A Secret to Success as a Working Mom: Turn Burn Out Into Bliss and Embrace Joy

Last weekend my youngest was committed to going to the "Water Steps" a man-made water fall in Pittsburgh by the rivers. (Fun Fact: Three rivers converge in Pittsburgh--The Ohio River, The Monongahela River, and the Allegheny River.)  He kept asking. I knew he was serious when he said, "If you won't take me, I'll ask  daddy!" Given that it was highly unlikely that would happen on an unscheduled day, I relented. So, we went. It wasn’t planned in the way most things in my life are. No calendar block. No checklist. No “productive” purpose attached. And, so in some respects it was uncomfortable. And yet, it seemed necessary. It was the idea of my 8-year-old—offered with the kind of urgency only children possess when something is profoundly important to them.

Apologies For My Biased Law Firm Angst...

The article about singles leaving the fast track clearly hit a nerve for me yesterday and made me conjure up memories about my prior life as a law firm associate. My whining about that life isn't particularly original. Indeed,law firms are notorious for being pressure cookers.

However, I wanted to make something clear. That environment didn't work for me because I didn't love it. As you can tell from my blog posts, I have lots of interests. It was the law firm life that got to me eventually. However, I am glad that I got the experience. I learned a lot. Besides, in the long run I was no worse for the wear. I just needed to take a month off before I started my new job as an in-house lawyer.

Even given my thoughts about the life of a young associate, I still encourage law students to give it a try. You get to work with smart people, get great experience and get to decide what type of law you'll eventually practice. It's also a great way to build a strong network.

Besides, just because I didn't like it doesn't mean that everybody will feel that way, even if the turnover statistics for associates are rather high...
Enhanced by Zemanta

Comments

Meryl said…
It is hard to find the 'perfect' job - especially when you're young, and there is a lot to learn (as you so correctly point out) even in jobs and locations that you 'don't love'.

I am your newest follower (returning your follow) and look forward to more visits.
Ugochi said…
Hi Chaton,
Sometimes it is not easy for the single you know...
Following from the hop.
Blessings!
TESHUVA-http://www.ugochi-jolomi.com/