The Dangers of Myopia—Do You Have a Clear View of Your Own Professional Value?

Your experience in law school can set you up for this loss of perspective. Some schools define success as a federal clerkship, followed by the big firm job. A continued successful trajectory is further described as receiving mentoring from a firm superstar, achieving independence at certain tasks, gaining direct contact with clients, joining the attorneys in giving "beauty shows" to clients, leading the pack in billable hours, and receiving the largest bonuses. Finally, achieving partnership is the unambiguous acknowledgement of excellence and achievement-to some.

I feel fortunate indeed in having attended a law school where public interest pursuits in the law were equally if not more embraced than big firm financial success. Many of us heading to the big firms felt a bit sheepish about "going after the money" while a number of our classmates bit the bullet and went out to "right the wrongs" on a path that required personal sacrifice. Of course, these decisions were never that simplistic. Yet I believe that having close classmates in a small student body with very divergent views of "success" provided passive immunization against succumbing to a very narrow definition of personal achievement by big firm standards.


But even with this background, if you spend many hours per day for many years with a very select group of highly accomplished people who subscribe to the same standards of evaluation, and who are compared against each other repeatedly, then you can lose all sight of your value in the broader context of your profession. I have watched attorneys sink into depression and become apologetic when their only misdeed was to bill less than 2,000 hours, or to have the wrong political alliances within their firm. Many of these individuals had earned multiple impressive degrees, achieved strong grades, and come from successful non-legal careers. Many of them do great work and have strong client relationships. Yet, short-sightedness, or "myopia," in terms of seeing the bigger picture had led them to consider abandoning their legal careers when, in truth, they would have realized that they were near the top of their profession if they could have stepped back and seen the broader context.

How does one keep a good sense of professional identity? First, it is vitally important to maintain a network of attorney colleagues outside your firm. These individuals can give you reality checks in terms of how other attorneys with backgrounds similar to yours are perceived by other firms and by clients. Being involved in professional groups, industry groups, and long-term client relationships can sustain you when your firm may be sending you the message that you are less than perfect. In addition, a trusting relationship with a recruiter can be a source of frank and impartial feedback in terms of how your background is viewed in the legal market. If your current firm makes you feel inadequate or apologetic, it behooves you to get a second opinion. Don't give one entity the power to define your professional worth, but at the same time be open to revisiting problematic professional issues that you may need to address. Many times, a change of scenery and a different mix of colleagues can make all the difference in how you see yourself as an attorney.

We are all vulnerable to doubt and wondering if we are good enough. Yet I would bet that the majority of people reading this article are among the most educated and skilled individuals of their generation. Don't lose sight of who you are, and find the right place to flourish.

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.