My Bar Story: How a Lot of Discipline and a Little Golf Went a Long Way

While I was as worried as anyone about passing the bar, I kept reminding myself of several things. First, I worked every summer during high school, college, and law school, and had a part-time job during college and law school, so I was used to a busy schedule. I was lucky enough to not have to work the summer I was studying for the bar. I didn’t have to juggle anything but going to bar prep lectures (yes, I’m a dinosaur who did bar prep back when there were in-person lectures and no online materials because there was no online!) and doing self-study and practice questions. I trusted that if I applied myself and followed the study guides, I would succeed in passing the bar. 

Second, I kept reminding myself to trust in the study techniques and disciplined approach that got me through law school and to have confidence that those skills would get me through this last hurdle of passing the bar.

Finally, I knew I couldn’t study 24/7 and that I needed to find some stress reliever to get me through the hard weeks ahead. While some (most?) people might not consider golf a stress-free sport, I started playing during the summer I studied for the bar. By maintaining a good study routine, I was able to fit in nine holes one day a week and 18 holes during the weekend. Because I walked rather than driving a cart, I had a couple of times a week when I was outside enjoying a nice walk in nature, even if golf can be a frustrating sport.  I always found that I came back fresher and could study more effectively after taking these breaks. 

My advice is, believe in yourself and don’t be afraid to give yourself permission to take a break. Finding that stress outlet will really help you succeed. Good luck – you can do it!

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