Dear Dad,
It’s trial week. The jury has been selected, seated, and sworn in. Opening statements are in about 2 hours.
A week of trial is a type of mental exercise I had never experienced before my first one. Imagine how tired you are running a distance as fast as you can. Gasping for air. Fire in your lungs. Now imagine that feeling in your brain. Pushing to evaluate as many small details as quickly as you can for as long as you can. Not to mention hoping your witnesses stay on topic, don’t get flustered, and even just show up.
Last weekend, I spent a lot of my time making final preparations for the week ahead. I reviewed records, re-read previous statements, and outlines my best arguments. Equally important, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen making food for the week, mapping out my exercise routines, and ironing 5 button down shirts.
I believe a successful week in trial, or any intense week in any field of work or life, requires precise preparation. I know this week will be chaotic. Decision fatigue will be reaching extreme heights. And failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
For a lot of my life one of my main focuses was athletic performance. In athletics it’s very well accepted that workouts and nutrition are directly related to on field performance. It’s actually quite amazing how much detail goes into playing a college football game. But remember the old commercial, “there are thousands of NCAA athletes and almost all of us will go pro in something other than sports.”
Eating well and consistent exercise routines do not just enhance athletic performance but also provides your brain and body energy to be a professional in something other than sports. This week I need endurance, shrewdness, and adequate energy to perform at my best. That’s why trial preparation includes almost as much self care with nutritious foods and exercise as it is does studying case files.
Elite performance outside the athletic arena still includes fueling your body with the right food and training. Whether you have an intense trial, board meeting, or a long day on the sales floor, hospital wing, or chasing the kids around, make sure to plan ahead and don’t squeeze out time for these essential ingredients of success.
With Love,
JSR