Since starting as a law student, the question - Am I really meant for this? - keeps popping into my head. It’s not just me—many people around me seem to wrestle with the same thought.
Law is demanding in ways that are hard to explain to anyone who hasn’t lived it—the long nights, the responsibility, the constant pace.
It’s easy to get caught up in the go-go-go and forget to pause and acknowledge what we’ve already accomplished.
Imposter syndrome is real. I’ve noticed how easy it is to compare ourselves to peers, to wonder if we’re keeping up, or to focus on what we could have done better. After writing the bar exam this summer, I caught myself doing exactly that—thinking about what I missed instead of celebrating what I’d already achieved. But the truth is—we’ve already done incredible things to get here. Taking a moment to reflect on that progress is so important.
Perfectionism makes this even trickier. As lawyers, we’re trained to aim high, leave no stone unturned, and get every detail right. But I’ve noticed that perfectionism often leads to worry, fear of mistakes, and feeling like nothing we do is ever good enough. I’ve learned to reframe this for myself: striving for excellence is important, but it doesn’t mean torturing yourself. Doing your best, while being kind to yourself, is the goal.
Another thing I’ve realized is that growth comes from putting yourself out there. At the start of last summer, I was nervous to ask questions—I worried about sounding unprepared. But I’ve learned that asking questions isn’t a weakness. It’s a strength. It shows you’re engaged and invested in learning the work. Other lawyers want you to succeed. Speaking up has become my reminder that I belong here and that I’m capable of becoming the lawyer I want to be.
In just a few weeks of articling, I’ve attended a motion, participated in discoveries, drafted affidavits, and will soon be at the Court of Appeal. These experiences are reminders that success doesn’t come overnight.
Success comes from showing up, working hard, and embracing the opportunities in front of you.
The path isn’t always linear. There are moments when I feel unsure, isolated, or out of place—but that doesn’t mean I don’t belong. Everyone’s journey is different. I’ve started to focus on taking care of myself, seeking mentorship, and remembering why I chose this path: to grow, to learn, and to surround myself with people who challenge and support me.
Articling is just the beginning. There will be tough days, but there are also moments that make this career deeply rewarding. By reframing what feels like doubt or failure and allowing myself to celebrate wins—even the small ones—I’m learning to trust that I belong here. And that’s how I’m slowly becoming the lawyer I’ve always wanted to be.
by Zlata B.