How Your Firm Can Benefit from Preschool Methodology
Google Ventures, a leader in technological innovation, has adopted a rather simple way of keeping track of time during meetings -- the Magic Clock. Not really "magic," the term is borrowed from grade schools. Jake Knapp, a design partner at Google Ventures, saw it in his son's first grade classroom, and said, "I figured what worked for small children would probably work well for CEOs, too," reports Entrepreneur.
So that got us thinking, what else can we borrow from preschool and first grade methodology to make law firms run more efficiently? After all, we're just more articulate versions of our preschool selves, right? The key thing about preschool and first grade is that students' time is very structured. By adding more structure to your time, you may use the little time you have more efficiently.
1. The Magic Clock
Ok, back to the Magic Clock -- also known as the Time Timer, it shows remaining time in red and beeps when time is up. According to Knapp, "It makes time visible and tangible." And if one thing is valuable to lawyers, it's making the most of their time.
2. Nap Time
Oh, nap time. We envy preschoolers (and Spaniards) for their precious siestas. Some companies and firms go so far as dedicating napping rooms in their offices. While that's not for every firm, sometimes 15 minutes of shut eye are enough to get you through the rest of the day. Just close the door to your office and set an alarm.
3. Recess
Um, no, we don't mean you should go outside and wave your arms and yell like a crazy person preschoolers. But we want to remind you of the importance of making time to do the things you love. Yes, squeezing in a workout can be challenging but you just need to set aside some time for yourself. Whether it's before, during or after work, make sure to schedule "me" time.
4. Circle Time
Circle time is a chance for everyone in the office to get together and get caught up on what everyone is working on. It also gives a sense of working on a team, and promotes communication among co-workers. Lots of companies do this in the guise of stand up meetings or water-cooler meetings. We hear it works.
5. Lunch Time // Snack Time
You need to eat -- and sometimes it's nice to get away from your desk. Ideally, you won't eat at your desk, but if you must, even just a quick walk to get your food may be a small enough break for you to recharge a bit, and look at your work with fresh eyes. Also, don't underestimate the benefits of healthy snacking -- emphasis on healthy.
It's easy to get overwhelmed and complain about how little time you have. Sometimes you need to take a step back to make some changes and reorganize. Perhaps we can learn from preschoolers, and by adding more structure to our day, we may become more efficient.
Want to spend more time practicing, and less time advertising? Leave the marketing to the experts.
Related Resources:
- Four Reasons Why You Should Bring Lunch to Work (FindLaw's Greedy Associates Blog)
- Be a Better Attorney: 5 Tips to Optimize Your Nap Time (FindLaw's Strategist Blog)
- Lawyers: Stop Sitting, Start Raising the Roof? (FindLaw's Greedy Associates Blog)