Findingwork-LiFeBaLanCeasasoLoorsmaLLFirmattorneY : praCtiCaLtips
Solo & Small Firm Section
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likely to not miss something , whether it is a deadline , task , or other . This will , in turn , help reduce your stress and fear and help balance you .
4 . Hire a coach – this can be a business coach , life coach , career coach , therapist , etc . Having someone in your corner who understands your goals and challenges and your needs and wants while also being outside your organization can help you see clearly and achieve your goals and ultimate success while maintaining that work-life balance .
5 . Part-time staff & Delegation – hiring someone part-time , whether a virtual assistant , a legal intern , or a friend or family member , to step in and assist you when you cannot get to everything , or everyone will be helpful . These individuals can help generally with simple tasks such as returning phone calls and scheduling appointments . Or they can specialize in assisting with bookkeeping / accounting , marketing / social media , or drafting / researching .
This will help you relieve stress and maintain good relationships with your clients and / or business contacts . 6 . Systemize your practice — While this can often take a great amount of time and effort in the beginning , it will help your practice flow and flourish . This can be as simple as creating Microsoft Word or other templates for everyday work , or it may involve creating or purchasing a more sophisticated system , especially as you grow your practice . Often , your case management software or your CRM ( customer relationship management ) will have some ability to help you better “ systemize ” your practice .
7 . Build a support network – join local organizations , such as the Hillsborough County Bar Association ’ s Solo and Small Firm Section and other attorney organizations where you can connect with like-minded individuals who face similar challenges . Additionally , finding and connecting with mentors and attending networking events are all ways to build a team that can support you .
8 . Make YOU a priority & spend time doing what you enjoy – as solo and small firm attorneys , we often have a crushing amount of stress as we have no safety net , which can lead to mistakes . This is why taking time and prioritizing your life outside of work is so important . Your work will consume you if you do not ! Take time to connect with family and friends , participate in outdoor activities , workout , travel , and binge-watch television shows . Continue to make an effort to do the things you love and keep your passions and hobbies alive , as it is important in finding overall fulfillment .
Remember why you chose this path in the first place . While the challenges of solo or small firm practice are real , with intentional planning you can find the balance you need to live a fulfilling , successful life — both inside and outside of work . n
Author : Robert J . Johnson – Carter Injury Law , PA
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