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There are two types of people in the world.
The first type of person goes through life looking at the lives of others with jealousy, animosity and resentment. They view the world as a place that highlights what they lack and they view themselves as victims.
The second type of person goes through life with gratitude. They are thankful for what they have. They believe they are blessed by their ability to earn a living and they are grateful for everything and everyone that comes into their lives.
Which of these people do you think attracts more clients as a lawyer?
It should come as no shock that people who fall into the second category are happier than people who fall into the first category. And while it seems natural that happiness and gratitude are linked together, generally, we do not recognize the correlation of these two emotions within our own lives.
A while ago I had the opportunity to meet Dr. Martin Seligman. Dr. Seligman is affectionately known as “The Father of Positive Psychology”. His work has proven that people who express their gratitude are happier, healthier and live longer lives. They are also more fun to be around and more attractive. It seems that focusing on what is going RIGHT is better for us than focusing on what is going WRONG.
It is in that spirit, the spirit of self interest, that I want you to get a pen, sit down and make a list. The list should consist of all the things in your life for which you are thankful. Your list should contain at least seven items. You can write a new list each day or you can review the same list over and over again. Read through your list at least three times each day: When you wake up, when you eat lunch and immediately before you go to sleep. Share your list with your spouse or significant other.
The more you express your gratitude, the happier you will be. The happier you are the more attractive you become. People like to be around happy people. If you want to attract more clients, be grateful for the clients you already have.
Below are seven things I am thankful for today:
Family: My wife and I have a beautiful two year old son and we are expecting a daughter in 2011. Their love and support help make me the person I am and for that, I am truly grateful.
Friends: Friends who stick with you through good times and bad are truly a treasure. I am blessed with more than my share and I am proud to say I need every one of them.
Clients: The people I speak with weekly, monthly or a few times a year who have invested in me and have helped me put food on our table. I thank you all for your faith, trust and support.
Contractors: Rainmaker Lawyer Consulting does not have an army of employees. We have a network of over 40 contractors who make things happen. This includes everyone from the accountant to the web designer. Without them our company would not exist.
Keyboard, Mouse and Computer: My whole business starts and ends with words on a page. If I did not have these tools it would be difficult for me to make a living.
My Unwashed Honda Pilot: It gets me where I am going. I do not believe in spending a year of college tuition on a car. And I do not believe in spending money at the car wash when I live in a place that has rainfall six days per week. What does this say about me? I think it says I am about what’s inside and not about the wrapping.
You: I am thankful you have joined me on this journey to build a better law firm. I hope that some days I make you laugh, some days I make you angry and most days I make you think.
Take some time right now and list the seven things you are thankful for. They can be small things or big things. The point is to express your gratitude. You will be amazed at how it improves your attitude and that, in turn, will improve your ability to attract more clients as a lawyer.