Ep 182: What Are the Keys to Setting Professional Boundaries? with Nimat Lawal
We are joined by Nimat Lawal, a first-generation Nigerian-American and corporate counsel at O'Melveny & Myers LLP. We dive into her journey from Atlanta to Harvard Law, her unique experiences growing up in predominantly white spaces, and the pressures of balancing cultural expectations and personal goals. We also talk about her time teaching with Teach for America, the challenges of working in corporate law, and her passion for life and professional coaching. Nimat shares valuable advice on setting boundaries, maintaining authenticity, and building a life that is truly yours.
Meet Nimat Lawal
Nimat Lawal, a first generation Nigerian American, was born & raised in Atlanta, where she attended Pace Academy, a predominantly white private school, from Kindergarten through 12th grade. She attended Howard University in Washington, DC for undergrad and returned to Atlanta post-graduation where she taught 4th grade for two years as a Teach for America corps member. Nimat then went on to Harvard Law School, where, as the Community Director and then President of Harvard Defenders, she led and participated in student practice organizations providing pro bono legal representation to marginalized communities. Now in her sixth-year practicing law, she spent the first 5 years of her career as an associate at Cleary Gottlieb and is currently a counsel at O’Melveny & Myers LLP with a focus on corporate law generally and mergers and acquisitions specifically. Outside of the law, Nimat is extremely passionate about wellness and wellbeing, particularly as they impact Black women and young girls. She recently completed coursework for and is in the process of becoming certified as a life professional coach and hopes to use that platform to continue to foster spaces that empower us to create lives that are truly our own by showing up as we are, honoring and prioritizing our values (over societal expectations) and existing in our fullness.
Episode Highlights
Nimat emphasizes the importance of balancing work responsibilities with family life.
She discusses strategies for managing time effectively to ensure both personal and professional growth.
Nimat reflects on the challenges she faced, particularly as a woman navigating different industries.
She highlights the need for resilience and perseverance in overcoming these obstacles.
She advises seeking mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout one’s career journey.
Networking is highlighted as a crucial tool for building professional relationships and opportunities.
Nimat talks about the importance of maintaining and representing her cultural identity in her work.
She discusses how embracing her heritage has influenced her career and creative decisions.
Nimat encourages aspiring professionals to stay true to their values and passions.
She shares practical advice on navigating career challenges, including the importance of self-care and continuous learning.
Tweetable Quotes
“We are granted one life, we get one of these things, we don’t know how long we’re here for. And the happiest people in the world, I think, are the people who are living lives that feel like they’re their own.”