Above The Law reported recently about an American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division survey showing that 31 per cent of Big Law associates making $200K or more are afraid to take vacations. Why? Because they consider time away from the office as risky for promotions or salary increases. This is shocking — and harmful to both young lawyers and law firms.
First, law firms should insist that young lawyers take vacations. Law firms should not punish young lawyers for what was a condition of their employment. Seasoned lawyers should know that vacations are necessary to restore and recharge individual lawyers and to assure the best work products for the benefit of the firm.
Some firms may not be sending this message clearly enough. It is easy to talk the talk, but it needs to be more than lip service. Or it may be just cheap rhetoric to compete for the best talent.
And second, young lawyers must become better at looking out for themselves. My most recent book, New Lawyer Launch — The Handbook for Young Lawyers (Full Court Press, 2023), can help with that. The book includes material under headings “Pay Attention to Work-Life Balance” and “Get a Grip on Your Wellness” within the larger context of career planning. I emphasize paying close attention to time away from work as a long-range career strategy, and my book contributors agree. However, had I known at the time I wrote New Lawyer Launch that nearly 1/3 of all experienced Big Law associates hesitate taking vacation for fear of the salary and promotion repercussions, I would have devoted an entire chapter of that book to “TAKE VACATION!” I might have included sample destinations and itineraries to make it easier for you. I might have volunteered to drive you to the airport.
Seriously … just do it! For your sake, for the sake of your family and loved ones, and for the sake of your career. Not emphasizing your wellness can reflect poorly on your judgment, and a lawyer without good judgment is like a fish without water. The long-range prospects are not good for either.
And you must dispel any notions that you are impressing supervisors and managers with a decision to forego vacation. It just does not work that way. They don’t even notice.
So, it is time to start planning your next vacation and to take it when the time comes. Start planning next year’s vacation NOW. And if you suffer the repercussions you fear after taking that vacation, consider the possibility that you may be in the wrong workplace. Learning that lesson early is invaluable.
Bon voyage! Happy hiking! Embrace the waves! Whatever suits you. JUST DO IT!
