It’s no secret that the legal field is high-stress. When you’re working in a support role for a firm or corporation, you’re subject to the same stressors as the attorneys on staff. So how do you reduce stress when working as a paralegal? Here are some tips to help lessen your anxiety and keep your stress at bay.
Set Schedule Boundaries
Many attorneys work twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. But just because the people you support work this way doesn’t mean you have to. Start by setting boundaries around your schedule. You are available during business hours, and make it clear that you won’t be available to respond to messages or emails outside those boundaries.
Leave Work at Work
Leave work behind when you leave the office or close your computer for the day. It can be easy to think obsessively over your work, but this is not just bad for you but also for productivity. To help you leave work at work, spend a few minutes at the end of your day creating a to-do list for the following day, so you know nothing will fall through the cracks.
Use Technology
If you’re worried you’ll fall back into old habits of doing too much and burning out, use tools to help you. For example, set timers to help you stay on task but remind you to take a break. Use a meditation app to help you stay calm and focused. Use an organization app to ensure things aren’t missed, which would cause additional stress.
Be Mindful of Physical Health
Our mental health and physical health are entwined. When one is out of balance, you may see the effects in the other. Be mindful of your physical health, as it could be telling you something about your stress levels that you haven’t noticed before. Exercise and eating well impacts your mental well-being, so make time for both during the day.
Find a Healthy Outlet
You can’t be all work and no play, or you’re sure to experience burnout in your career. Make time for healthy outlets such as hobbies or other activities in your time away from work. Spend time with friends and family doing things you genuinely enjoy, including walking in the neighborhood, volunteering in the community, or working on a craft project that makes you happy.
Are you looking for a paralegal job that fits your lifestyle? Call NRI Legal Staffing today.
