Even Better Than A Law Degree (The Friday Ficks S5 E21)

Last weekend, we were in D.C. for my daughter’s law school graduation - a proud moment, especially since I stood in that same city with a newly minted law degree in hand 37 years ago.

But this isn’t about academic milestones. An even prouder moment came days later, in the most unlikely of places: a loading dock behind her apartment.

We were moving her out - a standard studio move, with one not-so-standard challenge: a sleeper sofa that required at least two humans and a generous dose of patience. She’d hired movers through a tasking app - reliable in the past - but this time, they canceled at the last minute. The vendor offered replacements…several hours later. Not helpful.

As we scrambled for plan B, the building’s two property maintenance workers passed by. My daughter explained the bind, and without hesitation, they offered to help. No fuss. Not expecting payment. Just two guys jumping in to make someone’s life a little easier.

Two hours later, we had packed the truck and were ready to hit the road.

The proud moment? When I spoke to those gentlemen privately, they said, “She’s a really kind person. Always has been. That’s why we helped.”

That’s the flex I want to talk about.

Yes, I’m thrilled she earned her J.D. But I’m even more thrilled she’s living something I’ve preached for years: Kindness isn’t weakness - it’s leadership.

The way you treat the people others routinely overlook says more about your future potential than any résumé ever will.

In law firms, as in life, the people behind the scenes keep everything moving. The ones who understand that early - who lead with humility and respect - stand out for all the right reasons.

She’s got a great head start. And if you’re leading others, or hope to someday, you can have one too.

Humility is the strongest flex, even better than a law degree.

Own the day. Own the weekend.

Carl