by Andi Groomes

Summer has finally come to Los Angeles and along with summer comes a very foggy vision of the landscape.  Okay… I must admit, LA often has great weather, but we residents know that summer also brings more of the dreaded smog.  This seasonal “June Gloom” as we call it, obscures the view for almost half of each day, leaving us with a mere outline of the this beautiful city from mountain top to the ocean.  But when the smog clears the vision is compelling, it draws you in.  The same is true for a clear and detailed vision of success.

More than other professionals, lawyers often live in the smog of meeting the billable hour demand.  But like a clear day in Los Angeles, when you create a full color, definitive vision of success you are compelled by the clarity.  This type of vision makes it easier to find your path and stay on track, not to mention enjoy the ride along the way.

You may be asking yourself… what’s in a vision?  A strong vision defines in detail what you really want in your work and life.  When I recently asked a couple of clients what was their vision of success, one hard working successful partner admitted, “I’m not really sure.” Another said, “I want challenging work and the ability to generate, execute, and manage cases successfully.” Pretty good… kind of like a black and white outline of a vision, when in fact, a full color version would be much more powerful.

Consider the following as a guide:

• What specific, measurable, results oriented outcomes do you want and by when?
• What relationships, both internal and external will move you towards your vision?
• What are your strengths and how will you deploy them to support your vision?
• What development and learning do you need to improve your expertise?
• What resources do you need to support your success?  What resources are available to you?
• How much time is required to fulfill the billable hours that comprise your income/career success?
• How much time is required to fulfill your strategic relationship development?
• What outside interests must be included to satisfy your personal values and needs?

By now I’m sure you get the picture.  So steal some time this summer, while your clients are on vacation.  Sharpen your vision of success, so you can benefit from a roadmap that leads you exactly where you want to go!