Are you running from something—or toward something better?
If you’re exploring a career transition for in-house lawyers, this question hits hard. Many legal professionals feel the weight of long hours, nonstop pressure, and that creeping sense of burnout. But moving forward means more than just leaving stress behind—it’s about building a career that pulls you toward something meaningful.
In a conversation with Heather Stevenson, Chief Legal Officer at Torrens Global Education Services, we explored this shift in mindset: from escaping the stress to designing a career that excites and motivates you. Because here’s the truth—if you only focus on what’s pushing you away, you may end up in a new role with the same old frustrations.
Watch the full conversation with Heather Stevenson here:
Push vs. Pull: The Mindset Shift Behind Every Career Transition for in-house lawyers
It’s easy to identify “push” factors—burnout, limited growth, toxic environments. They demand action. But if you base career decisions only on what you want to avoid, you’re likely to repeat the same cycle.
True change begins when you consider the “pull” factors—work that energizes you, challenges that inspire you, and roles that align with your values. For in-house legal professionals, this is especially important. The legal function is evolving, and there’s more space than ever for legal to lead, not just support.
By focusing on what pulls you forward, you can shift from reactive decisions to strategic ones—and design a legal career that’s both fulfilling and future-ready.
What a Career Transition for In-House Lawyers Really Looks Like
Let’s be honest: many lawyers fall into roles based on prestige, stability, or a sense of obligation. But when was the last time you asked what you actually want?
Maybe you want to work in a company where legal tech is embraced, where your opinion helps shape strategy, and where legal operations are built for efficiency, not exhaustion. Maybe you’re looking for career development as in-house counsel—mentorship, leadership training, or a path to becoming general counsel.
This reflection isn’t indulgent. It’s essential. When you identify the work and environments that bring out your best, you stop settling and start shaping your own path.
Evolving Roles: Why In-House Counsel Should Lead With Purpose
The role of in-house counsel is no longer just about saying “no” to risk—it’s about helping the business move forward with confidence. Legal is expected to be collaborative, data-driven, and tech-enabled. And that means legal professionals who embrace innovation are better positioned for influence and growth.
If your current role isn’t supporting that evolution, it might be time to ask: is this job holding you back from becoming the legal leader you want to be?
There are more resources than ever—career coaching, mentorship, legal ops communities—that support growth for corporate counsel ready to step up.
What’s Next for You?
If you’re thinking about what’s next, don’t just focus on the exit. Focus on the vision. Ask yourself what type of work feels meaningful, what leadership style inspires you, and how you want your legal career to evolve.
This is your chance to transition with intention—and become not just a lawyer, but a leader with purpose.
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At Notes to My (Legal) Self®, we’re dedicated to helping in-house legal professionals develop the skills, insights, and strategies needed to thrive in today’s evolving legal landscape. From leadership development to legal operations optimization and emerging technology, we provide the tools to help you stay ahead.
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