It would be an understatement to say that being a legal professional is stressful. You are constantly under pressure to perform and achieve the highest standard. This includes keeping up with the latest law and procedure changes and responding to client requests and demands. In today’s “always-on” culture, missing a deadline or not responding to a customer’s request is impossible.
The fact that you have no control over many duties and responsibilities of practicing law adds to the stress. Professionally, you are valued by how many billable hours you have.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the constant pace of law practice and the endless list of tasks. As a lawyer, it’s also important to consider the impact of chronic stress on your health, both physically and psychologically. According to a Reuters survey, 66% said their experience in the legal field had negatively affected their mental health.
Are you an attorney experiencing the adverse effects of work-related stress? It’s time to reflect and consider ways to prioritize your well-being.
Changing your paradigm
Pause
You can become overwhelmed by the demands of your work. Take time each day to evaluate your feelings, both mentally and physically. Are you calm and focused on your work, or are you agitated and disorganized? Concentrating on your breathing is one of the most effective and easiest ways to calm the mind and the physical sensations associated with stress. Harvard Medical School says that shifting your attention and paying close attention to your breath triggers a relaxation response. Even if you practice deep breathing techniques for just a few moments each day, it can lower your blood pressure, reduce your heart rate and increase your overall feeling of calm.
Reclaim your time
Attorneys have a reputation for working long hours in the office. Even if you do not perform an 80-hour week, if your mind is consumed with work, not on family and friends, or enjoying life, something must change. It is essential to set boundaries between your personal and professional lives. This will allow you to spend more time with the people who matter to you and enjoy life.
Ask for help
In the past, attorneys have been expected to be highly intelligent, confident, and competent. Most attorneys tend to be competitive and perfectionists, and they are reluctant to admit they need help or don’t have the knowledge. These traits can cause attorneys to push themselves beyond their limits and burn out. Admitting you are vulnerable and don’t know everything can be liberating. This can also allow you to see obstacles in a different light and come up with new solutions that will benefit you and your company.
Avoid controllable stressors
Manageable stressors include scheduling time for you, staying committed, and setting boundaries. You can improve your health by controlling the stressors you perceive. It can also increase productivity and handle difficult situations with ease.
Reward yourself
Self-care can boost self-esteem, reduce anxiety and help you feel better. Self-care does not have to be selfish. It is an essential aspect of mental health and can create balance in your daily life. You can reward yourself in many ways, including a special treat or meal, a night with friends, or a relaxing massage. Finding meaningful ways to reward yourself can reduce stress and help you to have a positive outlook on the world.
Many law firms today realize that they must pay attention to the human side of their attorneys. Both from a business and human perspective, the stakes are too high. To compete and attract top talent and provide the answers and value clients need, firms must find new and innovative ways to deliver them. Learn more about how you can start bringing a more
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