Following are just a few practical steps a new lawyer can take to gain control of his or her career. The principles initially appear obvious and not very challenging. But, as Finnish philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein remarked, “The aspects of things that are most important to us are hidden because of their simplicity and familiarity.” These ideas are simple, but the challenge is to actually take the time to implement them. Associates who are willing to incorporate some of them into their lives will be rewarded with greater personal and professional satisfaction. * Know yourself. Instead of rushing through each experience without considering what it can teach you, take the time to reflect and articulate your reactions. Reflect, too, upon the skills and qualities of attorneys you admire. You will learn more about the areas of law and kinds of projects you enjoy; environments, interactions and relationships that are best for you; skills and areas for improvement; and personal interests and values that will give you peace of mind. * Plan ahead. Creating a professional life is a participative process, not something that “happens to you.” Although a firm can help with some of the planning, it is amazing how many young lawyers begin their careers without any idea what they hope to accomplish in their jobs and in their personal lives. Even those who do actively think about their plans resist putting them on paper, preferring instead to keep them “in the back of their minds.” One of the most positive steps you can take in your own development is to create a short (0 to 5 years) and long term (5-10 years) plan. Do not be afraid to think big when considering what you would like to achieve. Before beginning, reflect on your experiences and values. Then write in detail, including measurable goals and specific action items. You will benefit by referring to your plan frequently, to gauge your progress and for revisions based on changing experiences and priorities. Welcome the unexpected. Since Greek mathematician Archimedes stumbled upon his theory of water displacement while bathing, we have been intrigued with “Eureka!” moments, what career coaches call “career serendipity.” You can best utilize this concept by maintaining an attitude of openness to take advantage of opportunities that arise, whether large or small, and relevant or seemingly removed from your career development. Before committing, determine each opportunity’s compatibility with your overall goals and gauge whether you have time to fully commit to it. Develop meaningful relationships. As the concept of “emotional intelligence” becomes widespread, we better understand the role emotions and interpersonal relationships play in otherwise logical activities. The successful associate will quickly get to know everybody in the office, find common ground with them, learn how to relate positively with their personalities and how to move together to accomplish the firm’s goals. This involves learning how to deal with problems that arise, knowing when to seek help from others . Find mentors. Professionally, mentors can give you insight by sharing information about their own experiences and the realties of practice. They also serve as valuable sounding boards, by listening and offering support and encouragement. If your employer does not offer formal mentoring, find a mentor by contacting your state NBA branch or seeking out those whose qualities and careers you admire, both inside and outside your firm and practice areas. i recommends finding an associate away from your practice area, to answer the “dumb” questions. Once you find a mentor, be sure to devote your own energies to ensuring the continued success of the relationship. Get involved. You cannot build a reputation for excellence by being passive. One way to show the promise of future client development is by becoming actively involved in your firm. The legal community and community at large also offer opportunities to display leadership. For example, by volunteering on his State NBA activities committee, one young associate met many of his State’s leading attorneys, In the classic case of doing well by doing good, your firm will also benefit, as your reputation grows and your activities generate new opportunities. Life is a participative experience – find out what interests you and get involved! ]]>