A lawyer's win's, as well as their loss's, are fleeting

I meet a number of lawyers who, after a week or so following a big "win," are still beaming.

But, the opposite is also true - - I meet a number of lawyers who, after a week or so following a big "loss, are still (very) depressed.

To maintain their stability (perhaps a better term might be "sanity"), a lawyer must learn how to cope with both their win's and loss's.  Neither should get them off of their focus of doing their very best for the next client or case.

Harvey Mackay, in an article published on March 26, 2011 in the Orange County (California) Register newspaper, recalls the "24 hour rule" that Don Shula (an incredibly successful NFL professional football coach) practiced. Shula had a policy of looking forward to the next challenge instead of dwelling on the previous victory or failure.  The coach allowed himself, his staff and players, a maximum of 24 hours to celebrate a victory or brood over a defeat.  Shula encouraged his staff and team to feel their emotions of success or failure as deeply as they could - - but only for 24 hours.  But the next day, it was time to put all that behind them and start concentrating their energy on preparing for their next game. His philosophy was that if you keep your failures and victories in perspective, you will do better in the long run.

In reality, we all know this to be true.  How often have you been tempted to "throw in the towel" after losing a big client or a major case, only to have your fortune turn a day or two later?

Every morning brings new potential, but if you dwell on the misfortunes, you tend to overlook opportunities.  Instead of seeing the possibilities of success, you hesitate - - not to mention the negative vibes you send out to your clients.

As Mackay says, "Resolve to learn something new every day, because every 24 hours you have the opportunity to have the best day of your [legal] career."

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

Comments

[Curt Barwick]

For years I would take my kids to school and enjoy the precious moments and the quality time. As they got out of the car, I would always tell them "Have fun! Do your best!" Over time, I determined that this small little phrase was relevant for my life as well and I generally repeat this mantra every morning as I walk into my building. Practicing law is a challenge and some days are more stressful than others. It is important to stay balanced and focused on what is important and realize that stressful times will dissipate and there will be better tomorrows.