Self-Compassion and Freedom from the Inner Critic for Lawyers

As lawyers, it's easy to criticize oneself and others. What lies behind this "inner critic"? This presentation takes a scientific, evolutionary perspective on the inner critic to uncover how the inner critic was created, what purpose it serves, and how we can transform harsh judgments into skillful discernments in the legal profession. Elizabeth Pyjov guides attendees through an examination of psychological strategies and wisdom from ancient cultures to break free from the harsh inner voice, finding empowering ways to think about the past, present, and future. Attendees will receive tools to put into practice right away, as well as a guide for cultivating freedom from the inner critic in the long term. After examining the science of self-compassion, the session will end by looking at ways that attorneys can practice self-compassion every day. 

Learning Objectives:

1. Reduce procrastination and impostor syndrome for better legal results 
2. Build more effective relationships with clients and coworkers
3. Reduce burnout that attorneys often experience, leading to increased output
4. Sharpen focus and concentration in high-stress legal situations
5. Decrease overall anxiety, increase personal and professional resilience and improve attorney mental health