Today marks ten years of me being a lawyer. I'd like to share 10 thoughts about going about life as a lawyer.
 
Please note this isn't about being a better lawyer. There are far more experienced and capable people who've been explaining that, especially in this lockdown.

1. Anything can be dressed up as legally right or wrong. As lawyers we get used to an amoral analytical rule based articulation of day to day issues. It's important to keep that legal analysis out of our personal lives.

2. At the same time, legal methods often help resolve some intractable moral dilemmas outside the law. Don't discard them all together.

3. Actively cultivate respect for other forms of knowledge. Lawyers are snooty people and we are quick to judge others who do not know things that we take for granted. Remember, they know a lot of things we'll never wrap our heads around.

4. Lawyers are generally more politically conscious. It's a causal relationship but don't ask me which one is the cause. Point is, don't be exasperated with people who aren't. Share your views with them and try to convince them, but also give a wide margin.

5. Our language tends to get a) jargonized b) needlessly elaborate and c) repetitive. Being aware of it is halfway to curing it.

6. But lawyers also develop a capacity for precise articulation (and deliberate vagueness). These are good skills to employ in life as and when required.

7. Live a healthy life. The longer you are active the more money you make. Sorry if I sound mercenary about health, but this is a motivation lawyers best respond to.

8. You can decide if you want to be a lawyer when at work or make being a lawyer your whole identity. Or maybe that decision gets made for you. Anyway, neither is wrong and if anyone takes your trip, laugh it off.

9. If in (8) above you chose being a lawyer your whole identity. Get a life. If you can't get one, say hi to me in court once it reopens. I don't have a life either.

10. Last one for first generation lawyers.
 
You're the first lawyer in your circles. I know, from experience, it's difficult.
 
But remember, you're the first lawyer in your circles. Be there for those who have no other lawyer they can trust.