Health / Wellness

The Realities Of Lawyering Life: How To Combat The Stress Of The Job

Stress may be part of the job, but what’s the point of being a lawyer if you’re not going to enjoy it a little?

By Peter S. Garnett  
on

Let’s face it. Being a lawyer can be stressful. This varies greatly as to what type of practice you are in, but studies have shown that lawyering is one of the most stressful occupations. Whether it be having to get a filing in by midnight or just meeting a supervisor’s deadline, stress is part of the job.

I’ve worked for large firms, small firms, and the government, and there will always be assignments, court appearances, etc. to stress about. That’s why I’ve focused on ways to reduce stress on the job, because what’s the point of being a lawyer if you’re not going to enjoy it a little?

The first way I reduce stress is by exercising. I’m a firm believer that a healthy body leads to a healthy mind, which in turn will reduce your stress levels. Also, exercising is just really good for you overall. I find that even 15 minutes of cardio can get your mind in order and bring more clarity. I’ve spoken to countless colleagues who all say the same thing: exercise matters. I find that it’s easier to just get your exercise over with and done in the morning before the craziness of the day begins. That way, you’re ready to go when the day starts and the calls and emails start pouring in.

The second technique I use to reduce stress is by practicing mindfulness. Mindfulness is hard to describe, but think of it as light meditation. The technical definition is that it is the psychological process of bringing one’s attention to experiences occurring in the present moment. You can take five minutes to do a mini mindfulness session that can bring your stress levels down. Mindfulness brings you back to the present and calms the nerves by focusing on one’s self. I’m certainly not an expert on the topic, but there is so much on the internet about mindfulness, so if you’re interested, I would check it out.

Next, I find that when I’m getting overly stressed about an assignment or a deadline, getting out of the office and taking a short break helps. I usually take a walk or just get out of the office for lunch. This applies especially when the weather is nice. Getting some fresh air does wonders and I find that I am much more productive when I get back to the office from my walk. And I mean a short walk, because you don’t want to push it and verge on procrastination.

Another great technique for combating stress is utilizing your colleagues. Sometimes I find that walking down the hall to chat to a colleague reduces my stress levels. He or she may have good advice on the assignment you’re working on or it may just pay to complain for a bit about the work you have to do. I’m a firm believer in getting to know your coworkers. When your co-workers know what you’re working on and how you’re doing, they can offer a helping hand or simply be a sympathetic shoulder to cry on.

Last, I think another good way to combat stress is to be assertive. If you feel like you are underwater and you’re losing your sanity because of deadlines and assignments, then go talk to your supervisor and tell him or her how you are feeling. Hopefully, you have a good relationship with your boss, and your boss will either get you some assistance or even extend a looming deadline. Either way, if you’re super stressed, what do you have to lose by going to your supervisor and asking for help?

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Again, lawyering can be a stressful occupation. But, hopefully, you can utilize some of these ideas and techniques to combat the stress related to our jobs.

Peter S. Garnett is an attorney at Balestriere Fariello who represents clients in trials, arbitrations, and appeals. He focuses his practice on complex commercial litigation and contract disputes from pre-filing investigations to trial and appeals. You can reach Peter at [email protected].

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