Minimalism can be a strange beast. Right now, my life’s possessions consist of: 1. one small tortoiseshell cat; 2. one (admittedly squished) wardrobe’s worth of clothes; 3. four blankets; and,…
Before you say Yes: 3 questions to ask yourself (And I’m not talking about marriage!)
Some academics do seem to be wedded to their research, but let’s leave the marriage metaphors aside. This post is all about choosing which academic work commitments you say ‘yes’…
Your alternative academic identity: learning the rules?
How do we make the ‘right’ career decisions in academia, and build our overall academic identity? I received an email from a colleague and this quote got me thinking: “all…
‘I’m busy’ part 2: it’s a problem
Last week, I wrote about two positive types of busy, but this week I am reflecting on the kind of “busy” that can really lead to problems. How do you…
Finding Your People: Mentors, Collaborators, and Guardian Angels
Who do you need? It is not always easy to get by in the academic world, especially when you are just starting out. I’m not one to normally question Simon…
‘I’m busy’ part 1: good kinds of busy
Following on from Kathy’s recent post on why you might have to be brave to say ‘no’ sometimes, I want to reflect a bit on busy-ness and how it can…
Saying No: Why it’s important to be brave
As we begin 2017, perhaps some of you will have taken a seasonal break from your work. Or perhaps you worked right through: it can be hard to take time…
Staying in academia: 3 things I find helpful at challenging times
Working in academia can be a tricky thing. As much as the work can be inspiring, creative, and life-changing, it can also be isolating, uncertain, and insecure. In fact, Piirus…
Writing about my research interest on expressive writing
In such a demanding and precarious society that we live in, it is not surprising to find that many of us are seeking for ways to enhance our mental health…
Dealing with the Darkness: How to find strength in yourself and in others
Sometimes our research can take us to dark and difficult places. In this guest post, Dr Kathy McKay shares her experiences and offers advice for finding the light. Last year,…