I say it all the time - kinda like a broken record, I know - but if you know your schedule, you can make smart decisions. You can say NO if you need to! Yes, it's great to be Scotty - the miracle worker - but if a request seems like it's not feasible, it's okay to say so. Perhaps offer a compromise (can't get that rough to you tomorrow, but I can on the day after... something like).
I love having my calendar not only in my head but on my computer, in my phone, on a paper planner AND a to-do list. (remember, I'm a redundancy advocate!)
Do what you can, pivot where you are able, and be willing to protect your time and personal space too.
You all know I love giving back... and I've been speaking at the local law school for many years now, sharing with the students who will be future litigators how they can work WITH court reporters to create a truly excellent record.
I love doing this - and if you have the chance, please consider doing it in your area. The "baby" lawyers appreciated it and the next generation of court reporters will too!
We all love rituals - girls nights, massages, regular workouts... but what about our working rituals?
Do you have any that ease you into your productivity? Perhaps alleviate any anxiety?
Our job as a stenographer (or captioners) is filled with stressors and if we can develop rituals for ourselves to help limit those stresses, think how healthy, happy, and productive we can become?!
I love this profession... and I love sharing it. Wherever you are, in whatever period in your career you find yourself, be an amazing advocate! Introduce people to this incredible opportunity for someone who loves English, the law, computers, learning... Be the little pebble that creates the ripple in the pond!
