Consider taking on a new challenge this year. Richardine Singleton-Brown took on the challenge of Martial Arts to balance work and life.
Ms. Richardine Singleton-Brown of The Singleton-Brown Law Firm, LLC
I am a work in progress physically, emotionally and spiritually. Balancing my life is a challenge and I have had to consciously find ways to maintain my emotional, mental and physical health. I manage my law practice full time and also serve as a part-time Magistrate Judge in Charleston, S.C. The practice of Martial Arts has been an outlet for me for a few years now. I am currently a Green Belt in Rydo Karate and one day I hope to earn my Black Belt.
The work that lawyers do is so very important and necessary for the good of the people. We are accustomed to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders and must use our own psyche to counsel ourselves and strategize on cases due to the privilege and confidentiality required in our profession. We can’t just talk to our friends or spouses about our work day any more. We are forced to carefully manage our own thoughts and what we say in all aspects of our lives.
Additionally, not only do we need to take care of ourselves mentally and emotionally, we need to do so physically. Karate allows me to do all three. I am exhausted when I get home from work but I know that after sitting all day, I need to get in some exercise. For an hour in Karate, I run, punch, twist, kick, strike, all while completing a series of moves, known as Katas, to fight imaginary opponents. We also spar with each other as well. Trained by my Senpai, Theraun Mixson, I use the hour to burn every calorie (close to 1,000) to which I am able, in order that I may, give my all that is left after a long day to my husband and to our fur baby boys, J.D. and Justice, when I return home. Moreover, that hour, subsequently allows me to take care of the needs of my clients or citizens coming into the courthouse. The added benefit is that I learn a valuable skill to protect myself as well. I recommend martial arts to any lawyer or anyone in need of a complete workout. The benefits are priceless.