Lawyer Life Experiment

This episode explores why our best decisions come from combining logic with the wisdom of our gut, heart and emotions - not relying on reason alone. We unpack how emotions are valuable data that can guide us toward what truly matters. E-motion = energy in motion. We invite you to pause at the year's midpoint to create a vision board based on emotional energy and subconscious rather than pract...

 In this episode of the Lawyer Life Experiment , we explore why motivation dips in law often signal misalignment and not fatigue, and how pushing harder can actually make things worse. We unpack the quiet guilt of wanting something different in a profession built on endurance, and test a simple three-question experiment to help you reconnect with what drives (and drains) you. If you’ve ever wonder...

In this episode, Frieda and Anya explore the often uncomfortable gap between how we experience ourselves and how others experience us, and why that gap matters more than we think.  Drawing on insights from reputable leadership development research (Leadership Circle, Hogan assessments, Johari window), we unpack how reputations are formed (with or without our input), how perception shapes opportuni...

As the year draws to a close, we reflect on how we’re really finishing it — and why looking at the facts can tell a very different story from memory or gut feeling. In this episode, we talk about goal-setting: how to set stretch goals, the difference between directional intentions and SMART goals, and why reviewing the evidence of your year can be surprisingly empowering. It’s a conversation about...

In this episode, we explore the surprising power of group coaching — how it differs from 1:1 coaching and why it can be such a transformative space for lawyers. We unpack the research-based benefits of group coaching. Of which #1 is how learning from others’ perspectives — especially those in similar roles — challenges your habits, expands your thinking, and helps you grow bolder in your career. ...

In this episode of #Lawyer Life Experiment , we dive into the concept of mental toughness —what it really means, is it innate or can it be developed (good news spoiler: yes, it is a skill and can be built up as a muscle), how it differs from resilience and grit, and why it’s essential for lawyers navigating high-pressure environments. We explore how mental toughness can be developed intentionally...

In this episode, we unpack the myth of "good" and "bad" emotions, explore how emotional rigidity, denial, and pressure to stay positive can harm our well-being and performance. We explain how emotions are data (not directives), and discuss how to navigate feelings - like anger or vulnerability - in environments that often suppress them, eg work. The truth about emotions is - “w...

Do you ever ask yourself, “Am I even capable of becoming a partner, an impactful leader, building a business, or [insert your own dream here]?” In this episode, we explore what it means to feel stuck and ask who we really are - unpacking identity, is it fixed or flexible, nature vs. nurture, internal beliefs, and the glass ceilings we place on our potential. We examine how recognising our past cho...

In this deeply personal episode, we open up about our own experiences with grief and how work showed up - both for better and worse. We explore the reality of grief at work, the fear of sharing and why colleagues often don’t know what to say. We ask: (i) Why is grief so hard to talk about at work? (ii) How can we be more open about what we need when grieving? (iii) What role do colleagues and mana...

In this episode, we delve into the value of visualising your future to set a clear direction, so that you can focus on what truly matters. We also share our approaches to end-of-year reflections, combining thoughtful insights with a bit of fun to round off the year meaningfully.  We encourage you to take some time this holiday to reflect on 2024, so that you can mindfully enter 2025. We love heari...

 In this episode, we reflect on how we approach the question of “What’s next?”—whether it’s short-term (1-2 years), mid-term (5-10 years), or long-term (retirement). This question often touches on sensitive topics like identity, relevance, purpose, fears of the unknown, finances, and the physical and health challenges of ageing (including menopause for women). Join us as we explore how to navigate...

In this episode, Frieda and Anya dive into the nuanced differences between perfectionism and the pursuit of excellence, exploring how each mindset impacts personal and professional growth. The hypothesis for this episode is the following: “Perfection inhibits growth, while promotion of excellence promotes agility and growth.” Awareness of the triggers that lead to perfectionism is crucial, yet so...

