DIGITAL DANGERS
Mindful Technology Use for Lawyers
Mindfulness can help attorneys effectively cope with stress, as well as protect against the harmful effects of digital addiction. Mismanaged technology use can lead to strained relationships, damaged reputations, and even attorney misconduct. Our trainings and Continuing Legal Education courses leverage targeted strategies to help legal professionals mindfully manage their digital life and maintain their well-being. Contact us today to discuss your organizational needs and schedule a customized program.
MINDFUL TECHNOLOGY CLE
How to Take Charge of Technology - Ethically and Mindfully
Do you control your digital life or does it control you? Whether texting, emailing, posting on social media, or browsing the Web, many people are at the mercy of their digital devices. Indeed, Internet addiction is on the rise and is linked to mental health concerns like depression and anxiety. In 2019, the average American checked their phone 96 times a day. By the end of 2021, that figure skyrocketed to 344 times a day―a 3.5 times increase since the start of the pandemic. Those suffering from severe internet addiction are 8 times more likely to be depressed, 9 times more likely to have anxiety, and 14 times more likely to experience both of these mental health concerns.
Join attorneys Becky Howlett and Cindy Sharp as they present strategies designed to help attorneys manage and even unplug from the digital world - ethically and mindfully.
In this timely program, we will explore:
Dangers of digital addiction on mental health and well-being
Ethical ramifications of mismanaged use of technology, including relevant Model Rules of Professional Conduct
Suggestions for creating an organizational digital policy
Specific steps to mindfully disconnect from the digital world
IN THE NEWS
ABA GPSolo eReport
Attorneys Becky Howlett and Cynthia Sharp's monthly column in the American Bar Association's GPSolo eReport focuses on all aspects of attorney wellness and the real-life challenges of practicing law, including substance use, mental health, civility, and implicit bias.
We believe that generating open and honest conversations, including sharing our own personal struggles with mental health and addiction, will encourage others to seek needed help, as well as promote cultural change within our profession.
How to Mindfully Take Charge of Your Digital Life
Although technology can help us maximize our efficiency, we must be vigilant that our technology use isn't leading to addictive behavior that can severely harm our personal and professional lives. Here we explore the mental health dangers of Internet addiction, as well as targeted strategies to help you mindfully wield your digital devices in all aspects of your life.
A Mindful Approach to Email
Reactive email practices may unduly perpetuate anger and frustration leading to strained relationships and undesirable case outcomes. These simple steps can help you stay calm and cultivate conscious communications even in the face of emotionally charged situations.
RESOURCES
Grounding Meditation to Promote Calm
Attorney and certified meditation instructor Becky Howlett guides participants in a visualization mediation using the five senses. Grounding is a helpful technique to cope with distressing moments and calm yourself if you are experiencing anxiety, frustration, or traumatic memories.
Loving Kindness Meditation for Attorneys
Join our FREE Online Meditation Community for legal practitioners as we explore evidence-based mindfulness techniques to induce relaxation, boost concentration, and more.
Schedule: First Wed of the month @ 12:00 p.m. ET (~20 min)
All levels of experience welcome!