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Everything worth doing is hard - and, ultimately, that’s what makes doing hard things so satisfying. Building a legal practice is hard, and, yes, satisfying. If you think about all the work required to build a practice, it also feels overwhelming. But if you break it down into small steps, it makes it easier to get started. Once you start, you build momentum. And then your efforts start compounding. Let’s break this down.
Start
"The hardest part of any important task is getting started on it in the first place." – Brian Tracy
The first client call, the first networking event, the first piece of content - each "first" step feels daunting precisely because it carries uncertainty. But uncertainty isn't the enemy, inertia is. You don't need perfect clarity or confidence to start. You just need action. Every successful legal practice began with a lawyer willing to make the first uncomfortable step. Choose one meaningful task today - schedule that meeting, draft that article, or reach out to that potential client - and take action.
Build
"Momentum solves 80 percent of your problems." – John Maxwell
Momentum is powerful. It's what transforms isolated actions into consistent habits and eventually into tangible results. When building your legal practice, momentum might look like regularly attending industry events, consistently sharing insights on LinkedIn, or diligently following up with contacts. Each positive action builds on itself, creating a flywheel effect. Momentum reduces the effort required for future actions because you're no longer starting from zero. Lean into this momentum - recognize it, nurture it, and let it carry you forward.
Compound
"Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it; he who doesn't, pays it." – Albert Einstein
In the context of building your legal practice, compounding occurs when your consistent actions produce exponential results over time. Relationships nurtured consistently lead to referrals. Small, repeated steps to stay visible and build trust grow into a powerful reputation. A steady habit of learning compounds into expertise that distinguishes you from competitors. The magic of compounding is subtle at first, but over months and years, its impact becomes undeniable. Keep showing up, keep delivering value, and let compounding amplify your efforts into lasting success.
The formula is simple: Start boldly, build strategically, and let your efforts compound consistently. Not easy to execute. But definitely worth the effort.
Jay Harrington is president of our agency, a published author, and nationally-recognized expert in thought-leadership marketing.
From strategic planning to writing, podcasting, video marketing, and design, Jay and his team help lawyers and law firms turn expertise into thought leadership, and thought leadership into new business. Get in touch to learn more about the consulting and coaching services we provide. You can reach Jay at jay@hcommunications.biz.