The Free Lawyer 344. From Burnout to Balance: Mastering the Art of Bending Time
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Michelle Niemeyer, a former attorney turned coach, about her journey through legal burnout and her transition to helping lawyers reclaim fulfillment. Michelle shares how chronic stress and overcommitment led to health challenges, prompting her to prioritize self-care and develop her "Art of Bending Time" framework. She discusses the pitfalls of traditional work-life balance, the importance of clarity and energy management, and practical steps for overcoming burnout. Listeners are encouraged to embrace holistic well-being, set boundaries, and find joy both in and beyond their legal careers.
Michelle Niemeyer is a speaker, coach and former attorney who teaches professionals how to bend time so they can stay sharp, productive and profitable – without burning out. After finding her way to burnout and back in her own high-performing legal career, Michelle created The Art of Bending Time, a framework that helps people connect the dots across work, life, and purpose to magnetize success and reclaim their joy. She helps businesses retain top talent, boost development, and keep their people energized and engaged – all while making the magic happen.
Onset of Burnout & Volunteer Overload (00:05:18)
Symptoms of Burnout & Misdiagnosis as Time Management Issue (00:06:29)
Political Campaign & Financial Struggles (00:09:54)
Financial Crisis & Law Firm Employment (00:13:04)
Autoimmune Diagnosis as Turning Point (00:15:52)
Rethinking Self-Care & Lawyer Wellness (00:17:57)
Transition to Coaching & Health Focus (00:21:25)
Final Legal Case & Full Shift to Coaching (00:23:42)
Critique of Work-Life Balance (00:25:30)
The Art of Bending Time Framework (00:29:15)
Handling Internal & External Time Sucks (00:31:30)
Gaining Ten Hours of Productive Time (00:33:32)
Early Warning Signs of Burnout (00:35:06)
Difference Between Time Management & Burnout (00:36:49)
Applying the 80/20 Rule & Delegation (00:37:52)
Connecting Work, Life, and Purpose (00:39:39)
Advice to Her Past Self & Burned Out Lawyers (00:44:34)
Hope for the Future of Lawyer Wellness (00:46:50)
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