What makes (or, would make) you a happy lawyer?

If you are an unemployed lawyer, as thousands across the country are these days, obviously you are not a "happy lawyer" - - and, understandably so.

But, I address the following to those lawyers who are employed - - whether working in large firms, medium or small partnerships, solo practices, or whatever.

To those lawyers I ask the question, "Have you ever asked yourself (or seriously took the time to consider) what factors make you happy as a lawyer?"

There is an old adage that goes something like, "If you don't know where you are going, how will you know when you get there?"

So, I repeat my question, "Have you ever asked yourself (or took the time to consider) what makes (or, would make) you happy being a lawyer?"

I recently read in a Blog ("Personal Finance Blog by Money Ning") that a study released in the Wall Street Journal said that making $75,000 a year was the optimum salary for happiness.  However, that study did not focus on the legal profession.  So, let's just add a "1" before the "7" and say (for the sake of discussion) that, perhaps, making $175,000 a year was the optimum salary for happiness for lawyers. Or, if you prefer, let's add a "2" before the "7" and move that figure up to $275,000 for happiness.

But, the interesting part of the study showed that making the optimum salary (whatever the figure) did not really contribute much to happiness.  And, in support of that statement, I have met many lawyers who earn tremendous salaries who admit being unhappy practicing law.

So, then, the real question is, "What factors REALLY contribute to your happiness as a lawyer (assuming you are an example of this latter statement)?"

First, I will admit that how much money a lawyer makes is definitely a factor that affects their happiness and career satisfaction.  But, the truth of the matter is that it is not just the dollar amount.  There are other factors that are equally, if not more, important than the dollar amount. 

For example:

Other types of compensation.  Some lawyers are happy taking less in terms of salary in exchange for other types of compensation.  Benefits such as a good health plan can out weight the take home pay.  A nice retirement plan (if they still exist today), a vacation policy and even unpaid personal leave can all influence how you feel about your job.

Do you still find your work interesting and stimulating? Whether or not your work is interesting and stimulating can also make a difference in how your feel about your career.  Work that a lawyer finds interesting can be satisfying - - even if they are not making a great deal of money.  I have met lawyers who quit the practice because they became bored with their work.

Do you feel appreciated?  Everyone likes to feel appreciated (especially lawyers).  If you feel that you are being recognized for your contributions (by the Bar, by your Firm, by your clients), you are more likely to be satisfied with your career and happy in your work.

Other considerations contributing to a lawyers happiness might be: Flexibility(for example, being able to work at home); the other attorneys around you with whom you associate (if they are a bunch of SOB's, you won't find life in the office very pleasant); whether you have any "clients from hell" (which can ruin your day, if not your career); and, your ability to make the decision on accepting and/or rejecting the clients and cases you take.

What else?

JEROME M. BAME, Esq., Coach-Mentor-Confidant to Lawyers, 10061 Talbert Avenue, Suite 200, Fountain Valley, CA  92708; Telephone (714) 962-4477; Email bame@pro-businesscoaches.com

 

 

 

 

Comments

[Cindy Kirby]

Practicing law in Toledo, Ohio contributes to my happiness as a lawyer. Our local bar is congenial, cooperative and fosters a sense of camaraderie not often found among legal professionals. In addition, reminding myself daily that I am making a difference in the lives of people I represent helps me to be happy in my practice.