3 Lessons Lawyers can Learn from Weird Al
Weird Al is one of those celebrities who you never really expect to find in the news. And when he does pop up, it's always something positive. Most recently for the lovable comedian, it was announced that he'll be getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
And while some lawyers might not think there's anything they can learn from the silly, frequently over the top comedian, they'd be wrong. Weird Al has cultivated his reputation expertly. He's pretty much squeaky-clean, known as a nice guy who makes people laugh, and has become rich and famous doing what he loves.
Below are three not-so weird lessons for lawyers that can be learned from Weird Al.
1. Do the Right Thing
You know all those parody songs Weird Al releases ... well, would you be shocked to learn that he gets permission from the artists before releasing them?
He's not looking to run headlong into trouble or cause controversy. He respects the artists and their judgment, and as one YouTube video explains, Michael Jackson's refusal to let him parody "Black or White" was potentially a career saving decision. His professionalism, even while joking around for a living, precedes itself and really helps his lovable image.
Being known for doing the right thing pays off in the short and long run.
2. Do What You Love
While Weird Al isn't the only kooky successful old guy to say that the secret to being happy is doing what you want, he is a fantastic example of it. And as he explain to Forbes, his own definition of success is making a living doing something you love.
For lawyers, it's about what you want, setting goals, and working to get there.
3. Don't Let Your Job Define You, Be You
It might seem easy for Weird Al to sit back from his current position and tell NPR: "You don't need to be defined by your job ... You can really kind of follow your muse." But this is absolutely true. You don't have to define yourself by your job. You can have interests and friends outside the profession. In fact, it's good for you and your practice.
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Related Resources:
- 3 Lessons Lawyers Can Learn From Alan Alda (FindLaw's Strategist)
- 3 Lessons From Paula Deen For Your . . . Law Firm? (FindLaw's Strategist)
- 4 Lessons for Young Attorneys: Game of Thrones Edition (FindLaw's Greedy Associates)
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