How a Busy Attorney Found Balance

In today's hustle-and-bustle world it's easy to become consumed with your career.  For many years I dedicated my life to my career as a litigator.  It was normal for me to work 6-7 days a week, 12-15 hours a day.  I received more than 200 emails a day and it wasn't uncommon for me to work 30-60 days in a row when preparing for a trial.  I spent a significant amount of time honing my skills, without taking any shortcuts, and it led to great success, at least in terms of my career.  I built-up a prodigious book of business, a prestigious practice group, and played a pivotal role in developing what would become one of the largest law firms in Florida.  For a while, life was great, or so it seemed.  I was a primary shareholder of a large firm, I was bringing in more business than anyone in the firm, there were dozens of individuals reporting directly to me, and I was litigating the most complex cases out there (most of which involved damages in the multi-million dollar range).  I was making a ton of money and was very proud of what I accomplished.  

Then one Saturday, as I was sitting home alone (my fiance was out-of-town and I didn't have to work for the first time in 6 weeks), I had an epiphany.  For a second, I was excited about the prospect of having a weekend to do whatever I wanted. However, the excitement soon turned to sadness when I literally couldn't figure out what to do with my newly acquired free time.  It was then that I realized all I had given up along the way.  Needless to say, I re-evaluated my priorities and started to dedicate my life to balance.  I left my law firm and started a mediation practice.  I now spend a lot more time with my fiance, I have reconnected with friends and family who I lost touch with, I play all sorts of sports and games, I go to lots concerts and shows, I spend a lot more time focused on exercise and nutrition, I have a lot more "still" time, I work normal hours, and I NEVER work weekends.  

The next step is to start a family, which will undoubtedly be the most significant success of my life.  I could go on for days discussing my transition to a happier existence, however, I will stop here in the spirit of balance. Stay balanced my friends...