First Year

As a first-year partner, I've tried to systemize things even more than I had leading up to making partner.

Part of that is, monthly, reviewing my "partner notes."

I keep a Goodnotes notebook on my iPad for all things partner related. I take time each month to review it. I notate and follow up on goals, ideas, and more.

In this month's review, I came across this quote:

➡️➡️ There are different stories. Yours is one of potential. Think about your 5-year ROI (return on investment). ⬅️⬅️

As much as I told myself to chill this year, to lay off the intense focus on numbers, I've often not been able to help myself. The metrics matter.

But the story that accompanies my metrics matters, too.

It would be easy to say, "Emily's numbers are smaller than last year," and to leave it at that.

But, what about the why?

Sure, as is common for commercial litigators, because I'm not the price of an associate anymore, the billable hours drop. That's a tradition at this point.

But also: I'm delegating--even when I'm slow, pushing aside the urge to horde work when I can build relationships with associates and help them gain the skills to be important teammates down the line.

And: I had a case sit silent for six months, while we waited for the court to decide summary judgment motions. Another case faded away--one I had sort of counted on bringing me substantive hours.

Also, I've assisted on many smaller matters, building a new area of work: helping contract-holders break up and ideally avoid litigation all together.

Finally: I've used the time and space wisely. I joined a business development mastermind, with three other big law female litigation partners. I hired a business development coach for 1:1 coaching. I started a podcast. I attended a new-to-me conference. I've done more speaking engagements, including my first paid gig. My networking has become more intentional and focused (well, I'm trying my best there, at least).

All in: I'm showing my potential. I'm laying the foundation. Growth will flow from here and I'm pretty confident, in five years, my ROI will speak for itself.

❤️✌🏻🔥