Most of what we do we do out of habit. We do the same things, the same way, and rarely think about it.
We evaluate cases the same way we always have. We use the same process to decide to take them, settle them, try them, and drop them.
We solve problems, draft documents, conduct depos and hearings and trials pretty much the same way this year as we did ten years ago.
We talk to friends and family the same way as we have always done. We buy the same computers and software, hire the same employees and vendors, and conduct our life and business very much the same as we have before.
Not much changes from day-to-day.
This is a good thing if everything is working well, but a problem if it’s not.
Which means at all times, we must stay alert and be prepared to anticipate and fix problems and take steps to avoid or lesson them in the future.
But even if all is well, we’re safe and profitable and growing and happy, even if what we’re doing is clearly working, we don’t know if there’s something we could do that might work better.
Unless we ask.
In fact, we should always assume there are improvements we could make and regularly look for them. Ways to lower costs, increase profits, and improve our systems.
We must examine, evaluate, and interrogate everything we do. Train ourselves to pay attention to everything and everyone. And ask lots of questions.
That means doing quarterly and annual reviews of our entire operation, in addition to our weekly reviews.
It’s how we know what’s working and what needs fixing. It’s how we can follow the sage advice to “Hold on to what’s working and let go of what isn’t”.
Effectively managing a successful law practice and happy life depends on it.
