In this inspiring talk, a distinguished judge steps down from the bench to speak directly to the next generation of legal minds. Drawing from a lifetime of experience inside and outside the courtroom, the Judge explores the essential connection between law, life skills, and personal values. Far beyond statutes and precedents, true excellence in the legal profession demands empathy, resilience, ethical courage, and the ability to navigate complexity with wisdom and humanity. Through personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and candid reflections, this talk challenges law students to see their future careers not just as a profession, but as a calling — one rooted in service, integrity, and a lifelong commitment to justice. Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma graduated in B.A. (Hons.) in English Literature from Delhi University where she was adjudged the best student all-rounder of the year by Daulat Ram College. She acquired her LL.B. in the year 1991 and obtained LL.M. in 2004. She also holds a Diploma in Marketing Management, Advertising and Public Relations.During the course of her college, she actively participated in debates and other co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, and bagged various certificates. She was also awarded a Certificate of Merit by National Service Scheme, University of Delhi for completing two years of service as a National Service Scheme Volunteer.Endowed with excellent academic record at all levels, she became Magistrate at the age of 24 and Sessions Judge the day she turned 35.Justice Sharma is a trained Judicial Mediator and has successfully settled many cases through mediation. She was the Chairperson of the committee to examine the complaints of sexual harassment against women employees of Tis Hazari Court, Patiala House Court and Rohini Court at different points of time. During her service at the Delhi District Courts, she has presided over various civil and criminal courts including postings as Special Judge (CBI), Principal Judge of the Family Court, Motor Accident Claims Tribunal, Mahila Court, Special Court (Sexual Offences against Women) etc.In November 2019, she was appointed as the Principal District and Sessions Judge (North District) and later in March 2022, she took charge as the Principal District and Sessions Judge-cum-Special Judge (CBI) at Rouse Avenue Court.She has also authored several books for the benefit of public at large. Her first book ‘Don't Break After Break-Up’ aims to help women who have chosen to remain single or who have undergone a violent break-up of a marriage or relationship. Second, ‘Beyond Baghban’, addresses the possible emotional and financial problems that senior citizens may face at the hands of their children. Her third book ‘Tumhari Sakhi’ is an attempt to create awareness amongst women about their rights and the need to speak up against the violence faced by them. She has also made an attempt at fiction with her book ‘Love Full Circle’.Justice Sharma is a fellow of Commonwealth Judicial Education Institute, Canada.She was elevated as a permanent Judge of the High Court of Delhi on 28.03.2022. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx