Thread by @bianca_oli_per

Two weeks ago I asked my fellow #AcademicTwitter:

How to cope with doing a part time #PhD and full time work in times of #COVID19?

Here are the tips I have received: a thread

#phdpandemic @AcademicChatter @careerconversa1 1/

"1. Work on your motivation. Why do you want a #PhD? " @4nn4nd4

It may help to create a mindmap of your own reasons and have it always visible. In my case, I like to write lists so I put a post-it at my computer with my top 3 to keep the motivation up.

#Motivation #phdchat 2/

"2. Manage your energy, not your time." @elfriesen

In times of #phdpandemic our energy may be very low. So, it is important to make good use of it.

@elfriesen suggests the @ProfessorIsIn and @kelweinhold
podcast on energy management: himalaya.com/careers-podcas… 3/

"3. Plan your work and break it into small tasks" @shelley1022001 @LauraSimRee

It is hard to tackle big tasks, in particular when we feel nothing can be achieved. Trying to break them into small tasks (and even smaller, if needed), make them more actionable.

#Productivity 4/

"4. Strengthen your ability to focus using the Pomodoro technique" @repinel @sec2013

Having small tasks, the challenge becomes to focus. The pomodoro technique help to concentrate your focus. I tailored it to my own use with 40min blocks rather than 26.

#pomodoro 5/

"5. Participate in peer support activities and writing retreats" @Tahani_iha @librarianmegs @inesbc

If it is easier to focus when you are not working alone, online writing retreats and peer support groups may be what we need.

#remoteretreat #acwri 6/

"6. Take some time to rest, enjoy time with family, and do some light exercises to clear the head" @RobinCecile @maeve01437575

Life is more than using our cognitive capacity. Save time, make time for your body and your loved ones. It may help regain much needed energy. 7/

7. If everything fails, do not worry. Take some rest and try again tomorrow

Whenever there is a tomorrow, we can try again. Do not try to push yourself too hard to the point of breaking. You are more important than anything. Take a good care of you. 8/

8. Remember. Whatever happens, you are not alone.

We are all passing through similar issues. So, consider talking with someone: a close friend, a colleague, or just try chatting on Twitter. As this thread shows, people always have great ideas. Take care. 9/

Thanks to all who shared their #phdpandemic thoughts and experiences! It's been very useful.

"How to cope with doing a part time #PhD and full time work in times of #COVID19?"

Have any idea that did not make to the list? Share it with us.

@AcademicChatter @careerconversa1 /10