Feedback that is constructive—highlighting what you do well and identifying actionable areas for development—is great! But what do you do when you receive feedback that feels purely critical, that hits your confidence and self-esteem, that makes you ruminate on it, and that makes you play it safe next time? In this episode, Anya and Frieda discuss how to manage negative feedback well and use it to...

This month's episode focuses on how to cultivate workplace wellness and create a mentally healthy culture in the corporate environment. Amongst other things, Anya and Frieda explore why mental health is still an issue in big corporates (particularly the legal industry), whose responsibility mental health is in the context of the workplace, and what organisations can do to create healthier wor...

"I should have been made partner by now. I'm a failure." "I can't manage the load - does this mean I am weak?" "I don't see anybody else complaining, so there is something wrong with me." "I should try harder!" "I sound really stupid." "Gosh, am I fat. What a slob." How do you speak to yourself? Is it with the same kindness...

Whether you're a seasoned reflector or a first-time voyager into end-of-year introspection, join us as we talk about how individuals and cultures around the world pause to ponder, learn and envision anew as they bid farewell to another year. We are believers that end-of-year reflection is good for you - for your brain, body and soul. It helps you notice your successes, and so it alleviates st...

In this episode of the Lawyer Life Experiment, Anya and Frieda go scientific! We delve into two psychological models to discuss the often unseen forces of influence that guide and shape our everyday decisions - the systems each of us is part of. Join us as we explain these two ways for you to look at the systems you are part of and reveal the profound impact they have on the choices that define yo...

Anyone can feel unsure about themselves, and people experience it in different ways. It ranges from healthy self-reflection (e.g., 'I'm not yet good at networking') to debilitating self-doubt (e.g., 'I can't ask for a promotion because I'm not worthy' or 'Someone will find out one day that I am a bad lawyer and a fraud'). In this episode, we explore tha...

As Anya approaches her 40th birthday in September and with Frieda already having two years of experience in her 40s, we dive into a discussion about midlife. We explore the juggling act of family, caregiving, health and career challenges that define this phase of life. We share the invaluable lessons we've learned. We celebrate the unique gifts that midlife brings. Join us for an honest conve...

In this episode, Anya and Frieda explore the theme of getting unstuck in our romantic relationships and in our careers. We all sometimes find ourselves feeling lost or stuck, walking in a fog. These books take us on a journey of self-discovery, unconventional strategies for reinvention and finding your way when the path is unclear. Join us as we uncover the secrets to navigating career transitions...

We are trying something new this week! We love thought-provoking books and often share book recommendations with clients. In this episode, we each reflect on one book which we've found inspiring on our journeys as lawyers and coaches.  0m50s - we discuss the experiment of the previous episode "The Power of Pets in Stress Management" 8m00s - Frieda talks about the book "Four Tho...

It is Mental Health Awareness month. Join us as we dive into the science-backed benefits of spending time with a pet, from reducing anxiety and depression to helping you balance your energy for a more sustainable career. Frieda's dogs even take part in her coaching sessions! As always, we finish with an experiment and you can already guess that it will involve spending time with animals! We w...

In this episode, Frieda and Anya explore the often-overlooked benefits of conflict. While most people view conflict as something negative to be avoided, we argue (no pun intended!) that conflict can be a powerful tool for positive change and improving relationships. Join us as we delve into how conflict can help us better understand ourselves and others, build stronger relationships, and improve w...

In this episode, we explore the concept of choice in the legal profession. Lawyers are so aware of the legal rights, but how do we navigate the limits of our own autonomy, are lawyers truly in control of their own daily actions or are they following the rules set by the system? We'll talk about how our mindsets impact our daily choices. We will also touch on the concept of "power of choi...

Join Anya and I for the final episode of 2022 as we reflect on the good, the bad and the ugly of 2022! Reflecting doesn’t come naturally to a lot of people. Often, we just sweep the past under the rug and move on forwards without a second thought. However, it’s actually really beneficial to acknowledge our achievements, to understand our challenges and to identify the things we've learned abo...