Outrunning Burnout
This month’s Wisconsin Lawyer magazine features an article by Paula Davis-Laack on burnout. When I think of the word “burnout,” the first thought that comes to my mind is “I don’t have time for burnout.” Maybe other lawyers and law students feel the same way–burnout is not an option.
The article suggests five tips for preventing burnout:
1. Increase your self-efficacy.
2. Have creative outlets.
3. Take care of yourself.
4. Get support where you can find it.
5. Identify your values.
What I like about these tips is that Ms. Davis-Laack comes at the problem of burnout from a constructive, positive angle. The law profession is time-intensive and demanding, even though it is hugely rewarding. The same can be said of law school. Putting these tips into place seems fairly easy–simple habits to avoid big problems.
By increasing your self-efficacy, the article says, you can help yourself to feel in control, and feeling in control reduces stress. If you are in law school, start working on your outlines now–not at Thanksgiving.