There should be something to do at work other than work. Back in high school, we all went to school for reasons other than school. We socialized, we flirted, we hung out. This should be a part of work too .
Too many big law firms take themselves too seriously. They forget that a place of work should also be a place were friendships are made. One of the first things I heard when I joined the big law club is that “co-workers are not your friends, they are your co-workers.” Legal Ninja disagrees. Some of the best friendships come from the mutual respect co-workers can have for each other. But so often, these friendships do not develop in big law because everyone is so scared to be themselves. They often feel as though they have to behave “by the book” and socialize as if they were reading a manual. ”Ask how their weekend was – now.” These feelings come from the top. Many big law partners still subscribe to the old white shoe law firm mentality: “only talk when necessary, always be formal, business first, if you are laughing then you are not working.” Although many partners may feel this brings a certain amount of formality and seriousness to the profession, it kills the social instincts and creativity that make business people so successful. It also contributes to the high rates of depression and anxiety in attorneys.
Finding a place in big law that does not subscribe to this philosophy is a rare, but welcome thing. When you do find it, cherish it and stay there.
Tags: friendships
Sleep.
Sleep. But now you can afford a bigger bed.
