In this episode, I talk about how to stay physically and psychologically healthy when you're working incredibly demanding hours.  Working this way often occurs for lawyers in private practice.

I'm not a health professional - instead this comes from practical experience as a mergers and acquisitions lawyer for many years in law firms. Although it would be preferable that people don't work this way at all or don't do it for long, realistically speaking it happens.  When it does, taking a few simple measures will pay off for your physical and mental health, and sustainability in the long-run.

Show notes:

[1:05] Sometimes, lawyers work extremely  long hours because of urgent matters - whether a transaction, trial or a critical government inquiry.
[2:11] Working around the clock is not sustainable beyond a few weeks.
[3:34] I talk about how important it is to speak up if your team is under-resourced and there is a risk of unsafe work practices.
[5:30] Physically speaking, I recommend to keep exercising, to eat well, not to self-medicate and to keep up a daily meditation practice, even if just for a few minutes a day.
[8:24] Psychologically speaking. I emphasise that the crucial thing is resilience.
[10:23] Keep things in perspective even under stress. This will help you maintain your sense of humour, hold your temper and take it day by day. Stay grateful.
[15:33] Remember, that it always come down to people and appreciating those around you.

I am an experienced corporate lawyer, using the law to build purposeful, human-centred, Earth-friendly legal enterprises & ecosystems, for happier humans and a better planet.  I am also the founder and host of the New Earth lawyer podcast.

I am based in Melbourne, Australia. I established my own law practice Geraldine Grace in 2020, focussing on enterprises seeking purpose, and actors in the impact economy.

For more, check out the episode page on the New Earth lawyer website.