by Marci Wilf

In a recent post, I covered the first two “soft” topics of a recent presentation I delivered to first year associates: facing fear and projecting confidence. The third topic covered, managing stress, is equally important and is covered below as promised.

Finding healthy ways to manage the high stress of today’s practice of law is critical to your career success and satisfaction. Here are some ideas that will help you to cope with your stress:

• Set boundaries — take some time in your work day/week to disconnect. Don’t check your cell phone after a reasonable time at night or first thing in the morning. Take some time (regularly) that is just for you.
• Sleep — at least 7 hours per night. Do not underestimate the power of a good night’s sleep or the havoc that lack of sleep can play on your mood and your performance. The consequences of lack of sleep are dire, both for short-term optimal functioning and for your longevity.
• Exercise – take care of your body. If you don’t, nothing else will be possible! Enter it in your schedule and make sure to do something at least 3-4 times per week, if not daily. It does not need to be an hour-long workout to have a positive impact on your overall health and functioning…even a few minutes can make a significant impact. Do the best you can!
• Meditate — rest your mind and feed your spirit. This does not need to mean that you must sit quietly in a dark room for an hour and chanting “ohm,” it can be 10 minutes in the morning when you wake up and 10 minutes at the end of the day. This will ground you for the day and let you face whatever stresses come your way with calm and equanimity.
• Breathe deeply — you literally cannot be stressed if you take two minutes to breathe deeply. Take a few short deep-breathing breaks a few times every day.
• Meet a friend — for lunch or a cup of coffee. Eating alone at your desk is NOT good for you! This is a great way to build relationships with colleagues, maintain connections to law school friends, and get to know existing firm clients and others who may someday become clients.
• Take regular breaks — going for a short walk can change your perspective and brighten your mood.
• Pursue outside interests — especially those that involve helping others. This helps you keep your perspective and balance.
• Have fun — laugh often, maintain a sense of humor, and don’t take yourself too seriously!

If you adopt these strategies, you will find that you have a healthier outlook and increased satisfaction from your practice. I wish you well!