Five Stress Management Tips for Busy Attorneys (+ One Bonus Tip!)

Practicing law can be relentless. Between client demands, tight deadlines, and court appearances, many attorneys operate in a constant state of heightened stress. Over time, this pressure can build up and negatively impact productivity, decision-making, and overall well-being. Here are five practical stress management strategies to help keep burnout at bay:

1. Set Boundaries – and stick to them

It’s easy to let work infiltrate other aspects of your life, which can lead to fatigue and burnout. Protect your personal time like you would a court date: Set firm working hours and stick to them; turn off notifications after a certain time; and schedule time for self-care, such as for exercising, spending time with loved ones, or engaging in a hobby. 

2. Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize

Not all tasks are created equal. Identify what really needs your attention. Delegating tasks or postponing less critical work can free up valuable mental space.  Making a list of priorities each evening can be very helpful.

3. Take Micro-Breaks

Throughout the day, be mindful of your breathing and take frequent breaks. Even just two to three minutes per hour of deep breathing can go far in relaxing the body and mind.  Taking a five to 10 minute walk outside a couple of times during the workday or even standing up to stretch between calls can make a big difference in your focus and stress levels.

4. Lean on Technology

Automated calendaring, case management software, and secure communication tools can save hours of administrative work. If you're still doing things manually, even small tech upgrades can drastically reduce daily friction.

5. Stay Connected

Law can be isolating, especially in solo practice or if you work remotely. Regular check-ins with colleagues or mentors, even informal ones, can provide not only support but also fresh perspectives on tough cases or client dynamics. 

Bonus Tip: Don’t Go It Alone – Consider Using a Per Diem Attorney

Managing a packed conference and motion calendar can be overwhelming.  A highly effective solution is using a per diem attorney to handle court appearances. It’s a smart way to maintain coverage without spreading yourself too thin, especially on heavy calendar days or when you are on trial.  Think of it less as outsourcing, and more as strategic delegation.

Stress may be part of the legal profession, but burnout doesn’t have to be. By being proactive and thoughtful about how you manage your workload, you can stay sharp, effective, and even enjoy the practice of law a little bit more.