Life Lessons for Lawyers: Guidance for the Mind and Soul

Summary

This book draws on the author's professional experience and published works in the areas of leadership, philosophy, psychology, and management (amongst others) to discuss the 'softer' qualities of being a good lawyer—qualities which are not taught or widely documented, such as humility, confidence, personal relationships, and our dreams and vision.

The book demonstrates that we can be individuals within the law and outlines qualities that can both enrich our work and our souls. A theme throughout many of the chapters is to encourage us to think and act differently to what we may have been taught, what others expect, or what we ourselves believe. To know that regardless of our strengths and weaknesses, we are unique individuals in the law. This book offers wisdom and pragmatic support for lawyers and anyone involved with the law.

Covering a range of issues, it includes advice on: maintaining one's passions inside and outside law; dealing with perfectionist tendencies, anxiety, and depression; managing our fears and dealing with mistakes; striving for an honorable path; understanding and leveraging the organizational matrix; acting as a moral voice in your organization; leading with humility and vulnerability; taking breaks and reconnecting with ourselves; and navigating structural inequalities in one's career.