The Difference Between Good and Great Is a Little “Pop”
There is a difference between being good and great in anything—writing, arguing, researching etc. As lawyers, we are always striving for “great.” My understanding of how to turn “good” into “great” came while working on my jumps.
A good leap goes up and comes back down. Everything is technically correct—toes are pointed, knees are straight—but it is not stunning. Conversely, a great leap suspends in the air a moment, like someone put a pause on gravity.
The difference between the two is a little “pop.” At the highest point of the jump, I was taught to give a brief but mighty “pop” of the legs past 180 degrees. The extra lift counteracts the beginning descent to the ground, giving the illusion of floating. A small, but mighty, difference.
In the practice of law, great work also comes with a little “pop.” This means carefully crafting the language a little bit more, adding an extra layer of organization to document review, or making a phone call instead of sending an email. Small changes make big differences.
Mentors Matter
I once had two dance classes taught back-to-back by different instructors. The first was strict, critical, and exacting. While my technique did become stronger, I left each class feeling clumsier than before.
The next instructor believed in finding joy through the challenge of dance by celebrating our improvements. He was dedicated to teaching us to do the same. In contrast to the first instructor, I always left his class feeling like an artist.
I brought the same skill set, work ethic, and talent to both classes. Each technically did improve my skills. But the lessons I learned from the second instructor truly made me a better dancer because they went beyond the technical—he was giving me a powerful mindset.
As a young lawyer it is important to look for mentors that make you feel like the second instructor. Find someone who is excited to help you learn, treats your mistakes with grace, and celebrates every improvement.
Stay Connected with Your Center of Gravity
In ballet, we spend a lot of time on our toes. A few weeks ago, our instructor had us releve (rise up on our toes) and balance. I felt solid with no wobbles. She then had us close our eyes, and my sense of balance was suddenly gone.
We cannot always rely on our external senses to find our balance. What is easy in a familiar studio becomes significantly harder on a stage five feet off the ground under moving lights.
Your sense of balance—your center of gravity—must come from yourself. You must be able to find that core over and over again.
As the external work and stress build up in this field, being able to recenter yourself is critical. Remember what makes you unique and capable. Remember why this job suits you so well. You will always be a better advocate because of it.
