Most lawyers fall into the category of Type A personalities. We have bounced around from activity to activity since grade school, all while trying to keep up with our studies or career and always looking ahead to the next level.
And you know what? It is exhausting.
It’s OK to admit it. We all have more on our plate than we can handle and live under the constant pressure of perfection and being asked to do more because that is what is expected of us in our careers.
But being involved for the sake of being involved is not the way to go about it. Rather, you should get involved with purpose.
I encourage all the young lawyers to get involved with the Young Lawyers Section. Not just because it is good for your career, which it is; or because it is a great opportunity to network with other lawyers and the judiciary, which it is.
You should get involved because it is the opportunity to be a part of something fulfilling, something that makes a difference in the community, and something so profound that it will not feel like you just added something to your plate.
The YLS is fun and we host happy hours and other networking events for our members. But the group also dedicates the bulk of its programs to service to the community. That includes the legal community as well as the community-at-large.
This past year, the YLS organized and executed three major charity fundraisers: the annual golf tournament, poker tournament and chili cook-off.
Combined, those events raised more than $20,000 this past year.
The YLS also hosts Holidays in January each year to give foster kids a special day at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, complete with gifts and a visit from Santa Claus.
Last year, the section founded a partnership with Jean Ribault High School to pair attorneys and judges with students through a mentorship program.
This year, the students will participate in a mock trial competition hosted by the YLS on May 12 at the Bryan Simpson U.S. Courthouse.
The YLS is dedicated to its mission of mentoring young lawyers and transforming them into leaders in our legal community.
Getting involved, particularly early in your career, opens doors to leadership positions at both the local and state levels.
Just ask YLS President Christian George, who started with the group early and will soon assume the role of president of The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division.
So, why do I ask a group of overextended, exhausted lawyers to take on more? It’s because the YLS is an opportunity to do something different and make an impact for years to come.
You are doing more than being involved for the sake of being involved. It is a place where bright young lawyers can evolve into leaders. It’s also a place for you to find your mission as a lawyer and community leader and get involved with purpose.
Getting involved is easy. You can reach out to me at [email protected]. (No, I do not get free biscuits every day).
Be on the lookout for information regarding our upcoming board elections. This year, there are four open seats and we are looking for candidates who want to be a part of something big. Winners will be announced at the YLS annual meeting on June 8.