The Atlanta Lawyer June/July 2020 Vol. 19, No. 1 | Page 18

IN THE PROFESSION Finding Peace and Balance In These Uncertain Times During COVID-19 ANTHONY COCHRAN 1 Smith Gambrell Russell, LLP [email protected] Being an attorney can be one of the most stressful professions. And now, we have COVID-19 and its economic consequences. Most of us now have a “virtual” office in our spare bedroom, on our dining room table, or in our basement. We have had to adapt to video meeting apps and video hearings. Being a Luddite is not an option. Stressors are ubiquitous. Not only does sheltering at home takes away the camaraderie of walking down the hall to ask a colleague a question or to simply visit, many of us are juggling other responsibilities beyond practicing law such as “home schooling” school-age children for the first time2 or having college-age young adults back under the roof for an uncertain amount of time. Then there is the stress and worry about our health, how to get groceries, and care for vulnerable aging parents, etc.3 Returning to the office presents many new challenges. Experts tell us that it is important for each of us to establish a routine in these unpredictable times. Routines give us a sense of predictability and control over our lives. Reaching out to your colleagues to offer your help and express 18 June/July 2020