July 2018 | Anna Bowler, Senior Associate, Dispute Resolution, MinterEllison
I became a lawyer because …
...I was never a child who wanted to be an astronaut, or a firefighter, or a vet. I just always knew that I was going to become a lawyer.
I am really proud of …
…the professional relationships I have developed both within the firm, and with clients. I have built relationships which will endure for my career.
You can have it all …
…but you don’t have to have it all at the same time. Rather than trying to maintain a work/life balance, I subscribe to the practice of “leaning”. Sometimes you’re required to work late, and other times family commitments mean that you’ll leave early or work from home. Lean in, and lean out!
I am extremely grateful for …
…working in a flexible team, with supportive partners who recognise that there is a life outside of the office. This year I was able to work remotely from London for 6 months, while my husband completed a secondment. It was an incredible opportunity for us, and I’m so grateful that I could continue working during that time.
A key mentor who influenced my career is …
…my Mother. She was a busy lawyer, with 4 children under 5 years old! A real superwoman.
If I wasn’t a lawyer …
…I wouldn’t know what to do with myself. I dream of retiring to Sri Lanka and opening a Bed & Breakfast.
Before I started at MinterEllison …
…I relocated to Melbourne from Brisbane, in the middle of winter. At the time, I thought it was a big mistake. But I survived that first winter and I’ve never looked back!
The best advice I ever received was ...
...don’t sweat the small stuff (thank you, Dad). Although, I have to repeatedly remind myself of this advice!
One of the key legal initiatives I am involved in …
…mentoring junior lawyers. I remember how daunting the first couple of years in law can be. I love it when I see junior lawyers finding their feet, and beginning to thrive!
Outside of the law …
…I am a bit of a foodie. I moved to Melbourne to expand my career opportunities. It is a happy coincidence that Melbourne is the food capital of Australia.
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