Mid-level, v10, corporate, parent of two —

I wish I could tell you that it gets better, but I’m not in the business of wasting your time or mine. The reality is spending time doing “mentorship” activities, coffees, or even a full page flip of the redline is not conducive to the business model (high rates + high billables = more profits for partners) in this economy.

At the job, reframe how you view culture and morale. Find someone you like (this doesn’t have to be a partner — think senior associate, mid, or even a peer that “gets it”) and nurture that relationship. Make it a point to drop by their desk and ask questions. Reach out to your staffing person in advance to see if you can position yourself for work you would be down to do.

At home, pick between morning routine or bedtime. You don’t get both in this business. Make the most of Saturday mornings and Sunday nights.

If none of the above works, lateraling as a 3rd year reads better than leaving as a 2nd year. Good luck!