Embrace Uncertainty; Have The Courage To Ask 'What Makes You Happy?': Justice Surya Kant's Advice To Young Lawyers

Supreme Court Judge, Justice Surya Kant, recently expressed the importance of embracing change and the power of exploration in shaping the professional path for young lawyers. He stressed that lawyers should not be afraid of changing their career paths and reflect on what makes them happy.

Speaking at the convocation ceremony of the Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University, Vishakhapatnam, Justice Kant highlighted the need for young lawyers to accept change as part of a happy and successful life. He stressed that the professional journey of an individual right after or even during graduation will never follow a straight, predetermined path, but will be full of turns and self-discoveries. 

"You may have felt the pressure to choose a single, specific path and stick to it for the rest of your lives. This is a bit of a fib. The truth is, very few professionals—lawyers or otherwise—find their calling overnight. Your interests and passions will evolve, and as they do, your sense of purpose will transform. That is not a sign of confusion—in fact, I believe it is a sign of growth." 

Justice Kant further emphasised: "Many of you have changed your dreams mid-course, drawn to unexpected fields by a single lecture, a senior's advice, or a passing moment of inspiration. The world convinces us we must have all the answers, yet the wisest among us know that the journey of self-discovery is lifelong. What matters is not the rigidity of your destination, but the authenticity of your pursuit." 

He added that during this journey from law school to the legal profession, one needed to introspect on what truly makes one happy. It was crucial that individuals inculcate the ability to reinvent themselves and not be afraid of switching career paths to align with their true self. 

"Some of you may discover your passion in advocacy, some in corporate offices, others in teaching, public service, or something entirely unexpected. The magic of law is its permeability—its ability to let you reinvent yourself, to switch lanes, to start over. Do not be afraid of the uncertainty; embrace it. Celebrate yourself for having the courage to ask, “What truly makes me happy?”

How Uncertain Moments Of Life Shape A Confident Future : Justice Kant Shares From Personal Experience

Justice Kant, while reflecting on the early years of his professional journey, recalled a turning point that came just as he was about to appear for the judicial services interview. Having cleared the written examination, he was only two days away from the final stage when a High Court Judge, before whom he had recently argued and won a case, called him to chambers.

The Judge, who was also part of the interview panel, advised him against becoming a Judicial Officer, observing that he showed greater promise as a lawyer before the High Court. Though filled with doubt and anxiety, Justice Kant accepted the advice and chose not to appear for the interview. 

He expressed that after this decision, he did ponder whether he made the right choice. 

Years later, another moment of hesitation arose when he decided to pursue a Master's in Law despite already serving as a High Court Judge. The thought of balancing judicial duties with academic rigour left him uncertain. He shared that it was precisely these moments of self-doubt and trepidation that paved the way for growth. Embracing such challenges, he noted, became a stepping stone in his career. 

Underlining the importance of exploration and how the legal education should be seen a strength in the process of self-transformation, Justice Kant opined : 

" Allow yourself the freedom to wonder, to wander, and, occasionally, to start anew. The privilege of a legal education is not just the power to change the world, but also the power to change yourself. Remain true to your evolving self, and trust that happiness will meet you on roads you may not yet have mapped. Invest your energy in discovering new pursuits, creating opportunities, and, above all, remaining open-minded and resilient. The law offers infinite possibilities—be bold enough to try, fail, pivot, and succeed on your own terms." 

Reminding lawyers and fresh graduates of the need to build social support and flourish as a community, Justice Kant added, " The practice of law can at times feel adversarial and isolating. Too often, legal professionals put off time with family, delay friendships, and postpone self-care, thinking their work must always come first. However, the very moments you cherish most will be those spent among the company of loved ones, in quiet support and playful camaraderie. Trust me when I say that fulfilment in this profession is not found in isolation—instead, it flourishes in community and connection."