In this edition of Things I Wish I Knew, New York solo lawyer Joleena Louis talk about a recent realization she had in her new mastermind group.
I am part of an all-lawyer mastermind group. A mastermind is a group of peers who meet regularly to help each other navigate through business challenges using the collective intelligence of others, share business development tips and, sometimes, referrals.
It’s like combining the regularity and discipline of a networking group, with the power and accountability of a board of directors.
Ultimately, the group helps you anticipate and resolve challenges, makes sure you continue to progress towards your goals, and keeps you accountable to taking the actions necessary to achieve your goals.
This past week it was my turn to present my own challenges to the group.
There was a suggestion during my time on the “hot seat” that I am what’s getting in the way of my own success.
We were discussing my current dilemma: my practice is at the point where I could use the assistance of an associate, but I don’t want to be responsible for payroll.
I had many reasons for not hiring an associate, cost being a huge factor, but is the real reason just fear and anxiety? And if so, are those valid reasons?
I am very afraid of hiring someone and not being able to meet payroll. And frankly, I love the flexibility I have due to my very low overhead. But I can’t help but wonder if I am blocking my ability to earn more by not hiring an associate yet.
I’ve written before about my difficulty letting go of control and delegating. I have been working on this and I work with a virtual assistant and virtual paralegal on a contract basis and it has been great. I still don’t delegate as much as I should, but I have been able to get a lot off of my plate.
This is a step in the right direction, but I know there is more I can do.
I do think I get in my own way a bit, but it’s not necessarily a bad thing. I’ve made it this far by trusting my instincts and this is just a sign that I need to take my time and figure out how to grow my business in a way that makes me comfortable.
Luckily, members of my mastermind group gave me some great suggestions for alternatives to look into before deciding to hire someone full-time.
If you want to grow your business, you have to let go. And that is a skill I still need to work on.
