There are certain parts of being a lawyer that are particularly difficult… Especially if you’re a caring lawyer.
The traditional business model is broken. If you’re trying to make it work, you know. You are very busy. Not serving your customers the way you want. You probably won’t impose fees that you know you could (or should).
Even if you’re making money, you’re struggling… To keep up… Constant worry… Anxiety and fear. You know it’s not supposed to be like this. It is true. It is not.
And you can do something about it. That is how:
1. Take 100% responsibility for your experience.
Yes, the legal business model that you have been taught and have been taught by every lawyer in town (who are also in their own way of fighting and conflicting, even if they are “successful”) is broken. And, it’s not your fault.
But, you can take 100% responsibility for making a change.
It won’t be the easiest thing you’ve ever done, but it won’t be the hardest either. And it will not be more difficult than what you are doing now. Plus, it will be sustainable and ensure you have a great income and a great life while feeling satisfied with your law degree for the rest of your life.
That’s worth the investment, isn’t it?
2. Stop blaming.
I see many lawyers do this. Instead of taking 100% responsibility for their own experiences, many attorneys will blame the economy, their fear, lack of money, their prospects, their staff, or their family for why they are not successful in their practice.
If you are having difficulties in your practice, you can change it no matter what your circumstances are right now. To do that, you have to stop blaming.
It is possible that we lawyers blame so much because success always came too easily, in a way. So when the struggle comes up, instead of feeling resourceful, she collapses into guilt and avoidance. It was definitely me for a while in my practice and it resulted in me being perpetually angry at my staff, confused why it wasn’t getting easier no matter how hard I worked, and almost at my breaking point.
Instead, what you can do now is recognize that every obstacle to your success is not something to blame (you don’t need to blame yourself or anyone else), but rather an opportunity to learn, grow, and expand. It is really a gift. Find that and you win the game, no matter what.
3. Recognize that there is always a breakdown before a breakthrough.
Most people are not successful. Why? Because they fail to overcome the collapse that always precedes a breakthrough. They are challenged, it gets tough, and they give up.
Do not give up!
When you reach the breaking point, say “hallelujah” because your breakthrough is just around the corner. Instead, look at the resources that DO have available to you. Watch for your next teacher to show up. And it keeps moving. A whole new level awaits you.