Write no Matter What

Dear students,

Some of you I had the pleasure of meeting, while others I know only by their names. I trust that you and your families are doing well in this moment of global crisis.

All of you are at different stages of your dissertation writing, a process that is often lonely, taxing, and disheartening. (I know that all too well!) One way to get a handle on these “demons” is to set aside regular time to hone your research tools and processes; to rethink and revise our strategies so that steady progress becomes a reality. 

With that in mind, I thought of checking in with you from time to time to share some tips. For instance, Rebecca Schuman, in one of her pieces for The Chronicle of Higher Education series on writing, suggests the following: “Summon 25 minutes of laser focus on your work, one to three times during your work day.”

I realize you may be thinking, “I can’t get any substantive writing/research done in 25 minutes!” Well I am staring at two books with my name on them that suggest it is possible. Why not try? What could it hurt? Sometime this week, when you’re in your office or workspace, do this:

• Turn down the volume on your cellphone. Close your email program.

• Close your eyes for two seconds and take a deep breath. Look a clock or set a timer and say aloud: “25 minutes. Go.”

• Then, either free-write something related to what you’re working on, pull up a document and tinker with it, or read and take good, responsive notes.

• After 25 minutes, stop and go back to whatever nonsense was occupying your day.

 That is so true! The absolute essential key is never to lose touch with your project, even if it is just 15 minutes a day. (Also see Bolker’s Writing Your Dissertation in Fifteen Minutes a Day). However busy you are, however crazy your life is, check in with your writing,  5-6 times a week, even if ever so briefly. Forget the idea of binge writing or waiting for some ideal time when you will have lots of free time. Instead, keep the juices flowing!

Stay safe and be of good cheer!

Yours affectionately,

Dr. J.