Build Credit

Build credit.

It cannot go unsaid: in a lot of ways, I get to talk as openly about things as I do because my numbers back it up, because I’m responsive, because partners trust me, because I work very hard.

I hit my hours every year I was an associate—in the last several, I exceeded the requirement substantively. Every year, I coupled billable hours with loads of investment (non-billable) time. I showed investment in myself, in my work, and in my firm.

It also cannot go unsaid: it was not all rainbows and butterflies. I had doubts. I made mistakes. I didn’t like every minute. I didn’t get along with everyone I worked with. I didn’t like every type of work I said yes to.

But, putting in the time, building trust, creating a name for myself—all of that creates space. Space to speak up, space to say no more often, space to have more boundaries. There is a give and take.

When you choose #biglaw, you choose an imperfect path. It comes with high expectations, high stakes, and a hierarchy. That is reality. The most successful recognize the framework and figure out how to work within it. The most successful build credit and then pick their battles.

It is possible to have boundaries in big law. It is possible to say no. It is possible to be kind. It is possible to niche down, into an area that interests and serves your goals. It is possible to avoid toxic environments. It is possible to be content, to even enjoy it. But: it is not easy, there is a give and take, there are ups and downs.

If you go all in, there will be hard times, but the harder you work, the more space you get in return. And in that space you can have a voice and use it. I promise.

#mindfullyemily #biglaw #lawyerwellbeing #professionalwomen #emilylitigates