Ownership

Take ownership of the file.

When you enter #biglaw, you'll hear this constantly.

But: few people will tell you what it means.

I will endeavor to do so here--likely imperfectly.

Taking ownership of the matter means:

🌟 Think big picture.

🌟 Ask questions.

🌟 Review background documents.

🌟 Think, "No task is too small."

🌟 Be in charge of deadlines--confirming them, docketing them, calendaring them.

🌟 Don't be afraid to "nudge," "bump," and/or "stalk partners."

🌟 Keep it moving forward.

🌟 Over communicate.

🌟 Offer to keep working at it.

🌟 Meet and beat deadlines.

🌟 Show confidence in your work.

🌟 Recommend strategy and/or next steps.

This is an art. An art that comes with time and looks differently for each of us.

But: It is not about perfection. It is about trial and error and being open to learning as you go.

It is true: the best associates take ownership of each assignment.

That is not an impossibility--you can own things, too.

#lawyerwellbeing #bestadvice #productivity #gettingthingsdone