Head Space

Calm productivity for academics

Tag: academic career development

  • Mustafa Suleyman (2023) The Coming Wave

    Mustafa Suleyman’s The Coming Wave examines the profound societal, political, and ethical challenges posed by emerging technologies like advanced AI and synthetic biology. Suleyman argues that while these technologies offer transformative potential, they also present unprecedented risks.

  • Tony Fadell: Build

    Build, by Tony Fadell, combines career insights and product innovation advice from the creator of the iPod and Nest thermostat. His book provides a blueprint for high-impact career choices, iterative development, and leadership, making it valuable for anyone interested in innovative design or who is looking for a radical perspective on academic career development.

  • Asking for help is a sign of strength

    Many academics avoid asking for help, fearing it signals incompetence. This reluctance often leads to longer struggles and missed opportunities for growth. Learn why asking for help in academia isn’t just acceptable – it’s essential for career development, and how building a network of mentors benefits both you and others.

  • Beyond research: Understanding the four types of scholarship in academia

    Many academics feel pressured to pursue traditional research careers, but scholarship encompasses more than just research. Boyer’s model describes four distinct areas: discovery, integration, application, and teaching. By understanding these different types of scholarship, academics can build more fulfilling careers that align with their natural strengths.

  • Navigate uncertain career decisions with small experiments

    When facing uncertain career decisions in academia, many scholars get stuck in analysis-paralysis. Discover how small, strategic experiments can help you gather real-world information to make more confident choices about research directions, institutional moves, and leadership roles.

  • Cal Newport: So good they can’t ignore you

    In So Good They Can’t Ignore You, Cal Newport argues that true career satisfaction comes from building rare, valuable skills rather than “following your passion.” For academics, focusing on skill development rather than elusive passions fosters control, mission, and fulfillment in higher education careers, where impact and autonomy matter most.