Max Savoie, a partner in Sidley Austin’s payments and fintech practice, offers insight into managing stress amidst personal tragedy and the demands of a fast-paced legal career in a recent interview with Law.com International. Savoie began his legal practice at Clifford Chance and has faced numerous challenges throughout his career, including handling personal loss and stress.
During difficult times, Savoie admits to feeling overwhelmed and struggled with anxiety and depression. Subsequently, he sought help through counseling and medical treatment. He continues to attend counseling sessions, maintaining that it has been crucial in managing the pressures of his legal career.
Savoie has implemented his own strategies to alleviate stress in his professional setting. One such method includes maintaining adaptable to-do lists, which allow him to prioritize tasks based on their urgency and importance. He also delegates tasks to his colleagues and makes notes for follow-up, which helps him focus on one item at a time.
Outside the office, Savoie enjoys running and indulging in history podcasts and books, finding them therapeutic and an excellent way of escaping from his work pressures. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong relationships with friends and family as vital sources of support during challenging times.
Despite the demands of his job, Savoie is learning to manage his work-life balance, particularly as he prepares for fatherhood. He has limited his work communication during his personal time, only checking for critical updates. He advises others battling workplace stress to seek empathetic support, be open to counseling, and consider professional help.
For more of Savoie’s insights and experiences, read his full interview here.