“Lawyers are like athletes who wouldn’t take care of their bodies—it would be unheard of. Yet maybe 10, 15 years ago, athletes were expected to be naturally good at what they did,” observes Antoinette Moriarty, Psychotherapist at the Law Society of Ireland, during a recent Platforum9 session. As legal professionals race toward year-end, Moriarty brings unique insights from her two decades of experience working with lawyers to help navigate this challenging period.
Understanding the Year-End Challenge
The end of year represents what Moriarty calls a “constellation” of pressures. Beyond the obvious deadlines, financial obligations, and reduced daylight hours, there’s a deeper psychological dimension. “The termination of anything is challenging for us,” she explains. “It sets up a kind of questioning which is quite existential.”
This period forces confrontation with various forms of loss—whether it’s team members, pieces of work, or simply certainty itself. In an era where expertise and knowledge have become secondary to managing rapid developments like AI, the psychological burden can be significant.
The Seasons of the Mind
While law firms often treat all seasons identically, Moriarty argues for recognizing natural rhythms. “There are seasons of the mind,” she notes, “and I think that’s really important actually.” Rather than fighting against the natural inclination toward reflection and retreat during winter months, she suggests embracing it.
“When I work with clients, I would always say to them, there is a November for a reason. It’s not just one long, dreary month of grey skies. It is an opportunity to really retrench,” Moriarty explains, drawing parallels with the natural world’s cycles of rest and renewal.
Rethinking Professional Rituals
The traditional year-end celebrations and rituals, while important, might benefit from reimagining. Rather than defaulting to alcohol-centered gatherings, Moriarty suggests considering alternatives that better serve psychological well-being. “Could that be a walk? Could that be a really energizing march around a park with two hot coffees rather than wine in an elaborate, noisy setting?”
She emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful rituals that reflect organizational values and support professional development. This might include recognition ceremonies that acknowledge achievements and growth, or team-building activities that strengthen relationships.
The Power of Authentic Recognition
In professional services, where criticism and problem-spotting are ingrained, Moriarty advocates for increased focus on praise and recognition. “If you go around looking for what you’ve done so that you can push some kind of energy towards that, you’ll find that of course renews and regenerates in a way that catching ourselves doing badly will never do.”
This approach aligns with neurobiological needs—safety, motivation, and reward—which are essential for optimal functioning. The year-end period offers a perfect opportunity to implement this more nurturing approach.
Practical Strategies for Year-End Success
Moriarty offers several concrete suggestions for managing the season:
- Start retreating earlier, using November as preparation time
- Reframe year-end reviews to focus on growth rather than judgment
- Consider alternative ways of celebrating and showing appreciation
- Invest in meaningful, personalized gestures rather than generic gifts
- Create opportunities for authentic connection and recognition
Looking Forward
The end of year, while challenging, presents opportunities for meaningful reflection and connection. “Don’t be afraid to wear your heart a little bit more on your sleeve at this time of the year,” Moriarty advises, suggesting personal touches like handwritten notes that demonstrate genuine appreciation and understanding.
The key is finding balance between professional obligations and human needs. As Moriarty concludes, “Those small gestures of humanity and kindness go so much further” in creating a sustainable and thriving professional environment.
