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I graduated from law school in 2023 and immediately joined a disputes team based in Delhi. I have been working straight for the past year without any leaves, except for some public holidays. Most weekends are working, with days often ending at midnight. Although my boss and team are non-toxic, this doesn't seem to balance out the lack of a life apart from work.
I can't remember the last time I had a comfortable dinner with my family, who also live in Delhi, or the last time I went out with my family/friends.
I feel burned out and terrified of what my life has become. While I come from a financially stable family, it's not enough for me to quit and sit idle while looking for another job.
Is this how life at a firm is for everyone? Is there something particularly wrong with the way I think?
I am out of answers.
But law firms do tend to attract workaholics who only think about work and make it their identity. There are quite a few places like this.
Take a break, then try to find your next job. Reach out to people you know to get a sense of how the workplace is.
Chamber practice will be more suitable. They let you take time off.