There is a difference between optimism and positivity, or at least the kind of positivity that tries to pretend that bad things never happen, or never happen to good people. I am an optimist. I read something recently that helped me clarify what that looks like for me. It's a bit like "It'll be … [Read more...] about Optimism in the face of uncertainty
Developing a Practice: Self-care
Self-care is not a luxury. Self-care is the foundation of everything else you do. You need sleep, good food, exercise, love, nature, etc. We could debate Cartesian dualism all day but you have a body and it needs to be looked after or you can't do anything with your mind.
Resting & recharging is preparation for the new academic year
I wrote this just before taking a 2 week holiday and mentioned how important it is to prioritize rest at this time of year. Fatigue impairs cognitive function. This is a fact. There is lots of research to back it up. It also contributes to a whole host of other kinds of ill-health. The fact that … [Read more...] about Resting & recharging is preparation for the new academic year
Your home office setup during the pandemic
I start and finish A Meeting With Your Writing with some gentle stretching. During the current circumstances it has occurred to me that you might be more tense and also that your office space may not be set up as well as would be ideal. While academics like to think of their work as mental … [Read more...] about Your home office setup during the pandemic
Emotional labour is real work
As I watch all the academic twitter conversations about transitioning to remote teaching and generally figuring out how we live and work in pandemic conditions, I see a lot of people being surprised at how tired they are. Emotional labour is a big part of why. It is easy to dismiss emotional … [Read more...] about Emotional labour is real work
Are you taking breaks?
Fatigue impairs cognitive function. In the planning classes I run in the Academic Writing Studio, I talk about the importance of sleep and rest. I suggest things like taking a break away from your desk to each lunch and/or do some kind of movement activity. I talk about doing stretches or … [Read more...] about Are you taking breaks?
