I'm free! (from the clutches of law school, at least).

Last month, I started working at a small firm in my hometown. I've now been there for long enough to know that the kind of law I've been immersed in is the type of work I'd like to continue doing for a long time to come.

It's stressful and the days are long, and I often bring work home. Both on nights and on weekends. I suppose it's a good thing I'm single and have no one to answer to, no diapers to change, and no one to worry about but myself. I don't know how some other young lawyers do it, but I for one, am thankful that my lifestyle is conducive to this type of work.

I have been trying to balance my dedication to my new (real life!) work with some of my more selfish goals, like trying to pay down my student debt, saving up for a condo, and planning for my eventual transition into opening up my own private practice.

It's all very daunting. I'm young, and I want to do all of the things that others are doing. I want to travel the world, experience new people and things. And I want to be unrestricted and careless with my time and money. But I can't afford either.

So, for now, I've resolved to spend my energy working at building a life that will eventually allow me to do the things I want to do, without the financial worries most people face. I estimate it will only be about 5-7 years before I can take a break and act my age. And that's a sacrifice I have accepted.