Law is a profession rife with constant demands, whether that be around billable hours, client expectations, and meeting firm/organizational markers for success. Lawyers are driven individuals, who often seek a relentless pursuit of productivity and achievement. The result can often be difficulty winding down and switching off (if you get the chance). It’s common for lawyers to end up feeling heightened and anxious most of the time. It can even lead to burnout.

On Tuesday, May 6, during the Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Mental Health Week, the Law Society of Alberta hosted a webinar about Toxic Productivity in Law.

The webinar featured Annmarie Carvalho, a former family solicitor turned therapist, trainer and public speaker. She is the founder of TCC, a multi-award-winning therapy, training and coaching agency that specializes in ‘helping lawyers stay sane’.

During the webinar, Annmarie discussed topics including:

• What is ‘toxic productivity’?
• What contributes to it (clue — the causes are wider than you might think), including targets, the billable time system, approaches to leadership and performance reviews.
• How to create a model within a law firm where productivity and teamwork sit alongside wellbeing.
• Different models internationally for breaking through the toxicity and finding measures of contentment as a lawyer.

Webinar resources:

• • Toxic Productivity Webinar Transcript
  • Resource List – Toxic Productivity in Law
  • Presentation Slide Deck
  • Available Wellness Supports