February 1985 seems like a lifetime ago. That month my first column, Support DBE, but change existing program, appeared in Roads & Bridges. Think about how the world has changed since I wrote that first column. I did not have a cell phone, a Blackberry, a computer or even an ATM card. The world and your business have changed dramatically since. Think about when you bought that first computer, submitted your first electronic bid and submitted your first design-build proposal. Think about the first time you built a project in an urban area under intense traffic. Indeed, the way you do business has changed.
I bring up my first column in Roads & Bridges because this column will be my last one. When I suggested to Bill Wilson that I pass the torch to my former colleague and friend Larry Caudle, Bill said, “I am sorry to hear you are retiring.” I told him I am not retiring, I am actually working harder than ever, but focusing on new and different things. I am still practicing law, but I have cut back my practice. For the first time in my career, I am not taking on new clients. Just a few weeks ago, I received a call asking if I would be interested in handling a $30 million highway construction contract dispute. My hands were shaking as I replied I was not taking on matters for new clients.
Instead I am focusing my law practice only on clients I have served over many years. I also am focusing on teaching highway contractors and DOTs on how to avoid problems and analyze contract disputes, as well as conducting training and other programs for national and state highway construction associations and their members on business ethics, contract claims, negotiation and other issues the industry faces.
When I left Jenkens & Gilchrist in January 2005, I did so primarily to pursue another passion-motivating trek of energizing young lawyers, engineers and contractor managers on their career. While I lost the security of a regular paycheck, I believe I can make a greater contribution working with our next generation of lawyer, engineer and contractor leaders. Far too many in this group are burning out before they really get going. They do not have a clear idea of what they want to do with their career and life, and as a result they waste a lot of time.
I spend a great deal of time these days teaching professionals in their 20s and 30s how to focus on their career and life purpose; how to set goals that will energize them; how to focus on their professional and personal priorities; and what it takes to be successful. I also teach them leadership and teamwork.
I have written a business parable book titled Say Ciao to Chow Mein: Conquering Career Burnout. While the book follows a young lawyer who is ready to give up practicing law after only one year, I am told the principles of the book apply to all young professionals. You can learn more about my book and what I am doing by visiting my website at www.cordellparvin.com.
I have to confess that giving up writing this column has been difficult. It has been a part of my life for 22 years. Giving it up has felt a bit like losing a family pet. I only wanted to do it if I felt my successor would provide more value to readers than I have. Larry Caudle will give you great insights. I say this because Larry grew up and ultimately ran his family highway construction business before I convinced him to go to law school. Larry and I have worked on many matters together over the past 15 years. In each instance, my clients appreciated his knowledge of the actual construction and the business side of the issue. I am confident you, as readers, will appreciate Larry’s unique perspective.
