Lawyers and the C-Word: Confronting Change with Storytelling, Community, and Learning

Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change

Storytelling is one of the oldest and most powerful tools we must bridge the gap between fear and understanding. As lawyers, we’re trained to construct narratives for others—whether it’s persuading a judge or advising a client—but we often hesitate to turn that lens inward. This hesitation, rooted in a fear of vulnerability, prevents us from fully embracing the potential of storytelling to humanize ourselves and inspire change in others. Yet, it’s precisely this vulnerability that makes storytelling so impactful. 

Sharing personal stories, particularly about struggles and uncertainties, can open doors to connection and collaboration. Early in my career, I was reluctant to admit when I didn’t understand something, especially in legal technology. I feared it would make me seem less competent. But when I began sharing my experiences, I found that others shared the same fears. For example, when I wrote about my missteps with AI tools—like choosing solutions that didn’t fit my team’s needs—I expected criticism. Instead, I received messages from others who had made similar mistakes. My honesty encouraged them to share their own challenges, and we started learning together.

Fear of judgment often stops lawyers from telling their own stories, but stories don’t need to be perfect to be powerful. Talking about failures or uncertainties normalizes those experiences. For instance, when a litigation team shares how they adapted their strategy mid-trial after facing setbacks, it inspires others to embrace adaptability and resilience. Stories create safe spaces to discuss not just successes but also missteps, fostering an environment where growth becomes possible.

On a broader level, storytelling builds empathy by reminding us of shared experiences. In law, where fear of failure often looms large, storytelling can break through that fear. When I share a story about a moment of professional doubt or a hard-earned success, I’m not just talking about myself—I’m inviting others to reflect on their own journeys. A single story can show that we’re all navigating similar challenges and that taking risks and learning from them is valuable.

If you feel uncertain or afraid of change, start by telling your story. It doesn’t have to be public; it can be a conversation with a trusted colleague or mentor. What matters is taking that first step toward dialogue. Stories have the power to move us past fear, showing us we’re not alone and that change is both possible and necessary.

Community Building: The Foundation for Collective Growth

If storytelling connects us on an individual level, community building connects us collectively. Yet, building a community often means overcoming resistance to change and the instinct to avoid exposing our vulnerabilities. As lawyers, we’re conditioned to appear self-sufficient, but the reality is that none of us can navigate the complexities of modern legal practice alone. Communities offer support systems and spaces to innovate and grow together.

One of the greatest barriers to joining or building a community is the fear of not knowing enough. Early in my career, as I explored legal operations, I hesitated to join professional groups. I worried I didn’t have enough expertise to contribute. “What if I can’t answer their questions?” I thought. But when I finally joined a legal operations community, I realized these groups weren’t about showcasing knowledge—they were about sharing challenges and finding solutions together.

Strong communities thrive on inclusivity. Every member brings value, regardless of their experience level. For example, in a forum on legal technology adoption, some participants may be seasoned experts, while others are just beginning. The diversity of perspectives makes the discussions richer. This kind of collaborative environment helped me feel comfortable sharing struggles and learning from others.

Resistance to change often keeps lawyers from engaging with communities, especially in a field steeped in tradition. Many lawyers I’ve met hesitate to comment on posts or share opinions for fear of appearing uninformed. But in my experience, even tentative contributions can spark innovative ideas. In legal operations, for instance, community-driven discussions have led to breakthroughs in workflow efficiency and cross-department collaboration. By participating, I’ve not only gained insights but also contributed to broader changes in the profession.

Fear of judgment or rejection is another common barrier, but it’s one we must overcome. Whether it’s attending a conference, joining an online forum, or simply starting a conversation with a colleague, the first step is always the hardest. Once you take it, you’ll find that communities are some of the most welcoming spaces in our profession. They remind us that we’re not alone in facing challenges, and that collective effort can lead to greater success than we could achieve on our own. 

Education: Empowering Professionals to Innovate

Education is one of the most powerful tools we must overcome fear and resistance to change. Yet, many legal professionals view it with hesitation, particularly when it involves new technologies or practices. In a field that values expertise, admitting gaps in knowledge can feel risky. But embracing education—both as a learner and as a teacher—is essential to growth.

One of the most common fears I hear when introducing new tools like generative AI is the fear of being left behind. Lawyers tell me, “I’m too far along in my career to learn this now,” or “What if younger colleagues outpace me?” These fears are understandable but misplaced. Education isn’t about starting with all the answers—it’s about a willingness to learn. When I first encountered AI, I knew little about the technology. I learned by asking questions, making mistakes, and exploring resources, and that process ultimately equipped me to teach others.

Education works best when it’s practical and relevant. For example, when training teams on workflow automation tools, I don’t start with technical details. Instead, I focus on the problems they’re facing—like managing email overload or streamlining document reviews—and show how the tools can help. This approach makes learning less intimidating and more immediately valuable.

Education is also about building confidence and curiosity. Some of the most impactful learning happens in informal settings, like a lunchtime training session where colleagues feel comfortable asking questions and experimenting. These environments foster camaraderie and make learning a collaborative process. They remind us that learning doesn’t have to be daunting—it can be engaging and supportive.

Fear of failure often drives resistance to change, but education can address this fear. Learning together creates a safe space to try new things, make mistakes, and grow. I’ve seen how a single workshop or hands-on session can transform individuals and teams, equipping them to tackle challenges with confidence.

If you’re hesitant to learn something new, start small. Take an online course, attend a webinar, or ask a colleague how they’ve handled a similar challenge. Education doesn’t need to be overwhelming—it just needs to be consistent. By committing to lifelong learning, we can overcome fear and position ourselves to thrive in a constantly evolving profession.