4 Lessons Learned After 4 Years in Business

Reflecting on the past four years of running my own law practice, I am filled with gratitude for the journey and the lessons learned along the way. Each lesson has been pivotal in shaping the success and growth of my practice. Here are the four most important lessons I’ve learned:

1. Build a Great Team and Be Good to Them

Managing employees is one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of running a business. It has allowed me to serve my clients more effectively and efficiently. The biggest complaint against lawyers is a lack of communication, and we pride ourselves on accessibility and responsiveness. This wouldn’t be possible without a great team behind me. I prioritize paying well and implementing family-first policies, which has helped me build an incredibly loyal team. Their dedication and hard work are the backbone of our success.

2. Hire a Coach/Mentor

Investing in a coach or mentor has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. They help you learn, grow, and stay accountable. I want to give a special shout-out to my two amazing coaches, Andrea Jacobs and Nancy Brodzki. Their guidance and support have been instrumental in my personal and professional development. Having someone to provide perspective, advice, and encouragement is invaluable.

3. Take Regular Time Off

To maintain a healthy work-life balance and avoid burnout, it’s essential to take regular time off. At our office, we close at noon on Fridays, take two weeks off for Christmas and New Year’s, and encourage each team member to take vacations during the summer. These breaks are crucial for recharging and returning to work with renewed energy and focus. It’s important to prioritize rest and relaxation to sustain long-term productivity and well-being.

4. Just Keep Going

Running a business is hard, and family law is even harder. However, the challenges I’ve faced in my past have taught me the strength that comes from just showing up every day. There will be ups and downs, but persistence is key. By not quitting, you will find success, whether it’s in rebuilding your life after a divorce, recovering from addiction, or building a business. The willingness to keep moving forward, despite the obstacles, is what ultimately leads to achievement and growth.

Conclusion

These four lessons have been the cornerstones of my journey over the past four years. Building a great team, investing in mentorship, taking time off, and persevering through challenges have not only helped my business thrive but have also enriched my personal life. As I look forward to the future, I am excited to continue learning and growing, both as an individual and as a business owner. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. Here’s to many more years of success and growth!