HOW TO NAVIGATE CHANGE

Humans can be a paradox at times. We are incredibly resilient and adaptable creatures, yet the brain is wired to resist change. Change is threatening to predictability, certainty, and our sense of security. The mind will come up with many fear-based scenarios for adverse outcomes. The lawyer brain has super-hero abilities to spot potential negative outcomes and avoid risk.

However, the world is in a constant state of change and evolution. You have a choice: resist change or embrace it. Fight to keep the status quo or expect change and be open-minded. You can seek change or only adapt when forced to. We don’t have control over life events, but we can choose how we respond.

Change is an inevitable and constant factor in the legal profession. Technological advancements, regulation shifts, economic fluctuations, and societal trends impact how lawyers operate and succeed in their careers. Managing change effectively is a crucial skill for navigating the ever-evolving legal landscape. Below are 10 strategies to help you navigate change so you can continue to deliver outstanding legal services and maintain high levels of well-being.

1. Embrace a Growth Mindset

The first step in managing change is to adopt a growth mindset. This mindset means you thrive on challenges and don’t see failure as a way to describe yourself but as a springboard for growth and developing your abilities. When faced with change, lawyers and legal professionals with a growth mindset view it as an opportunity to learn and develop new skills. This outlook enables you to approach challenges with a sense of curiosity and openness, ultimately making the process of adapting to change smoother and more productive.

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Flexibility is a key trait in effectively managing change. Lawyers must be prepared to pivot their strategies, approaches, and business models when necessary. Flexibility also involves being open to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of doing things. This can lead to innovative solutions and an increased ability to adapt to unforeseen challenges. The pandemic forced lawyers and all businesses to innovate and pivot strategies, many of which had positive outcomes and are the new norm.

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Radical acceptance is the psychological skill and ability to accept situations that are outside of our control without judging them, which in turn reduces the suffering that is caused by them. Acceptance does not require approval of the situation or change. Instead, it is accepting and working with reality as it is rather than arguing with reality or trying to fight against it. You still have thoughts and emotions about the situation, but you watch and monitor those so you don’t allow yourself to feel worse than necessary. You refrain from complaining, blaming, gossiping, and being pessimistic. Acceptance reduces stress and emotional reactivity.

Change often involves collaboration and communication. Building and nurturing strong professional relationships is crucial for managing change effectively. Lawyers can benefit from networking with colleagues, mentors, clients, and even competitors. These relationships provide opportunities for knowledge sharing, support, and exchanging ideas. You may be squaring off against each other on cases and in the courtroom, but ultimately you are all in the same profession and experience the same challenges. It is an opportunity for community and camaraderie rather than loneliness and isolation, which is prevalent in the legal industry. There is an abundance of client work to go around. Sharing ideas on managing the business aspects of practicing law strengthens the legal profession and ultimately provides better services for your clients.

5. Develop Change Management Plans

Incorporating change management plans into law firms’ operational strategies can facilitate a smoother transition during times of change. These plans outline the steps required to implement change, identify potential challenges, and provide strategies for overcoming obstacles. Communication is a crucial element of change management plans; ensuring that all team members are aware of the changes and their implications can help alleviate uncertainty and resistance.

7. Encourage Open Communication

Transparent and open communication is fundamental to managing change successfully. Create a firm culture where team members feel comfortable discussing their concerns, asking questions, and providing feedback. By openly addressing any doubts or fears, lawyers and supporting staff can foster a sense of unity and reduce the resistance that often accompanies change.

8. Focus on Technology

The legal industry is undergoing a significant technological transformation. Lawyers need to embrace technology and understand its potential impact on their practice areas. Whether it’s legal research tools, case management software, or communication platforms, technology can enhance efficiency and streamline processes (which significantly reduces cognitive workload and stress for the lawyer). Investing in the right tools and platforms can help lawyers adapt to changing client expectations and market demands.

9. Lead by Example

Law firm leaders play a pivotal role in guiding their teams through change. Leading by example means demonstrating a positive attitude towards change, showcasing adaptability, and actively participating in the transition process. Leaders need to expect there will be resistance. You can acknowledge the change will be challenging and that there will be road bumps but model an attitude of problem-solving and perseverance through the changes. When leaders show enthusiasm for change and effectively navigate its challenges, they inspire their teams to follow suit.

10. Manage Stress and Well-being

Of course, I need to discuss stress and well-being. Making changes on an individual or organizational level adds stressors to an already full plate. It’s essential to prioritize mental and physical well-being for yourself and your employees during times of change. Practicing stress-reduction techniques daily, engaging in life outside of work, and seeking support when needed are all crucial for sustaining resilience and effectively managing change.

The pace at which the world changes and evolves has rapidly accelerated, whether we like it or not. While humans may be naturally resistant to change, the above strategies are a few ways to help you and your organization navigate change with confidence and resilience.

By: Joanie Stallard Stewart Assistant District Attorney, Third Judicial District