Notes To My (Legal) Self Season 4, Episode 11: It's Ok to Stop Trying to Have It All (with Adele Tegger)
Welcome to another episode of Notes to My (Legal) Self, where we delve into the heart of what it means to be successful in the complex and demanding world of in-house legal practice. Today, we're joined by Adele Tegger, a seasoned attorney with over two decades of experience, currently serving as the Senior Legal Counsel in the Employment Law Group at Western Digital. Throughout her career, Adele has crafted a path that champions work-life balance over traditional career progression, challenging the pervasive notion that climbing to the top is the only marker of success.
In our conversation, Adele shares her insights on the pressures of the legal profession, where the drive for the next promotion or big client often overshadows personal happiness and fulfillment. She advocates for a redefinition of success—one that allows individual lawyers to thrive in their roles without the constant chase for a higher title. Adele's journey through various prestigious companies and her decision to sometimes work part-time illuminates a different model of legal practice that prioritizes personal well-being and community involvement over conventional achievements.
You will take away profound lessons from Adele’s experiences, particularly the importance of defining success on one's terms. The learning outcomes from this episode include:
- Understanding the value of personal well-being in the legal profession and its impact on professional effectiveness.
- Strategies for negotiating non-traditional career paths that align with personal values and life circumstances.
- Insights into maintaining a balanced life while fulfilling demanding professional roles and how this balance can lead to sustained career satisfaction.
Whether you're a law student feeling the weight of future decisions, a legal professional questioning your career trajectory, or anyone in between, Adele’s story serves as a reminder that being a great lawyer also means being a fulfilled individual outside the courtroom or office. Join us as we explore how embracing a balanced life can lead to personal happiness and professional excellence in the legal field.