Trial Magazine

As one of my law school professors suggested, have something in your life that pushes back. Lawyering will always try to expand to fill all space, and there is always more to do. Make sure that something else in your life also gets prioritized—whether it’s family, a hobby, exercise, etc.

Leland Belew, Andrus Anderson, San Francisco, CA

I do my best to take interesting cases that I’m passionate about and work with clients who primarily want to change the system for other people. It’s easy to continue to work hard when you care about the cause and the client.

Shenoa Payne, Shenoa Payne Attorney at Law, Portland, OR

I avoid burnout by routinely embracing the outdoors. I go hiking in nearby mountains most of the year and take seasonal bike rides. Being out in nature is my form of therapy: fresh air, physical activity, and peace and quiet far away from emails and Zoom calls.

Brian R. Morrison, Tadler Law, New York, NY

My strategy is threefold: a half-hour walk and fresh air after lunch, stopping work at 6 p.m. no matter what, and doing yoga to wind down before bed. These breaks keep my energy up and make all the difference.

Emily Grace Thomas, Olsman MacKenzie Peacock & Wallace, Berkley, MI

I maintain excitement about my work by continually trying to streamline and improve my practice. Through books, podcasts, and articles I get tips on leadership, management, technology, and specific areas of law.

Amber M. Pang Parra, Justinian & Associates, San Antonio, TX

I keep in mind my gratitude for the privilege to do what I do. And I think about my clients who, for the most part, need me to make things better for them.

Robert A. Greenberg, Locks Law Firm, Cherry Hill, NJ