Q&A with Dani Bryant, Forty Under 40 Winner 2021; Fasken Martineau DuMoulin LLP, Age 39
Who or what is responsible for your work ethic?
My parents. My mom works tirelessly when faced with a difficult task. My dad taught me how to focus and practice and that working hard can still be fun.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Coffee and Céline Dion.
What is the best book you would recommend?
Other than The Paper Bag Princess? A more recent read that comes to mind is Thanks for the Feedback by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen.
Now that you are (or are close to) entering your forties, what goals have you set for yourself?
Professionally: hone my craft as a lawyer and grow as a leader. Personally: the list is long but includes spending more time with family and friends, learning to sail and developing a new creative outlet.
What was your childhood career dream?
Professional dancer/actor, psychologist and math teacher.
Name your happiest place.
Outdoors on a mountain, in the woods or on the water.
What was your toughest business or professional decision?
Deciding to become a lawyer. Originally, it wasn’t something that I had contemplated for myself but it worked out well.
What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?
Take the scary path.
What is your best habit?
I try to get into the office early each morning (despite not being a morning person). I find that it allows me time to organize my thoughts before the buzz of the day starts.
Tell us one improbable fact about yourself?
In my creative life, I used to write and direct plays.
Best piece of advice ever received?
Be yourself, don’t worry what others think of you and enjoy a good laugh.
Biggest learning (about life or business) during the pandemic?
The importance of cultivating close connections with colleagues and friends, particularly when you aren’t together in person on a consistent basis.
What career highlight are you most proud of?
Making partner at Fasken and being able to work with and learn from some of the top lawyers in the country
