Stop and Smell the Roses
Just as many things in life, your journey in law school is what YOU make it. This is a very broad sentiment but it’s important to know before entering a vigorous 3 years of your life. Something I learned very early on is to celebrate your wins…not matter how small you may think they are.
I remember distinct moments during law school - surviving my first cold call (the literal first class on my first day), passing my first midterm and final, getting my first A+, and making Dean’s List for the first time. I remember being excited and taking a moment to celebrate these accomplishments. But I had to learn how to celebrate myself as it was happening.
I think it’s easy as a law student to focus on what’s next, what needs to be done, and what exam I need to pass next. But after graduating law school and passing the Bar I can assure you it’s important to stop and smell the roses.
Most law students, including myself, have been smart, type A, and dedicated their whole academic career. We work hard, we accomplish, and we always raise the bar. But what we don’t learn to do is celebrate accomplishments and how to be satisfied/relieved for the moment. I taught myself this skill during law school. You work too hard to not stop for a moment and appreciate what you achieved.
So now you’re probably wondering - how did you celebrate yourself? It can be something as simple as sushi for dinner or giving yourself the night off after finishing a final you studied 100 hours for. Having a night out after surviving a cold call that lasted 2 hours for 2 consecutive classes (this really happened). Or it can be taking yourself on a shopping spree and buying a purse to commemorate passing the Bar exam! Whatever you decide your celebration should be, you should allow yourself to feel proud, relieved, and accomplished.
I can confidently say now as an lawyer looking back I’m so glad I stopped to smell the roses. Law school isn’t just about the academic accomplishments but it’s also about building yourself into the person you’re destined to be. It’s more than just your success but also about being proud of yourself every step of the way.
From one lawyer/former law student to another - stop to smell the roses - it’s what makes your journey unforgettable and amazing.
