawyers Take on Extra Projects
As I have shared over the years on this blog, I have a lot of extras on top of my law practice. I manage this blog, teach mindfulness, have a family, and practice law. Last year, I added another big role to this list when I edited a legal treatise for LexisNexis.
This may seem like a lot. In fact, many people tell me it sounds like a lot. Sometimes it feels that way, but I enjoy having multiple facets of my life. New experiences allow for the development of new skills. They also offer me a chance to meet new people by doing things I enjoy. This has helped develop business, cultivate a solid network, and create confidence in myself as a lawyer.
The podcast interview shared here reveals that a motivation to grow and experience new things is important for many lawyers. Many of us take on extra projects for professional and personal benefits.
How Can Lawyers Make Time for Extra Projects
The best way to answer this question is not to look for a one-size-fits-all solution. Most lawyers have to find a balance that works for them. Many of us must use our best judgment or trial and error to find this. That’s why I asked two of the lawyers who worked with me on the treatise to talk about this.
Paul Finamore and Caroline Berdzik are exceptional employment lawyers and active community leaders. They have a lot on their plates. When I approached them about authoring a chapter for the treatise, they both accepted.
In the interview, they both shared how they enlisted support from colleagues. They also explained how they blocked off time to complete the project. Finally, they shared that project leadership helped them comply with deadlines and get the work done.
Where and How to Learn More
You can learn more about the treatise here. It is a great resource for any lawyers who deal regularly with employment contracts.
If you want to listen to the full interview, you can find it on Apple Podcasts or the FDCC Speaks library here.
For more great interviews relating to lawyer well-being, check out the following episodes of FDCC Speaks:
- Why Lawyers Need Enlightened Self-Interest
- Understanding Dry January: A Lawyer’s Journey to Sobriety
Want to learn more about mindfulness and compassion? Check out my new book, How to Be a Badass Lawyer, for a simple guide to creating a meditation practice of your own in 30 days. And to share mindfulness with your little one, check out my new children’s book, Mommy Needs a Minute.
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