Rest days; not just for workouts

Depending on where you are in your academic career, you may feel the pressure to always be working. There are no boundaries to our time other than the ones we set. But if we never rest, we can get burned out. So here’s your reminder to take a break and to set realistic boundaries. (Americans, I’m especially looking at you. 😊)

Have a nap after reading something heavy or writing something hard. Your work will improve.

Go for a walk if you are stuck or annoyed with a work person or problem. Nothing worse than lashing out and then regretting your response.

Enjoy an episode of your favorite show. Joy is an important part of the life journey.

If you have animals, take some time with them and appreciate their existence.

Take time for a hobby so that when the downtimes for work come, and they will, you aren’t stuck trying to remember who you were before you started working so hard.

Whatever you do, don’t let the studying, researching, writing, teaching, etc. become your everything. Even in the middle of a stressful season such as a PhD program or fighting to gain tenure, be sure to schedule blocks of time for yourself. The work will always still be there, so give yourself permission to set boundaries and then go out and do something other than work.

Peaceful naps and play vibes from the triplets today. ❤️