In a 2022 survey conducted by Axiom, it was found that approximately 78% of in-house lawyers felt stressed or burned out within their roles. Our current times demand an increased focus on mental health, but legal professionals especially need self-reflecting strategies to manage their workload and well-being. Various tactics have been suggested for managing stress, including the 3 R’s: Reflection, Refueling, and Redesigning.
Reflection: Self-reflection is key in understanding why you’re feeling overwhelmed. An analysis of one’s work, professional relations, volume of obligations, or even the monotony of tasks can reveal the root causes of stress. While it’s critical to recognize what’s causing distress, it’s equally important to brainstorm ways to address these issues. A connection with a therapist, coach or trusted colleague can provide an objective sounding board for ideas. The goal is change, as doing nothing may lead to prolongation of the stressful state.
Refueling: Energy restoration methods can vary drastically depending on individual personal preferences. In a profession that’s often draining, replenishing oneself with activities that induce positivity is critical. This could be a physical activity, getting proper nutrition or sleep, or even reading for an escape. The intention here is to do activities that are energizing or restorative.
Redesigning: This strategy implies changes in your routine or lifestyle to improve mental health. While this may sound daunting, the focus should be on making small, positive changes that can have a significant impact over time. These changes could range from scheduling a daily walk to planning out work tasks for the upcoming week. Small changes that support mental health can add up to a big difference in the long term.
In conclusion, regardless of the occupation or professional setting, maintaining mental health is crucial. It is important to remember that even a single step towards a healthy work-life balance can make a significant difference in your life.
For further reading, see the article by Meyling “Mey” Ly Ortiz, in-house counsel at Toyota Motor North America, here.