It’s December… and the finish line is in sight. Here’s how to survive the final stretch.
Ah, December. The office is a mix of festive cheer, looming deadlines, and the constant ticking of the clock toward the end of the year. For lawyers, this time can be especially intense, matters pile up, clients are still chasing responses, and somehow you’re expected to keep your cool while the paralegals and juniors start mentally checking out for the holidays.
If you’re feeling exhausted, stressed, or questioning why you became a lawyer in the first place, you are not alone. Career dissatisfaction is real: globally, many workers feel burned out, and legal professionals are no exception. Add in long hours, demanding partners, and high-stakes matters, and it’s easy to feel drained.
But before you draft your resignation letter or consider abandoning ship, there are practical ways to make the rest of the year, and your work, more bearable. Here’s how:
Do you need to do it all?
Ask yourself: are you doing everything you think is expected, or just what you assume is expected? Whether it’s answering emails instantly, attending every networking drinks event, or volunteering for every pro bono job, taking a small step back can help you reclaim energy and focus on what truly matters.Make it 1% better
Small changes can make a big difference. Could you delegate a task, reorganize your workflow, or tweak a process slightly? Consistently improving by even one percent can reduce stress and make day-to-day work more manageable.Schedule downtime
During December, also lock out time for non-work activities — family, friends, exercise, or simply a quiet moment. Treat it as seriously as a client meeting to ensure you actually take a break.Invest in your colleagues
Work besties are essential. A strong rapport with your team, whether associates, paralegals, or support staff, can make a huge difference to job satisfaction and morale.Know your worth
Loyalty is admirable, but law firms are businesses. While it’s not all about money, knowing you’re being paid well can make that final holiday slog a little easier, especially knowing you’ll have funds to enjoy the season. Protect your career growth and wellbeing by advocating for yourself, whether it’s seeking mentorship, flexible arrangements, or a fair allocation of work. [Check out our salary guide here to see how you compare.]Set clear boundaries
Set a firm log-off time and try stick to it. If your firm has an office shutdown, try to get everything organised so you can truly switch off. Be proactive in managing expectations with partners, clients, and colleagues about your holiday availability - clear communication helps reduce stress and avoids any last-minute surprises.Explore quietly
If you’re considering a move, you don’t have to act immediately. Stay aware of opportunities, network discreetly, and speak with a trusted recruiter. Knowing your options can reduce anxiety and help you make strategic career decisions.Job searches take time. If you do decide to transition, think long-term and have a contingency plan for finances, workload, and personal commitments [We could also do a link here to our jobs or books meeting]Protect your wellbeing
Your confidence and health are your most valuable assets. Don’t let a busy legal environment erode them. Take breaks, manage stress, and seek support if you need it, your future self will thank you.Reflect and plan
Use the quieter holiday period to review the year: wins, challenges, and lessons learned. Set realistic goals for the year ahead and start January with clarity and focus.
December can feel like a marathon in slow motion. But with perspective, small adjustments, and a focus on what truly matters, you can not only survive the final weeks of the year but set yourself up for a strong start in the new year.