Law Practice
Dec. 29, 2016
Time management
The issue of time management is particularly challenging to sole practitioners accustomed to a 9-to-5 job.
GOING SOLO
One of the most significant challenges in starting a solo practice is managing your time. Time management is a topic which everyone seems to be familiar with, yet no one truly seems to master. We could all use more hours in the day, yet this issue is particularly challenging when you're accountable solely to yourself. For those who have grown accustomed to the structure of a 9-to-5 day, setting your own schedule can be daunting. But it doesn't have to be. In fact, being a solo attorney can be liberating, as long as you find a steady rhythm that allows you to handle business while continually improving.
Establishing a rhythm is important, especially when starting a solo practice. Following a routine can help you hold yourself accountable for weekly tasks, provide structure and organization and can help you feel productive during a period where clients and case work are scarce. During my first year I spent as much of my free time as possible on setting up a solid foundation for my practice. I took time to learn about the importance of search engine optimization and marketing techniques, spent time working on my website, and explored networking opportunities and local events.
I also took on various pro bono and low-fee opportunities, and volunteered as much as possible during that first year. This allowed me to gain valuable experience while I built up a client base, and also provided me the opportunity to work with those who needed legal advice and support. Even though I wasn't making significant money that first year, I considered all of these cases as an investment for the future of my practice. It also helped me fill out my schedule and keep negative thoughts away. More than anything it showed me in the most practical terms what life as a solo practice attorney was like, and that I could be successful at it.
Over time your weekly routine may include scheduling a particular day for consultations. You may set aside a day dedicated to administrative tasks and overview of cases. Or a monthly assessment of where you stand with respect to your short and long term goals. Creating a schedule allows you to manage things in a reflexive manner, and allows you to continue to assess your practice and find room to improve efficiency and growth.
In all of this you should remember that solo practice is a marathon and not a race. In an ideal setting you will continue to expand your practice and income, while improving the efficiency with which you handle cases. I have also found it rewarding to find time to explore other opportunities that you may be passionate about including new practice areas, community-based advocacy or even teaching. A steady path towards these things can keep you constantly motivated while preventing you from being overwhelmed.
Over time I have been able to change my schedule to meet goals that I have set for myself. This can include taking classes to learn a new language, or a skill which can complement your practice. Or simply finding the time to work on your own peace of mind and mental health. Sometimes you can take care of business and take a Friday completely off. After all what good is being your own boss if you can't find ways to take care of yourself and avoid burnout.
More than anything managing your time as a solo attorney is finding what works for you to achieve your own financial, professional and personal goals. This includes finding ways to run a successful and robust practice while still finding time to spend with your family, exploring your hobbies and living life. It may not happen overnight, but it is definitely something to aspire towards. After all, what is the point of going solo if you can't call the shots?
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