We get it. Lawyers tend to work long hours, face stress on the job, and manage heavy workloads.
While pursuing an exciting career path can certainly be rewarding, it can also lead to burnout.
To address symptoms of burnout, lawyers shouldn’t hesitate to speak up about common issues like poor boundaries, high workload, and lack of recognition. This article describes the symptoms of burnout and offers some proven strategies to combat it.
Understanding the symptoms of burnout
Burnout doesn’t occur overnight. Generally, it’s the result of chronic stress that builds slowly and leads to exhaustion over time.
Common symptoms of burnout include:
- Lack of enthusiasm
- Feelings of cynicism or hopelessness
- Moodiness and increased irritability
These challenges can lead to physical manifestations like poor sleep, stomach problems, and appetite changes. It is important to be aware of the signs of burnout and take action before they become overwhelming.
Tips for lawyers to reduce burnout
Working in the legal field may lead to burnout. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to address the exhaustion and mitigate burnout:
Take breaks throughout the day
Even the busiest lawyers can take a half-hour pause during the workday. For optimal relief from burnout, be sure to include additional shorter breaks every few hours. A simple five-minute stretch, a morning coffee, or a quick chat with a colleague can help you recharge. You’ll be happier and more productive by stepping away every once in a while.
Manage your workload
While it can be tough to say no to work, lawyers must understand their limits and set realistic expectations. Be cognizant of deadlines, but don’t overpromise what you can deliver. If you’re under pressure, consider delegating tasks to other team members. Taking on fewer cases (or working fewer hours) can relieve stress as well.
Set clear boundaries
Occasionally, you may need to work after hours or be available to clients on a whim. Just remember that you’re only human, and that you can’t be available 24/7. By setting clear office hours and unplugging over the weekend, you can be more present outside the office. You may also choose to silence your phone around friends and family.
Practice self-care
To address burnout, you’ll want to keep some coping mechanisms in your toolkit. You may choose to practice meditation in the morning, read a book before bed, or take a walk on a wooded trail. Even cooking a delicious meal or running a hot bath can help. Focus on habits that encourage mindfulness and promote relaxation.
Pursue professional development
Contrary to popular belief, engaging in professional development outside your normal job tasks can help with burnout. You may decide to attend a conference or take an online course. By developing new skills, or exploring new areas of law, you can take control of your life and career. We’re confident you’ll feel more empowered by investing in yourself.
Focus on the positive
It may sound trite, but remembering the good can alleviate the bad. By considering what you love, you can embrace why you became a lawyer in the first place. Consider the positive impact you have on clients in your community, and the successes you’ve accumulated over the years. Even gratitude for your colleagues can help.
Ultimately, burnout is a real concern for lawyers. The profession is one of high stress, relatively long hours, and intense workloads. Yet working in the legal field can also be very fulfilling. By recognizing the signs of burnout and taking steps to address it, you can maintain a healthy work-life balance.
We are here
Are you experiencing symptoms of burnout? It may be time to consider a change and we can help. At Urban Legal Recruitment, we match partners, associates, and in-house legal counsel with the best firms and companies for their needs and qualifications.
Connect with us to take those next steps and we’ll make sure you can carve out the work-life balance you need to truly thrive. Submit your resume to get started on your search. We look forward to hearing from you!