“To optimize potential, we must train ourselves in a whole person, balanced manner.” ~Mark Divine, former Commander Navy SEALs
The highest aim in life is for each of us to realize our full potential. This means to become the very best version of ourselves. How do we do that? As Mark Divine stated above, we begin by recognizing that we need to develop our “whole” person, and this can only be done by committing to balance a few key areas of your life.
If you are having success at work, but your relationships with your family are failing, you are not thriving. Or, if you have meaningful relationships but your work life is meaningless or distressful, you will have a hard time flourishing. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely said: “One man cannot do right on one department of life whilst he is occupied in doing wrong in any other department. Life is one indivisible whole.”
Lawyer and law student work-life balance is a topic that has been gaining increasing attention. In fact, the phrase “work-life balance” is one of the most searched terms on Google. Lawyers and law students alike are known for working long hours, and this can take a toll on their personal lives. In order to maintain a healthy balance, lawyers and law students can take the following three practical steps to manage their time effectively and prioritize their well-being.
First, work-life balance starts with setting clear boundaries. This includes setting specific times for when work should be done, and when it should be set aside. This can be achieved by setting defined working hours, and making sure that time outside of those hours is dedicated to personal activities. Additionally, lawyers and law students should also make sure to take regular breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout and fatigue.
Second, the next step to maintaining a good work-life balance is to prioritize self-care. This includes taking care of your physical and mental health, through regular exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep. Additionally, lawyers and law students should also make sure to take time for relationships and other activities that they enjoy, to help them relax and recharge.
Third, you should use effective time management to ensure a good balance between work and personal life. Lawyers and law students should make sure to prioritize their tasks and plan their day to make sure that you are allocating time for your health, relationships, and work.
Additionally, lawyers should also make use of technology and other tools to help them stay organized and manage their time well. For example, if I have a dentist appointment, then I put it in my calendar and don’t miss it. Along those lines, I treat my workouts the same way. I make an appointment to exercise and keep that commitment to myself.
Even if we use the above three practices, it may still not be enough. A growing trend in the legal field is the increased use of flexible working arrangements. This includes remote working, part-time working, and job sharing. These arrangements can help lawyers to better manage their time and balance their work and personal lives. It is important for lawyers to have open communication with their employer about their needs and for the employer to understand the importance of work-life balance for their employees.
In short, lawyer and law student work-life balance is a crucial aspect of maintaining a healthy and fulfilling career. You should take steps to set clear boundaries, prioritize self-care, and use time manage tools to effectively run your day, as well as make use of flexible working arrangements where possible. By making a conscious effort to maintain a good balance between work and personal life, lawyers and law students can avoid burnout, improve their overall well-being, and be more successful at their work.