The first two years of an attorney’s career can be a shock to the system. We need to know the law, navigate new relationships, learn how our partner practices, market ourselves, and find time to network. The hours are even longer than those spent studying in law school. We need to invest in ourselves, our families, and our friends.
To get through all of these challenges, start by establishing a routine. Develop work and personal systems that can help you balance demands, rise to the expectations of your colleagues, and create a holistic plan to grow professionally.
Great routines start with discipline and include prioritization, time management, planning, balance, momentum, and boundaries. These suggestions will help you establish a routine that will serve you now and in the future.
Plan Your Day and Block Your Calendar
The most successful attorneys plan their weeks and days by blocking their calendars. Decide which projects are most important and urgent. Plan to prepare for meetings and hearings. Schedule time to complete administrative tasks. Leave yourself windows to exercise, eat well, and relax. After you determine your “must and should dos” for the week, block your calendar so others cannot schedule over your most important tasks. Interruptions and new projects will come up, but you will have a plan to work around your priorities routinely.