Being an Associate at a Big Law Firm Is Hard

-You feel like you have to be perfect.
-You get scared to let your guard down.
-You strive not to let them see the tears, the struggle, the sweat.

That makes for a stressful existence, and it can really take a toll.

Over time, I developed a practice of keeping 3 folders in my office that really helped me feel less daunted and more in control.

I thought you might try to do the same:

1️⃣ An “Evidence” Folder

This is where you put all the positive feedback you ever received.

It can be a draft that a partner wrote “Terrific” on top, a note to self that a client nodded and smiled when seeing your case writeup, and notes or any and every little positive thing that’s happened to you at the firm.

This folder comes in really handy when you feel overwhelmed or like you’re not sure you’re good enough.

Review this folder often to remember your past accomplishments and prop up your confidence to brave future challenges.

2️⃣ An “I have learned” folder.

In this folder go all the new things you’ve worked on— topics you’ve researched, checklists you’ve created, motions you’ve drafted, contracts or deposition outlines you’ve prepared, presentations you’ve given, etc.

In addition to helping you feel accomplished, the items in this folder will be an excellent source of models for you going forward.

This folder will be thin when you start, but you’ll be amazed to see how it grows over time.

Having this type of folder is a gamechanger when the time comes to write your year-end self-evaluation. It will also make it infinitely easier when the time comes to update your resume!

3️⃣ An “I need to learn” folder.

In here, put all the cases, interesting articles, and other materials on topics you want to read about.

These items will keep you moving forward when times are slow and you’re twiddling your thumbs worrying about hours.

Instead of worrying, why not learn everything about a useful topic, write an article about it, and pitch it to a partner for publication?

By collecting things little-by-little over time, you can really amass quite a learning library for yourself.

⬇️

Might you try some of my folders out?

Let me know if you do!

💌 Amanda

🗳️ What have you started doing at work that’s helped you feel more in control at your firm?

—Have another type of folder you keep?
—Something else you do?

Any and all ideas, no matter how silly, can be helpful for new associates who are coming up with their own systems for success!

#JRLitigators