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Ever wonder if it's possible to take a random afternoon off in Big Law without sacrificing your career? After nine years in the trenches, I've discovered something surprising: strategic breaks aren't just possible—they're essential for peak performance and ethical practice.

The legal profession glorifies constant availability and marathon work sessions, but what if we've been approaching this all wrong? Drawing from nearly a decade of experience, I reveal my counterintuitive approach to thriving in a high-pressure environment: occasionally walking away when my work is tidied up, even during a regular workweek. This isn't about slacking off—it's about recognizing that mental fatigue impairs judgment and increases errors.

The key lies in what I call "trust capital"—the professional credit built through years of reliability, exceptional work product, and dedication to both billable and non-billable contributions. By consistently meeting or exceeding expectations and demonstrating unwavering commitment to clients and colleagues, I've created space to prioritize well-being without compromising performance. This hard-earned platform allows me to model a different way of practicing law—one that acknowledges that our ethical duty of competence includes taking care of ourselves.

Whether you're a seasoned partner drowning in obligations or a new associate trying to find your footing, or anywhere in between, this episode offers a blueprint for building a sustainable legal career. Learn how to earn the trust that gives you freedom to set boundaries, when to take strategic breaks, and why rest isn't a luxury but a professional obligation. 

Join me in reimagining what success in law can look like—where excellence and well-being aren't competing priorities but essential partners. Subscribe now to continue the conversation about finding your own grace period in a profession that rarely stops to breathe.

Find out more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilystedman/.