Working with many law firms and looking from the outside in puts you in a strong position to be objective. The common emerging theme is that working in the legal sector does come with reward, but often at a great cost.
What we know:
Risk factors go hand in hand with the role, some of which include:
- Long billable hours
- Emotional toll
- High pressure and responsibility
- Work-life balance
- Competitive, high-expectations environment
What we also know:
In terms of prioritising the health of partners and colleagues within firms, the legal sector still has a long way to go institutionally. Whilst structural changes are starting to embed and awareness is increasing, it may feel like you, as an individual, are rendered powerless.
The aim of this article is to highlight some daily tweaks you could introduce, and it’s these small consistent efforts that could have long-term incremental gains.
Let’s turn our attention to managing technology to manage mental and physical health.
Technology has become an integral part of the modern legal landscape, offering unprecedented efficiency and connectivity. However, its pervasive presence also introduces challenges that can impact the mental wellness of those in the legal sector.
The upside of technology in legal practice
- Efficiency and productivity: Technology streamlines legal processes, facilitating faster research, document drafting, and communication.
- Remote work opportunities: The advent of technology enables lawyers to work remotely, providing flexibility and potential work-life balance.
- Access to information: Legal professionals have instant access to vast legal databases, facilitating thorough research and analysis.
- Mindfulness and meditation apps that can be integrated into daily routines have their place to help us set reminders for self-care and track mental wellness activities. A sure fast way of broadcasting support to individuals and lowering isolation.
The negative impact of technology in legal practice
- 24/7 connectivity: Constant connectivity through emails and mobile devices blurs the boundaries between work and personal life, potentially contributing to burnout.
- Information overload: The abundance of digital information can be overwhelming, affecting focus and concentration.
- Cybersecurity concerns: Lawyers handling sensitive information face the stress of ensuring robust cybersecurity measures.
- Excessive digital use has been associated with various mental health issues, including impaired emotional and social intelligence, attention-deficit symptoms, and social isolation.
- The physical health effects of excessive screen time, which can lead to reduced sleep, headaches, and neck pain.
Navigating the digital landscape is essential for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing in the legal profession. Whilst it may be the case that your firm is still agreeing policies and procedures, here are strategies for cultivating a healthy relationship with technology as an individual:
Establish boundaries
With technology the lines between work and home can merge. Define clear work hours and encourage colleagues to respect personal time. With comms continuously reaching us through various mediums, setting boundaries becomes somewhat of a skill.
Engage mindfully
Set designated times for checking emails and messages to prevent constant interruptions. Constantly checking devices can lead to information overload and decision fatigue. By setting specific times, you can reduce the mental burden as well as reserve your energy levels.
Make your break count!
When you have a break at work ditch the tech and disconnect. What a perfect opportunity to reduce eye strain and slotting in some offline activity impacts your mental and physical health positively.
“Disconnecting from technology to reconnect with ourselves is absolutely essential for wisdom.” – Arriana Huffington
To close, I will leave you with a challenge to consider! You’re probably aware that technology reacts havoc with melatonin, the hormone essential to induce sleep. Browsing social media, scrolling emails, or reading news articles can keep your brain active and alert. Consider stopping using smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions at least one hour before you plan to go to sleep. (The caveat: unless accessing a bedtime/sleep app in which case activate night mode). Engage instead in relaxing activities before bed, such as reading a physical book, taking a warm bath, meditating, or listening to calming music.
Committing to one of these suggestions with an intentional approach gives you the power to make a positive difference to your wellbeing.
Do let us know how you get on!
More about Leigh
Leigh has been in the Wellbeing Industry for over a decade working with organisations globally. Leigh studied a Social Science degree specialising in Psychology and is a Mental Health First Aid Instructor and Wellbeing consultant. A large proportion of Leigh’s experience has been gained through supporting family members who have experienced mental illness. She works in various industries, ranging from the legal sector, education, manufacturing, and finance. Her key purpose is to make a positive difference and help create a supportive work culture that enhances performance, productivity, and engagement, while also supporting corporate and social responsibility.
Find out more about Leigh on LinkedIn and on her website.
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