Hello, everyone—Kirk B. here. Today, I’m sharing a personal story that’s been a long time coming. For the past four years, from 2020 until March 2024, I was immersed in the world of civil litigation. During that time, I handled a wide range of cases, from debt recovery to complex construction disputes. The courtroom became my second home, and the thrill of building a case and solving a dispute was what drove me day in and day out. But as rewarding as it was, the demands of the profession eventually took their toll.
The Highs and Lows of Civil Litigation
For those unfamiliar with civil litigation, it’s a field that requires precision, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to the clients you represent. Every case—whether it involved debt recovery or construction disputes—was a puzzle to be meticulously pieced together. There was an undeniable satisfaction in seeing a case through to its conclusion, particularly when it involved significant stakes for my clients.
However, the intense pressure to deliver results, coupled with the long hours and high expectations, made the work incredibly taxing. It wasn’t uncommon for me to spend late nights preparing cases, sacrificing weekends, and missing out on important moments with family and friends. As much as I loved the work, the constant demands began to wear on me.
Recognising the Need for a Break
By the time March 2024 arrived, I found myself running on empty. The excitement that had once fueled my passion for the law had been overshadowed by exhaustion and burnout. I had spent four intense years dedicated to my practice, often putting my clients’ needs before my own. But it became clear that I couldn’t continue at that pace without sacrificing my well-being.
Taking a step back wasn’t an easy decision. In a profession where success is often measured by the hours you put in and the cases you win, the idea of taking a sabbatical felt almost counterintuitive. But I knew that if I didn’t make a change, I wouldn’t be able to continue serving my clients effectively. I needed time to recharge, reflect, and rediscover the passion that had driven me to become a litigator in the first place.
The Decision to Take a Sabbatical
In March 2024, after much reflection, I made the decision to step away from my practice temporarily. It wasn’t a decision I took lightly, especially after four years of continuous practice. But I realised that in order to continue doing the work I love, I needed to take care of myself first.
The first few weeks of my sabbatical were an adjustment. I had to learn how to slow down, to give myself permission to rest. It was strange not to have a packed schedule, not to be constantly thinking about the next deadline or the next court appearance. But slowly, I began to find peace in the quiet moments. I reconnected with hobbies I had long neglected, spent more time with loved ones, and allowed myself the space to simply be.
What I’ve Learned
Taking this time off has been one of the most difficult, yet rewarding, decisions of my life. It’s given me the chance to reflect on what’s truly important—both personally and professionally. I’ve learned that it’s okay to step back, to take a break when you need it. In fact, it’s necessary. The legal profession is demanding, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health or happiness.
As I approach the end of my sabbatical, I’m beginning to think about my return to the legal world. But this time, I’m coming back with a renewed sense of purpose and a better understanding of balance. I’m still passionate about the law, but I now know that in order to be at my best, I need to take care of myself, too.
Moving Forward
To all my fellow litigators and professionals in high-pressure careers: I encourage you to listen to your body, to recognise when you’re nearing your limits, and to take action before burnout takes hold. It’s easy to get caught up in the demands of our careers, but it’s important to remember that taking care of yourself isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a sign of strength.
I’m looking forward to returning to my career with a fresh perspective and a renewed commitment to both my clients and myself. Until then, I’ll be continuing to enjoy this time of rest, reflection, and renewal.
Thank you for reading, and I hope my story encourages you to take care of yourself, too.
With love,
Kirk B.