324. Are You Telling Yourself the Five Lies That Keep You Stressed as a Lawyer?

The Free Lawyer

In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary speaks with John Kormanik, a certified professional coach and former trial lawyer, about the challenges lawyers face, including stress, burnout, and misconceptions about success. John, author of "Break the Law," shares his journey from practicing law to coaching, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection and setting boundaries. They discuss the five lies lawyers tell themselves, such as equating busyness with success and the need to be available 24/7. John offers practical advice for overwhelmed lawyers, encouraging them to focus on personal fulfillment and redefine their metrics for success.

John Kormanik, Esq., is on a mission to help attorneys reclaim their purpose, energy, and impact. As a Certified Professional Coach, former trial lawyer, and author of Break the Law, John brings decades of experience from the courtroom to the coaching space, guiding attorneys to say “no” to burnout and “yes” to a legacy they’re proud of by realizing their potential and optimizing their life.

With 20+ years as a practicing attorney—including time as a Deputy Attorney General, law firm partner, and firm owner—John understands the unique pressures of the legal profession. Today, he coaches lawyers on reengineering their mindset, optimizing their systems, and rediscovering the joy in their work and life.

When he’s not coaching exceptional attorneys, you’ll find John experiencing the world with Michelle, his wife of more than thirty years, riding his mountain bike, or walking his yellow Lab, Olive.

Website: https://www.johnrkormanik.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnrkormanik/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnrkormanikcoaching/

Importance of Self-Reflection (00:05:21)
Uncomfortable Quiet (00:05:37)
The Key to Clarity (00:06:40)
Lie #1: Grinding for Success (00:07:29)
Lie #2: Busy Equals Success (00:07:48)
Lie #3: 24/7 Availability (00:08:28)
Managing Client Expectations (00:10:14)
Lie #4: Money Equals Happiness (00:11:47)
Lie #5: Asking for Help is Weakness (00:13:28)
Value of Coaching (00:14:20)
Evaluating Work Challenges (00:16:07)
Setting Boundaries (00:17:48)
Lawyers' Exhaustion Patterns (00:20:59)
Understanding External Stressors (00:23:00)
Recognizing Work Addiction Signs (00:24:50)
Lawyer Identity vs. Profession (00:26:11)
Potential Realized, Life Optimized (00:27:02)
Value Beyond External Metrics (00:30:25)
Finding Satisfaction in Law (00:33:26)

Would you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-free

Would you like to schedule a complimentary discovery call? You can do so here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-call