San Francisco Lawyer Jeena Cho's Advice and Recommendation for Mindfulness

San Francisco lawyer Jeena Cho, who runs a successful small bankruptcy law firm practice, is interviewed by Chris Bradley this week in the Lawyerist. I know you'll enjoy reading the article. Jeena provides practical advice for law students and new attorneys, some of which is excerpted below. She also describes how to use mindfulness to reduce stress and bring focus and attention to your life as a lawyer. Jeena describes it as medicine for your mind and for your law practice. She discusses how to use mindfulness to deal with stressful situations, and how you can bring mindfulness to bear in your interactions with stressed out clients and opposing counsel. Happy reading!

Any advice for law students or young lawyers who might consider walking in your shoes?

1. Be yourself. “Be yourself” is a cliche, I know, but lots of lawyers have this herd mentality. We should be creating our own unique brand and identity, but instead we carbon copy what everyone else does. Don’t be like every other lawyer. Figure out what makes you unique, what makes you shine, and capitalize on that.
2. Write. A lot. Your words are the most powerful tool you have. Practice. Often.
3. Be patient. There are no short-cuts. Be excellent. Do your best and success will eventually follow.
4. Pay off student loans as quickly as possible.
5. Save. I wish I started saving in my twenties and paid more on my student loans instead of upgrading my lifestyle. Save early and save consistently. Let the magic of compound interest work for you.

- Jan Nussbaum