Recent Articles

9 Productivity Tips For Lawyers Who Use Evernote

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
March 22, 2011 08:00

They say an elephant never forgets.  The problem is that with so much going on in our law practices, we’re often the exact opposite of the elephant.  Tasks, phone messages, faxes and emails fly at us all day long and it makes it impossible to keep up.  We see something useful and promptly...

Two Time Management Systems For Solo Lawyers

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
January 14, 2011 06:00

As lawyers, we are constantly struggling to squeeze more time out of our days. I’ve found that the best way to accomplish this feat is to implement systems in our daily lives. Anytime you find yourself working on something over and over again, you should systematize the process so that it can be...

4 Real-World Steps To Implementing Inbox Zero

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
January 12, 2011 06:00

Inbox Zero offers lots of tips to clear your inbox. But busy lawyers don’t want a bunch of cute tips – we need a practical, step-by-step how to. The truth is that there is no single way to handle Inbox Zero, and I think that’s because everyone’s mind works in a different...

Four Steps To Getting Started With Inbox Zero

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
January 10, 2011 07:00

When it comes to the Inbox Zero concept, there are two distinct camps – those who get it, and those who don’t. In order to apply the concept, you’ve got to realize that this is not about a specific methodology or even about maintaining a completely empty inbox at all times.  It’s a...

Getting Things Done, Legal Edition: Collection Phase

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
January 05, 2011 06:00

When I first read about Getting Things Done and how it may be the lawyer’s best friend, I wanted to jump in with both feet and a shovel. My office was a mess, my apartment even worse. The problem was that I didn’t know where to begin. I know we’ve talked about the steps...

Rescuing The Lawyer From Email Hell With Inbox Zero

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
January 03, 2011 06:00

The fact that I’m a lawyer got translated into meaning that I get more email each day than is possible to read and act on.  And I know I’m not alone, am I?  Between legitimate emails from clients and colleagues, mailing lists, fax-to-emails, voice-mail-to-emails, and the inevitable...

How A Solo Can Dress For Success On The Cheap

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
December 31, 2010 06:00

Look at a lawyer in court and you make an assumption.  Success equals well-dressed.  You may think yourself able to look above the tailoring of the suit, but the truth remains that poor clothing choices makes it an uphill battle for even the finest lawyer.  As a solo, you need to make the right...

5 Steps To Banishing Procrastination

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
December 29, 2010 06:00

I’m the king of getting things done tomorrow.  Always have been, likely always will be.  If something can be tossed off until a future time, so much the better for me. My comfort is that every lawyer struggles with procrastination now and again.  It makes us inefficient, unproductive, and...

How To Make A Solo Law Office Feel Bigger

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
December 27, 2010 06:00

I always dreamed of a huge office and a plush leather sofa on which to take afternoon naps.  I fantasized about spaces so big I could get lost in it.  Cubicles, rooms, conference areas and a big kitchen. Then I became a lawyer and realized that these things cost money.  I also woke up to... I...

The Secret To Being A Successful Lawyer

Sheryl Sisk Schelin
December 22, 2010 07:06

He’s an ass-kisser. She’s just lucky. I never catch a break. Some guys have all the luck. (Apologies to Rod Stewart) Bullshit.  Successes are not born, they’re made.  See that lawyer who just won the verdict that got plastered on the front cover of the bar journal?  The attorney...