Ask Ash: When work loses its appeal

I’ve increasingly become disillusioned by my work. During the pandemic I was able to reflect on my work-life balance and was fortunate to spend some quality time at home with my children rather than just rushing around taking them from school to clubs and then doing bedtime routines. However, now that life is back to “normal” I’m finding the fast pace of life again quite challenging.

Our department is under pressure to make efficiency savings, and I’m tempted to apply for voluntary redundancy, but I’m just not sure if I would want to do law again.

It has been a challenge for us all, adjusting back to the humdrum of life after such a surreal time. You are not alone in feeling the way you do, and there may in years to come be some form of medical diagnosis for this post-COVID adjustment period!

However, before embarking on any serious lifechanging decisions, I suggest you review all your options. For example, have you considered asking to go part-time instead? This would allow you to have more free time but also provide you with an income while you consider your future options.

Also think about what it is you are disillusioned about in your current role. Do you perhaps need a change of scene, or new challenges in law, or is it the idea of law that is not appealing? Having a law degree allows you to consider a variety of career options: you may want to pursue an academic route or perhaps teach.

Give yourself a little time to review your options, but whatever you decide, I wish you all the best!

“Ash” is a solicitor who is willing to answer work-related queries from solicitors and other legal professionals, which can be put to them via the editor. Confidence will be respected and any advice published will be anonymised.

Please note that letters to Ash are not received at the Law Society of Scotland. The Society offers a support service for trainees through its Education, Training & Qualifications team. Email legaleduc@lawscot.org.uk or phone 0131 226 7411 (select option 3).