Welcome back to a brand new academic year! Whether you’re knee-deep in your PhD journey or juggling other academic pursuits with motherhood, I know you’ve just survived the back-to-school chaos. Hats off to you! Now, let’s talk about how we can make this academic year your best one yet.
If you prefer to listen to a podcast episode on this topic, please feel free to use the player below:
Setting the Stage for Success This New Academic Year
As we dive into this new chapter, I want you to remember something crucial: you are more than just a PhD student, and you’re more than just a Mama. You’re a Scholarly Mama, and that unique perspective is your superpower in academia. Embrace it!
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of conquering this new academic year. I’m going to share some tried-and-true strategies that have helped me and countless other Scholarly Mamas navigate this challenging but rewarding journey.
Time Management: Your New Best Friend
First things first: let’s talk about time management. I know, I know – it’s not the most exciting topic, but trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Creating a Realistic Schedule
The key word here is “realistic.” We all have those moments where we think we can do it all, but let’s be honest – overcommitting is a recipe for burnout. Here’s what I suggest:
- Use a digital calendar (Google Calendar is my go-to) to visually map out your time.
- Color-code different categories: work, research, family time, and self-care.
- Block out fixed times for non-negotiables.
- Everything else fits around these core commitments.
This approach gives you a clear picture of your available time, making it easier to say yes to the right things and no to the rest.
Maximising Productivity This New Academic Year
Now that you’ve got your schedule sorted, it’s time to make the most of your work hours. Remember, as Scholarly Mamas, we often have more on our to-do lists than hours in the day. So, when you do sit down to work, make it count!
One strategy I’ve found incredibly helpful is working in focused bursts. You’d be amazed at how much you can accomplish in a short, concentrated period. And here’s a little secret: you don’t need to chain yourself to your desk for 10-12 hours a day to make progress on your PhD.
If you’re struggling with productivity, consider joining a co-working space like Scholarly Mamas® FOCUS. It’s a supportive environment where you can work independently but not alone, with built-in accountability to keep you on track.
Setting Priorities and Boundaries
Alright, let’s talk about the B-word: boundaries. I know it can feel uncomfortable at first, but setting clear boundaries is crucial for both your success and sanity.
Identifying Non-Negotiables
Start by identifying your non-negotiables. For me, Friday evenings or Saturdays were sacred family time that rarely got moved unless absolutely necessary. This commitment helped me politely decline non-essential activities that conflicted with my priorities.
Remember, it’s okay to say “no” to departmental social events if they clash with your child’s school performances, ceremonies and events. Your priorities are valid, and you don’t need to apologise to anyone for them.
Being Open About Your Boundaries
Here’s a pro tip: be honest about your boundaries. Instead of making up excuses, simply explain that you have other commitments you’re prioritising. It’s refreshing, and people generally respect honesty and authenticity.
Self-Care: Not a Luxury, But a Necessity
Now, let’s address something that often gets pushed to the back burner: self-care. I can’t stress this enough – taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for your success and your family’s wellbeing.
Getting to Know Yourself
Here’s a challenge for you: peel back the layers of all your titles and accolades. Who are you beneath all that? What are your passions? What do you want to do with your life? These questions might seem daunting, but they’re crucial for uncovering your truest purpose.
Self-love is the most underrated success strategy out there. When you know and love yourself, you’re better equipped to handle the challenges that come with being a Scholarly Mama.
Stress Relief Strategies
Find what works for you when it comes to stress relief. Maybe it’s meditation, prayer, or mindfulness exercises. Whatever it is, make it a regular part of your routine. And remember, if things get overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Many universities offer free counselling sessions – take advantage of them!
Building Your Support Network
One thing I wish I had during my PhD journey was a strong support network of other Scholarly Mamas. That’s why I created the Scholarly Mamas community – a space where we can share tips, vent, and support each other.
Don’t underestimate the power of connection. Whether it’s joining a community like Scholarly Mamas, scheduling regular check-ins with a university counsellor, or working with a coach who understands your journey, having support can make all the difference.
Practical Considerations for Scholarly Mamas
Now, let’s get into some practical aspects of navigating academic life as a Mama.
Childcare Solutions
Childcare is often a make-or-break factor for Scholarly Mamas. Start exploring your options early – whether it’s paid childcare, family support, or government childcare schemes. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or take advantage of available resources.
Explaining Your Work to Your Kids
Ever wondered how to explain your complex academic work to your little ones? Try offering age-appropriate explanations. For example, I used to tell my boys that Mummy works to help others feel better, teaches others to do the same and is working on solving a big puzzle! It helped them understand that my work was important, not just for me, but for the world.
Quality Time Routines
Create special routines for quality time with your kids. No matter how busy I was, we always made time for bedtime stories, reflection on our day, and individual check-ins with each child. These moments are precious and help maintain your connection amidst the academic chaos.
Preparing for Academic Success This New Academic Year
Last but not least, let’s talk about setting yourself up for academic success this year.
Reviewing and Updating Research Goals
Take some time now, at the start of the academic year, to review and update your research goals. Use the SMART goal framework to make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of “progress on my thesis,” try something more like “complete data analysis for chapter three by October 15th.”
Staying Up-to-Date in Your Field
As time-starved Scholarly Mamas, we need to be efficient with our academic work. A you, this maybe keeping up with the literature in your field. Try grouping research articles and setting aside 30 minutes a day or every couple of days to skim the latest research. You can do this during your commute or while waiting for your kids at their activities.
A pro tip: start with systematic reviews or narrative reviews in your field. These papers have already synthesised a lot of information, and their reference lists can be goldmines for further reading and primary studies for your own synthesis.
Embracing Your Unique Journey in the New Academic Year
As we wrap up, I want to share a little story with you. Recently, I visited a part of Barbados whilst on holiday that I’d never seen before, despite living there for 18 years. We visited the Animal Flower Cave in the northern most part of Barbados and in conversation with the tour guide, I realised that my childhood in Barbados (I grew up on the West Coast building castles on the calm sandy beaches) was very different from that of the tour guide’s lived experience of growing up in Barbados (he grew up jumping off the north point cliffs into turbulent oceanic waves crashing into water 40 ft deep). This made me realise how people can have completely different childhood experiences even in the same small country.
Your Scholarly Mama journey is just like that – uniquely yours. Don’t compare your experience to others or hold yourself to unrealistic expectations. You can make this new academic year whatever you want it to be.
Conclusion: You’ve Got This!
Alright, Scholarly Mamas, there you have it – your guide to conquering the new academic year. Remember, flexibility is key. If a strategy isn’t working, it’s okay to pivot. Your journey is yours alone, and you have the power to shape it.
As you embark on this new academic year, be kind to yourself. Set those intentions, make those plans, but also be ready to adjust as needed. You’re doing amazing things, and I can’t wait to see what you’ll achieve.
If you’re nearing the end of your PhD journey, drop me a DM on Instagram – I want to celebrate with you when you cross that finish line!
Until next time, sending you lots of love and gratitude. You’ve got this, Mama!
Remember, these are our journeys of becoming!
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