If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? If not, what would you change?
Yes! I would certainly choose the same path for myself. The path which I took, though it was not easy it was certainly worthwhile. I would not trade this path as I was able to build character, learn, and have fun all while becoming successful in the end.
What are some tips to give to persons wanting to follow your career path?
I can perhaps write a book in answering this question. However, these are my top five tips for people wanting to follow my career path:
- Do not enter into the profession if you do not have a passion or love for it. Law is considered a jealous mistress and can be very overwhelming and under-rewarding especially when you are a newly minted Attorney. You will definitely need to love what you do to have longevity in the profession.
- Never be afraid to make mistakes and fail because those situations are your teachable moments. Mistakes and failure are not death sentences. If you are cognizant enough, you sometimes learn more when you fail or make a mistake.
- Be teachable and open to learning every day. Many people, especially young Attorneys or even Student Attorneys, believe they know it all. While you have to be confident and forthright in your dealings, there are still many things to learn.
- Make sure you network with others. Your networking should extend to persons who are advanced and senior to you in the profession as well as those on your level and those on their way up. Extending your networking reach to all three (3) levels allows you to be inspired to where you want to be, encourage, and be encouraged by those on your level and motivate others who are on their way up.
- Keep your integrity intact at all costs. The profession is deemed a noble one, but many persons often view Attorneys in a negative light. However, ensure that you are still honest, trustworthy, and prudent in your practice.