Tips on Productivity: Go Slow and Steady

Many years ago, I drove a 1969 Volkswagen almost 1,000 miles up and down the California coast to attend a deposition.

It was a beautiful trip, especially along the cliffy stretch between San Simeon and Carmel. Not everybody gets to see it because sometimes rock slides cover the highway. As I look back now, I realize how that drive taught me something about life.

Slow and steady wins the race. It's as true on a road trip as it is in law life. Here are some tips to help you manage your productivity in a busy law practice:

Good Fuel: Eating Right Increases Energy

Like a car, a lawyer needs good fuel to go. It's so easy to live through the drive-through, but it's better to sit down and eat something healthy.

To boost your energy with your diet, Harvard Health Publications recommends eating small meals regularly and often, using caffeine wisely, drinking lots of water, and limiting alcohol.

Take Breaks

Even cross-country truck drivers take breaks. Race car drivers and attorneys need them, too.

Your body will tell you when; just check your gauges for work/life balance. One law firm recently added napping pods to its office to help sleep-deprived lawyers take more effective breaks.

Let 'Em Pass

Too many people road-rage through life. Opposing counsel, demanding clients; let 'em pass.

"Nothing can drain a battery faster than working with the wrong client," says lifestyle author Clara Capano.

Eyes on the Road: Avoid Multi-Tasking

Nowadays, people are killing themselves with their phones -- texting while driving, for example.

A fast-paced, multi-tasking lifestyle can do it, too. Not only will it stress you out, studies say multi-taking makes you less productive because you lose focus.

When you take it easy on life's road, you may not get to the end as fast as others. But do you really want to rush it?

By the way, that Volkswagen is a classic now and the client was happy in the end.

Related Resources:

• Sleep-Deprived Lawyers Get Ready: Law Firm Adds Napping Pods FindLaw's Strategist)
• Want to Make Your Firm More Productive? Add Nap Time (FindLaw's Strategist)
• Solo Lawyers: Tips for Working on Your Summer Vacation (FindLaw's Strategist)