Avoiding Burnout During the Law School Application Process

By Alice Foley, Director of Pre-Law Programming

As we find ourselves deep into September, the season of law school applications is in full swing. If you're like me and are starting to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and tired from juggling all the intricate pieces of these applications, take a deep breath and know that you're not alone.

In this blog post, I'm going to share my insights on battling burnout during the law school application process.

Understanding Burnout

Before we delve into strategies to combat burnout, let's define what burnout means within the context of the law school application journey. Burnout, in my layperson's terms, goes beyond regular tiredness. It's when you reach a point where you're utterly exhausted, and you can't summon the enthusiasm for things that usually matter to you. Burnout can have a significant impact on your productivity, personal well-being, and relationships.

Remember, you are not a failure.

First and foremost, it's crucial to understand that experiencing burnout doesn't equate to failure. Many of us in this process tend to be perfectionists, constantly striving for excellence. However, hitting a burnout wall doesn't make you any less capable of succeeding in law school or the application process.

Managing Burnout

Step Away and Prioritize Self-Care

When I sense burnout looming, my first instinct is to take a step back and breathe. Stepping away from the law school application frenzy is essential. Allocate time for self-care, even if it's just a few minutes each day. Self-care doesn't have to be extravagant; it can be as simple as taking a walk, doing a crossword puzzle, or reflecting on things I'm grateful for. The key is to engage in activities that bring you calm and joy while avoiding unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Lean on Your Support System

I've learned not to hesitate when it comes to reaching out to my support system — friends, family, or professionals — when dealing with burnout. Letting them know what I'm experiencing has been liberating. I've discovered that some of my friends excel in self-care practices and can offer valuable advice or ideas on how to recharge. Additionally, having someone who reminds me to take breaks and prioritize self-care has been incredibly helpful.

Don't Neglect Your Social Life

Amidst the intense focus on my law school applications, remind yourself not to entirely neglect your social life. It's understandable to dedicate significant time to academic pursuits, but isolating yourself from the people and activities that bring you joy isn't healthy. As I've come to realize, I'll regret missing out on those memorable moments with friends and loved ones.

Remember, It's a Long Game

Lastly, keep in mind that the law school application process is a marathon, not a sprint. While early applications are advantageous, you don't need to rush through the process at the expense of your well-being. Burning out won't lead to better application materials. So, it's okay to take breaks and prioritize self-care.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, experiencing burnout during the law school application process is not uncommon, and it certainly doesn't signal failure.

I hope insights remind you of the importance of self-care, leaning on your support systems, and maintaining a social life while pursuing your goals. By taking these steps, you can navigate the application process more effectively and ensure your mental and emotional well-being remains intact.

So, if you ever feel the need to step back and take a break, remember: You have permission to prioritize your self-care.