If you're considering changing careers, you probably want to start by identifying your likes and dislikes. You might be unhappy with the way law practice is structured. Make a list. Next, consider how you can fit within the professional boundaries.
Changing careers as a lawyer
You have many options if you want to switch careers if you are a lawyer. For starters, you need to consider your work schedule. Many lawyers experience work-life conflict. Fortunately, lateral moves offer a solution. Also, you might consider other career options that can benefit from your law degree.
Write down what you like and don't like about your current job before making a move. You can create a list to help you choose the right career field and type of work. A list can also be used to help you search for an alternative profession to law.
You are looking for a job?
An attorney looking to move from the law to a new career has many options. NALP offers support and information on a variety of career options. They also publish a comprehensive list of relevant web sites and narratives of successful lawyers who made the switch. The non-law firm positions include government, education, policy research, and international affairs.
Although it can seem difficult, many lawyers don't necessarily have to leave their law practice to pursue a new career. Many lawyers find it challenging to leave their traditional law firm and look for another career that will allow them to have more time for their families and improve their quality of life. To find a new career as an attorney, it is important to be realistic and open to exploring other options.
Finding a job in a new field
You should weigh the pros and cons when you're considering changing jobs as a lawyer. You might be able to advance in your career by becoming a contract administrator for a Florida realty firm.
Lawyers who want to change careers can find many resources online. While most resources are focused on finding their first job in law, there are many resources online that can help you transition to a better position. Maria Stein and Wendy Werner, both legal career coaches, have extensive experience in helping lawyers find new jobs. Maria Stein, who is also the assistant dean of MSU Law College of Law, has spent decades mastering the art of career design.
Avoiding burnout
Lawyers often experience burnout. While lawyers can enjoy their profession, it is easy to lose sight on what makes their work worthwhile. It is important to be aware of the signs and ways to prevent burnout. You can do so by changing careers, practice areas, or even professions. You can make changes to improve your mental state, even though it might not be an option.
One of the first signs of burnout is feeling short-tempered and irritable. Your body produces adrenaline, which is a hormone that triggers your body's response to stress. Over-adrenalin can lead to a change in your body's metabolism and make you feel like you are going into survival mode. If you are feeling this way, it's time to take a break and evaluate how you run your practice.