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Calm productivity for academics
Category: Building Momentum
Presenting research without over-reaching
Academic presentations sometimes tempt us to overextend our research claims. Instead, articulate specific contributions accurately by presenting findings within their proper scope, using precise language that matches your evidence, and acknowledging limitations transparently. This approach demonstrates scholarly integrity while still effectively communicating your work’s genuine value to colleagues.
Crafting engaging academic presentations
Creating effective academic presentations requires understanding your audience, establishing clear motivation, and simplifying visual elements. Practice thoughtfully to build confidence, especially when presenting in a non-native language. By focusing on clarity and engagement, researchers can successfully share their work in ways that resonate across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
[Note] Write daily with shared goals
“One study suggests that academics who write daily and set goals with someone weekly write nearly ten times as many pages as those without regular writing habits.” – Pat Thomson
The power of lowering your standards
Rigid “every day” habits often fail due to psychological pressure. A more forgiving “daily-ish” approach paradoxically leads to better consistency. By lowering perfectionist standards in academic work—writing, email, reading, and planning—you create mental space for meaningful progress while being kinder to yourself.
[Note] Build a life around mastery and mattering
“…we live in a world full of options for mastery and mattering. Unfortunately, the cultural current is flowing strongly in the opposite direction. Few people—perhaps nobody, unless you live in a monastery—are immune to the vicissitudes of modern life. But most of us have at least some agency to fight back with our actions. The…
[Note] Can parents in academia “Have it all”
“…how can we presume that parenthood detracts from one’s professionalism, when, in reality, it often amplifies it?”
[Note] Why do we all work such long hours?
“So with the sector facing yet another financial crisis, do we all just get on the grindset straight away? Put your snowflake-y demands for a work-life balance on the back burner. Take one for the team. Pull that working weekend, that all-nighter. Let’s face it, you’re not even going to do anything as a result…
Stop using email as a to do list
Using your email inbox as a to do list seems convenient but creates a chaotic system where other people’s priorities dictate your workflow. Learn how to separate email communication from task management with a simple approach that helps academics regain control of their daily priorities.
Schedule personal time first, work second
Most academics make the mistake of scheduling work first and trying to fit life around it. Discover why reversing this approach is key to achieving better academic work life balance. Learn how prioritising personal commitments in your schedule can lead to more focused and productive work hours.
Using a “do not do” list for work-life balance during breaks
Breaking the cycle of using academic breaks to catch up on work? Create a “do not do” list instead of a to-do list. Learn how to maintain academic work-life balance during breaks by setting clear boundaries, avoiding work email, and embracing genuine rest without guilt. Your future self will thank you.