Let’s face facts: Starting and running your own law firm can be a lonely proposition, especially at the beginning. Now, with stay-at-home orders in place and law offices running their teams remotely, you may feel more isolated than ever—especially if you’re also struggling to stay afloat. If ever there was a time for attorneys to find ways to stay connected with a community of colleagues, it’s now. Let’s explore a couple of ways to do so.
Look for Gatherings Online
The days of quarantine have truly shown us the value of videoconferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, etc. Many professional communities are staying connected by offering online workshops, webinars and basic hangouts to replace their typical meetups. Do some research among your contacts and find out if anyone in your sphere is holding these gatherings. If you’re connected on social media, that’s often a good place to start. Zoom meetings are not an ideal replacement for in-person hangouts, but conferring with other attorneys in a similar position can give some encouragement and remind you that you’re not alone. You might also get some creative ideas on how to grow your firm even from home.
Reach Out to Mentors
It can be difficult to admit you need help or moral support—but in these extraordinary circumstances, almost everyone does. If you’re feeling isolated, don’t be afraid to reach out to those people in your life whom you view as mentors—both to check on them and just to chat. When we’re out and about, socializing often happens as we go; when we’re stuck at home, we have to do it more purposefully. Discipline yourself to reach out once in a while, especially during those times when you feel alone.
Be a Mentor Yourself
Ralph Waldo Emerson famously said, “The only way to have a friend is to be one.” Never have those words been truer than now. One of the best ways to combat feelings of isolation, depression or even self-pity is to help someone else who may be feeling the same way. Even if you’re technically a novice, it’s pretty much guaranteed you have people in your life who look up to you, just as you look up to others. Be mindful of those people and look for ways to continue nurturing them. Likewise, going back to earlier points…if you can’t find anyone holding an online meetup—consider hosting one yourself. If you’re having trouble finding community—become the person who provides community.
Of course, during this time of isolation, our firm is making an extra effort to maintain community for our colleagues and trainees. We are here to provide the support you need during this time. Reach out to us (888) 207-2869.
