Angela Backhouse has always been drawn to challenges, which sparked her passion for a career in law. Growing up in a small country town, Angela took a bold step at 15, moving to Canberra to pursue her education. Her dedication led her to ANU and eventually to a successful legal career where she continues to stay ahead in an ever-changing legal landscape, all while balancing family life.
What inspired you to pursue a career in your field, and how did you get started?
I have always enjoyed a challenge, and a career in law was something that always appealed to me. I grew up in a very small country town where there weren’t many opportunities, so at 15, I left home and moved to Canberra to attend school at Lake Ginninderra College. I was able to achieve the marks I needed to get into Law at ANU. It was difficult because I was so young and living away from home, but my family has always been extremely supportive, and I couldn’t have got to where I am today without their encouragement.
What moment in your career are you most proud of, and why does it stand out to you?
Winning the Canberra Women in Business 2017 Businesswoman of the Year Award was a highlight of my career and an acknowledgement of my hard work and achievements. Running a business is extremely tough, and at the time, I was doing it on my own. You often end up focusing on the difficult challenges rather than the achievements, so it was great to be able to take a step back and reflect on what I had accomplished.
What advice do you have for young people looking to enter the working world?
It is important for younger people to understand that you can’t get far without putting in a lot of hard work and effort, and don’t expect everything to happen all at once. Also, don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is part of becoming a better person. If you can learn from your mistakes, figure out a better way to do something, and avoid making the same mistakes again, you will improve quickly and become a leader in your field.
Have you faced any major challenges in your career? If so, how did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge I think we all face is trying to find a work-life balance and keep our sanity at the same time. Work can take over your life if you let it, especially when you own your own business. I have three young children and it is really important to me that they grow up with supportive parents. I always make sure to be there for them when they need me, to show up to soccer games and dance rehearsals and the things that matter in their lives.
What are your top tips for creating a healthy work-life balance?
Set boundaries for yourself and stick with them. I try to turn off my computer on a Friday night and don’t look at it again over the weekend so that I can focus my time on my family and also let my brain have a break from work. It makes me feel very refreshed starting the next week.
Chamberlains Law Firm
Level 8 224 Bunda Street, Canberra City
