What if the missing link in your legal career isn’t more knowledge, but deeper legal leadership self-awareness?
That question came to life during a powerful episode of Notes to my (Legal) Self, featuring Charlotte Smith—a former employment lawyer turned trailblazing leadership coach. Charlotte isn’t just another ex-lawyer with coaching credentials. She’s a pioneer in the legal coaching space, helping lawyers—from junior counsel to GCs—break free from rigid career molds, overcome perfectionism and imposter syndrome, and unlock a deeper, more satisfying kind of success.
After practicing in the UK and rising to partner in a mid-sized firm, Charlotte made the bold leap to in-house, and later, into coaching. Her experience on both sides of the legal world gives her a rare and relatable perspective, especially for in-house lawyers navigating complex roles with limited support. What stood out most in our conversation was her focus on something many lawyers overlook: legal leadership self-awareness.
Watch the full conversation with Charlotte Smith here:
Why Self-Awareness Matters More Than You Think
Charlotte believes that mindset—and our ability to understand and regulate it—is at the core of effective legal leadership. For in-house lawyers, who often juggle high-pressure demands across business units, self-awareness is more than helpful. It’s non-negotiable.
When lawyers take the time to reflect on their reactions, emotional triggers, and the stories they tell themselves in tough moments, they become more grounded. They lead from a place of clarity, not chaos. This internal work is what helps shift teams from what Charlotte calls “catabolic energy”—drained, reactive, resistant—to “anabolic energy”—energized, opportunity-focused, and resilient.
And this isn’t just theory. Charlotte has seen the transformation that happens when legal professionals begin leading with awareness. They become more than just trusted advisors—they become cultural changemakers, helping shape stronger, more responsive legal teams.
Even without billable hours or client pitches, visibility still matters. If you’re the go-to person for complex legal issues but no one outside your immediate circle knows it, you’re missing out on chances to grow. Personal branding for in-house counsel is about making sure your expertise isn’t just strong—it’s seen.
The Mindset Shift Every Lawyer Needs
One of the most relatable parts of our conversation? Perfectionism. Charlotte nailed how so many lawyers, especially those in-house, wear it like a badge of honor. But perfectionism doesn’t make you a better leader—it makes you a more anxious one. It limits risk-taking, stifles creativity, and fuels burnout.
Charlotte invites lawyers to recognize when this mindset is holding them back. Instead of obsessing over being flawless, she encourages focusing on what really matters: progress, honesty, connection. That’s where leadership grows.
She also touched on imposter syndrome, which—let’s be honest—hits almost everyone at some point. Her strategy isn’t to power through or fake confidence. It’s to pause, observe the thought, and ask: is this actually true? Most of the time, it’s not.
Coaching: A Safe Space to Grow
Coaching, Charlotte explains, is where lawyers get to reconnect with themselves. It’s not about fixing something broken—it’s about creating space to grow, reflect, and lead with intention. For in-house counsel, who often carry a heavy load without much outside perspective, this kind of support can be game-changing.
So, what’s the takeaway?
Legal leadership self-awareness is the foundation of every strong legal team—and every fulfilled legal leader. It’s how you stay calm when the pressure’s on. It’s how you build trust, navigate politics, and find meaning in your work beyond the next contract or crisis.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, second-guessed your impact, or wondered whether there’s more to this career than just “keeping things safe”—take a page from Charlotte’s playbook. Slow down. Look inward. Then lead forward.
Watch the full conversation here: Notes to My (Legal) Self: Season 2, Episode 15 (ft. Mel Scott)
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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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