What has been your biggest challenge and how did it impact your career?
The biggest challenge I have faced in my career is one faced by all working mothers; that is achieving a balance of work and family.
Before I had my daughter, I had been an attorney for over ten years. As a young associate, my time was my own. I could be available at a moment's notice to change my plans to accommodate the demands of my work. The loss of the singular focus and flexibility that came with having a child was incredibly stressful. Every day needed to be perfectly orchestrated in order to accommodate work and child care. Added to the demands of my profession was the emotional pull of wanting to be "super mom" at home.
Family friendly work policies, and the ability to stay connected from outside of the office, have made juggling home and career easier. The organizational skills I developed have also translated to increased work efficiency and a greater compassion for my clients' personal situations. And that has benefited my ability to provide the most responsive service to my clients.

Dale Allinson is a partner with Certilman Balin Adler & Hyman, LLP, East Meadow, N.Y. Tags: