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In-House Legal Tip: Take Time Off
A good holiday underpins many months of elevated in-house performance.
2 minutes • 04 Dec 23
“Mental health issues are on the rise - and it is no wonder. Darwinian theory tells us that we evolved to “flee” from Sabre tooth tigers, not deal with emails sent in error, tech that doesnt work, a missed promotion, unrealistic demands, etc. Operating in today’s society is tough X 10 when you are in-house. As such, you have to prioritise your well being. And this means that a great holiday is an essential investment into your career (and beyond)."
Matthew Glynn (Managing Director, GLS Group)
Burnout doesn't make you a better lawyer. It just makes you broken.
As we approach what is the most important holiday season of the year for most of it – it is timely to reflect on the importance of taking a good break.
For in-house lawyers - taking truly restive holidays are not a luxury and should not be thought of as such. If you don’t service the machinery, it will break. You are no different.
Taking good rest is a critical part of being a highly effective lawyer. Here's why:
- Mental Rejuvenation: Breaks recharge your mind, fostering clarity and creativity.
- Enhanced Productivity: Regular time off correlates with increased on-the-job efficiency.
- Health Matters: Stress takes a toll; breaks contribute to better physical and mental well-being.
- Prevents Burnout: Consistent breaks are a shield against the pervasive threat of professional burnout.
- Quality Decision-Making: A rested mind makes better, more considered decisions.
- Work-Life Balance: Prioritize personal time for a healthier work-life equilibrium.
- Long-Term Sustainability: Sustainable performance requires periodic recharging.
- Boosts Morale: Time off is a morale booster, improving overall job satisfaction.
- Creativity Thrives: Innovation often sprouts during moments of relaxation.
- Quality Relationships: Strengthen personal connections, a crucial aspect of holistic well-being.
So, what does a good holiday look like? Observe these 5 golden rules at all times.
- At least one 2 week holiday once a year.
2. Be completely unavailable
3. Zero checking of your emails
4. Organise your workload before you go
5. Give you loved ones your undivided attention
Taking time off isn't a luxury; it's an investment in sustained excellence. Prioritize your well-being; it's the cornerstone of long-term professional success and family harmony.
If you want more in-house legal team performance and career insights – please do join the GLS Legal Operations Community for free right here.
Observations & Tips:
- Plan your holidays in advance
- The inability to take a disturbance free holiday means your legal dept is not running effectively
- Observe the 5 golden rules for a proper holiday
- Holidays are not a workers luxury - they underpin ongoing quality performance
- You owe your loved ones your undivided attention
- The cemetery is filled with people who were irreplaceable
