The Oklahoma Bar Journal February 2025

F rom the E xecutive D irector

Staying Motivated as a Lawyer During the Winter Months

By Janet Johnson

T HE WINTER MONTHS CAN present unique challenges to maintaining motivation, especially in the demanding profession of law. As the days grow shorter and colder, it can be easy to slip into a pattern of low energy, diminished focus or even burnout. However, staying motivated during this time is essential to maintaining produc tivity, meeting client expectations and achieving personal career goals. So how can we combat this? How can we stay motivated during the winter months? I pro pose a few tips and tricks for you to consider. Winter can sometimes feel like a time for reflection and slowing down. However, it’s essential to use this time productively. One way to do so is by setting clear, measurable and achievable goals. Breaking down large projects into smaller, more manageable tasks can keep you on track while preventing you from feeling over whelmed. Whether it’s complet ing a specific number of billable hours, submitting filings or simply making progress on long-term cases, having a clear direction will keep you engaged. SET CLEAR AND ACHIEVABLE GOALS

designated breaks, set start and end times for the day and time for physical activity. Routines reduce the mental bur den of decision-making, allowing you to focus your energy on more productive tasks. Furthermore, adding personal routines, such as morning coffee or a brief walk during lunch, can help break up the monotony and reenergize you. PRACTICE SELF-CARE AND MAINTAIN ENERGY LEVELS The winter months can some times affect your physical and mental well-being. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a common condition during the colder months and can contribute to feelings of lethargy or sadness. To combat this, prioritize self-care,

Having both short-term and long-term goals is import ant. Short-term goals can help you focus on daily or weekly tasks, while long-term goals pro vide a larger sense of purpose. Celebrating small wins can give a sense of accomplishment and motivation to push forward. The colder weather can disrupt your routine, particularly when it gets harder to get out of bed or face a long commute. However, establishing and sticking to a consistent routine is critical for maintaining focus and motivation. Start by setting a regular work schedule, even if you’re working from home. This could include MAINTAIN A CONSISTENT ROUTINE

52 | FEBRUARY 2025

THE OKLAHOMA BAR JOURNAL