Maintaining a work life balance as a trainee solicitor

Maintaining hobbies and out of work interests while balancing a legal career can be difficult but it is possible. Katie is a 1st year trainee solicitor in Shoosmiths’ Glasgow office. Here, she discusses how she is balancing work with her interest in performing arts.

Balancing work commitments with personal interests can be particularly challenging for trainee solicitors. The desire to impress and show dedication to the team can mean longer hours, especially when busy deals are closing, or urgent tasks arise late in the day. However, maintaining hobbies is crucial for work-life balance, recharging energy, and supporting mental and physical health. Here’s how I manage to keep my passion for dance, musical theatre, and performing arts alive while working at Shoosmiths.

The importance of hobbies

Hobbies play a vital role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. They provide a necessary break from work, helping to recharge and rejuvenate. For me, dance and performing arts have always been a significant part of my life. These activities not only offer a creative outlet but also contribute to my overall well-being.

Communication and transparency

One of the key strategies I use to balance my commitments is clear communication with my supervisors and team. During busy weeks, I make sure to inform them about my rehearsal times. This allows me to manage my workload effectively, completing urgent tasks earlier in the day or letting my team know when I will be unavailable in the evening but can log back on later. This transparency helps manage expectations while demonstrating my commitment to the team.

Flexible working policies

Shoosmiths’ flexible working policy has been instrumental in helping me balance my work and personal commitments. The ability to work from home occasionally or adjust my start and finish times during show weeks has been incredibly beneficial. This flexibility allows me to participate in rehearsals and performances without compromising my work responsibilities.

Organisation and preparation

Being organised is essential for balancing work and hobbies. On nights when I have rehearsals from 7-10 pm, I ensure that I have packed my rehearsal clothes and prepared my dinner in advance. This preparation means that if urgent work arises and I can’t make it home in time, I can still attend rehearsals without stress. Small steps like these make a significant difference in managing both work and personal commitments.

Supportive work culture

The culture at Shoosmiths is another factor that makes balancing work and life easier. The firm is supportive of employees’ out-of-work commitments, whether they involve caring responsibilities, general life tasks, or hobbies and interests. This supportive environment fosters a sense of understanding and flexibility, making it easier to maintain a healthy balance.

Advice for trainee solicitors

For anyone starting as a trainee solicitor, my advice is to keep pursuing your hobbies and interests. They are invaluable for your well-being and can also enhance your professional skills. The transferable skills gained from hobbies, such as teamwork, time management, organisation, and confidence, are beneficial in legal work. Moreover, hobbies provide essential social, physical, and mental benefits that contribute to overall happiness and productivity.

In conclusion, balancing work commitments with personal interests is challenging but achievable with the right strategies. Clear communication, flexible working policies, organization, and a supportive work culture are key to maintaining this balance. By continuing to engage in hobbies, trainee solicitors can enjoy a fulfilling and well-rounded life, both professionally and personally.

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