Re-entry into most any job after a vacation is hard, but sometimes coming back to your diss can be particularly punishing.
Your mind is still in that faraway (or close by) place, and you’re feeling not only unsettled, but more than a little resistant to the writing.
Next time—plan for your return.
If you’re taking off for a few days now, here is what to do before you leave:
1. Clean your desk so that you can see a clear space.
There’s nothing worse than coming back to a desk covered with piles of who-knows-what.
2. Decide how you will spend the day of your return.
One client decided that the first day after her holiday would include quickly unpacking and checking her mail. She had arranged to have comments waiting for her when she returned, but she decided she would look at them the following day.
3. Plan the first week of writing, with particularly careful notes for your first writing session. You can always tweak those plans upon return, but it’s important to know that you’re in control and that you’re returning to a specific, manageable task.
5. Decide if you want to take the notes for your first day of writing with you on your trip. If you take them, you don’t have to look at the notes, but you will know they’re available should you need to reassure yourself.
6. When you take your work with you when you go on vacation, do you really plan to do it? If you feel you must take work along, then plan exactly what you can do. What are some small tasks? Make a list of tasks and decide in advance when you will make time to take care of the first item on the list. Do at least one item on your list. If you can’t absolutely commit to doing at least one item, don’t bother with a list. Just enjoy your holiday!
Have fun!
All the best,
Nancy
P.S. You’re having trouble getting back into your writing? How could you prepare for your return? I’d love to hear from you.
Nancy Whichard, Ph.D., PCC
Your International Dissertation and Academic Career Coach
www.nancywhichard.com
www.dissertationbootcamp.net
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