How to Make Your New Year’s Resolutions Stick
By Jamy J. Sullivan, JD, Robert Half
Question:
How can I set realistic goals and stick to my New Year's resolutions to help ramp up my legal career in 2024?
Answer:
The change of the calendar year often comes with a wave of optimism and a list of resolutions. But as the weeks pass, enthusiasm can wane and your plans for the new year may fall by the wayside. For legal professionals, keeping career resolutions on track requires a blend of firm commitment to goals and the willingness to explore different pathways to attain them.
Imagine you’re a paralegal aiming to enhance your project management skills. The journey begins with setting a specific, achievable goal. Rather than a vague resolution like "improve project management," define what success looks like — such as "complete a certified course in legal project management by June." Specific goals are more actionable and measurable.
Integrating resolutions into daily routines
Next, integrate your resolution into your daily routine. If your goal is to improve client communication, you might start by dedicating the first 30 minutes of your day to client updates. This commitment turns your resolution into a habit, reducing the chances of it being overlooked.
Another essential factor is seeking support and accountability. Let’s say you're a legal assistant aspiring to move into a paralegal role. Share your goal with your supervisor or a mentor. They can provide guidance, resources and that gentle nudge if you start to slip.
Likewise, nurturing a sense of camaraderie and healthy competition with colleagues can bolster your resolve. To master new legal software, enroll in workshops or webinars and mark them on your calendar to create a sense of commitment. Engage with peers following a similar path. Their progress can inspire you and vice versa.
Adapting goals and celebrating milestones
Regular reflection and adjustment are also vital. The legal landscape is dynamic, and your career resolutions should be flexible enough to adapt. If you're an attorney early in your career path who aimed to lead a trial but find yourself drawn more to mediation, adjust your goals accordingly. It’s important to progress in a direction that matches your evolving interests and the industry’s needs.
Lastly, celebrate your milestones no matter how small. Giving yourself a pat on the back sustains your motivation. Whether it's mastering a new legal research tool or successfully managing a complex case, every step forward is worth recognizing.
Jamy J. Sullivan is executive director of the legal practice at Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. Robert Half offers contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions, and is the parent company of Protiviti®, a global consulting firm. Visit RobertHalf.com.